FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bond Technologies’ CW-15 Canister Welder Competes in “Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana” Contest –
Vote to Support Innovation in Nuclear Waste Disposal
[Elkhart, IN –Nov. 4, 2024] – Bond Technologies, a leader in pioneering solid-state welding technology, is
thrilled to announce that our CW-15 Canister Welder has been selected to compete in the Indiana
Chamber’s “Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana” contest. The first round of voting is open now and ends on
November 5. We invite supporters to cast their votes to help Bond Technologies and our CW-15 Canister
Welder advance in this prestigious competition!
The CW-15 Canister Welder is a groundbreaking solution in nuclear waste management. Designed,
manufactured, and installed by Bond Technologies, it’s the world’s first welding machine capable of
safely sealing nuclear fuel canisters for long-term storage. This machine is part of the world’s first
permanent geological repository for nuclear waste, located in Finland, where nuclear fuel rods are
sealed in two-inch thick copper canisters and buried 420 meters underground. Using Friction Stir
Welding (FSW), the CW-15 provides a leak-proof seal that ensures the safe containment of nuclear
materials for up to 100,000 years.
The CW-15 Canister Welder represents a major milestone in both environmental protection and
advanced manufacturing. Friction Stir Welding, a solid-state joining process, has been leveraged by Bond
Technologies to deliver an exceptionally durable weld without melting the material, making it ideal for
metals like copper, aluminum, and various metal alloys. Widely used in aerospace, marine, and
automotive industries, FSW opens new possibilities for safe nuclear waste disposal—a critical area for
environmental stewardship.
“We’re incredibly proud of the CW-15 Canister Welder and the difference it’s making in the world as part
of the first permanent solution for nuclear waste disposal. It’s likely one of the coolest things built not
just in Indiana, but globally, given its impact on environmental safety and sustainability. We’re thrilled
that the Indiana Chamber of Commerce contest highlights our work, along with the impressive
innovation happening across the state. This spotlight truly reflects Indiana’s forward-thinking spirit,” said
Bond Technologies President Dave Hofferbert.
With a record number of 90 entrants this year, the “Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana” contest celebrates
the innovative and diverse manufacturing landscape of Indiana. Organized by the Indiana Chamber and
the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC), the contest runs in a Hoosier Hysteria-style,
single-elimination bracket. We invite all supporters to visit www.indianachamber.com/coolestthing to
vote for Bond Technologies’ CW-15 Canister Welder, helping to bring Indiana’s ingenuity to the global
stage.
Voting Details:
• Round 1 Voting Period: October 31 – November 5, 2024
• Website to Vote: www.indianachamber.com/coolestthing
• Voting Requirement: All matchups in the round must be voted on to participate.
Help Bond Technologies showcase Indiana’s manufacturing excellence by voting for the CW-15 Canister Welder—the innovative solution redefining nuclear waste management.
