In the early 2000s, Somta Tools made a decisive investment that would shape its technological trajectory for decades to come – the acquisition of one of the most advanced Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coating systems in South Africa at the time. This was more than a capital purchase. It was a strategic commitment to surface engineering excellence at a time when local access to high-end coating technology was limited. The system immediately positioned Somta at the forefront of thin-film hard coatings in the region.
From production support to technical capability leader
For many years following its installation, the PVD system primarily supported Somta’s core business: high-performance cutting tools. Production tooling – drills, taps, end mills and specialist cutters – benefited from advanced coatings that enhanced hardness, wear resistance, and thermal stability.
Selective commercial coating work was also undertaken, but the dominant focus remained internal, ensuring that Somta’s tooling met the demanding requirements of modern machining environments.
The coatings developed and refined during this period gave Somta a strong reputation for reliability and consistency – particularly in challenging applications where heat, friction, and wear resistance are critical.
A broader strategic vision
With the OSG Group from Japan becoming a major shareholder in Somta, the long-term vision for the coating division began to expand. While production tooling remains central, the strategic emphasis has increasingly included job coating for external customers across diverse industries. This shift required more than capacity – it required application-specific expertise.
To support this transition, Dr Jeff Ferreira, former Director of TD Coating Centre, was brought on board. His experience in commercial coating operations and application development has strengthened the team’s ability to adapt coating technology beyond traditional cutting tools.
“Together, the Somta PVD team has focused on refining processes, qualifying substrates outside of high-speed steels and carbides, and ensuring that coating adhesion, residual stress management, and surface preparation protocols are optimised for varied component geometries and materials,” said Ferreira.
Innovation beyond cutting tools
“One of the most notable developments has been the introduction of new coatings specifically engineered for metal pressing and forming operations. A TiAlCN-based coating system – tailored for high-load sliding and galling resistance – is showing strong performance in metal stamping applications. For companies engaged in high-volume presswork, where tool wear and adhesive transfer are persistent challenges, this development offers measurable improvements in tool life and surface finish consistency,” explained Ferreira.
“The move into press tooling reflects a broader understanding. PVD is not confined to machining tools. When correctly engineered and applied, thin-film coatings can dramatically influence productivity across multiple manufacturing disciplines,” continued Ferreira.
Serving diverse industries
“Today, PVD coating technology extends well beyond the machine shop. From military components requiring controlled surface properties, to injection moulding tools demanding wear and release performance, the scope of application is wide.”
“Somta’s capability now positions it to assist companies across sectors — not only by applying coatings, but by collaborating on surface engineering solutions tailored to specific operational demands.”
Looking forward
What began in the early 2000s as a bold investment in advanced coating equipment has evolved into a mature, technically capable surface engineering platform. By combining world-class equipment, international partnership alignment, and experienced leadership, Somta’s PVD division is entering a new phase – one that balances production excellence with commercial collaboration.
“Surface engineering is no longer just a supporting function. At Somta, it is becoming a strategic enabler for South African industry,” concluded Ferreira.
For further details contact Somta Tools on TEL: 011 390 8700 or visit www.somta.co.za
