UNDIP, Semarang (January 22, 2025) – The series of ceremonies for the Inauguration of 36 Professors at Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) in early 2025 continues at the Prof. Sudarto, S.H. building on the Tembalang campus from January 20–24, 2025, and will resume on February 18–20, 2025. Today, Wednesday, January 22, 2025, marks the third day of the ceremony, with five professors from the Faculty of Engineering officially inaugurated; they are Prof. Dr. Ir. Sulardjaka, S.T., M.T., IPU, ASEAN Eng.; Prof. Dr. Hery Suliantoro, S.T., M.T.; Prof. Dr. Iwan Setiawan, S.T., M.T.; Prof. Dr. Muchammad, S.T., M.T.; and Prof. Dr. Purnawan Adi Wicaksono, S.T., M.T.
Starting his scientific speech, Prof. Dr. Ir. Sulardjaka, S.T., M.T., IPU, ASEAN Eng., an expert in Composites Processing and Characterization, stated that humans must strive to find measures to achieve net-zero carbon. In his presentation titled “Innovations in Composite Materials to Support the Achievement of Net-Zero Carbon,” Prof. Sulardjaka explained that advancements in material engineering, mainly through the development of composite materials, could support the goal of achieving net-zero carbon. The use of natural materials as innovations in composite materials, such as natural fibers and natural matrices, has been proven to reduce carbon footprints. Studies even show that replacing polypropylene with kenaf fibers in composites can reduce carbon footprints by 30-50%.
Prof. Dr. Hery Suliantoro, S.T., M.T., an expert in Strategic Procurement Management, in his presentation titled “Digital Transformation of Procurement as a Lever for Sustainable Government Goods/Services Procurement Performance,” elaborated on e-procurement, a system for procuring goods and services electronically through digital or internet-based platforms. To achieve sustainable procurement, digital transformation in procurement is essential to accelerate the implementation of e-procurement. While the current e-procurement system used in government goods and services procurement is operational, innovations and the adaptation of new technologies are necessary to enhance its efficiency. In his research, Prof. Hery proposed a comprehensive framework that can expedite the procurement process within the e-procurement system. This innovation is expected to drive economic growth across various sectors, including MSMEs, enabling them to expand massively, even on digital platforms.
Prof. Dr. Iwan Setiawan, S.T., M.T., an expert in Renewable Electrical Energy Systems and Technology, stated that the global electrical system is currently undergoing an energy transition toward more environmentally friendly energy sources. Over time, the demand for electrical energy continues to rise while conventional energy reserves are depleting, necessitating an energy transition. At present, small-scale power generation models are being developed and managed using localized electrical systems in the form of small-scale grid clusters. In his presentation titled “Development of DC Microgrid for More Independent Fulfillment of Electrical Energy Needs,” Prof. Iwan elaborated on the topology of a new electrical system known as a direct current microgrid or DC Microgrid.
Prof. Dr. Muchammad, S.T., M.T., an expert in Energy Conversion-Lubrication, delivered an inaugural speech titled “Development of Lubrication Models and Contact Surfaces on Bearings for Industrial Machines.” In industrial sectors such as automotive, power generation, and manufacturing, lubricants and lubrication processes are crucial for enhancing shaft load-bearing capacity and reducing friction.
Lubricants are widely used in journal bearings, thrust bearings in hydropower turbines, and journal bearings in vehicle crankshafts. However, a common challenge is lubrication failures that lead to significant wear and tear on equipment. In his research, Prof. Muchammad discovered that applying slip and multistep texturing to specific areas of the contact surface could improve lubrication performance, complemented by surface contact modifications with coatings. Furthermore, surface contact modifications can reduce noise by 10%, decrease friction by 20%, and increase load support by 165%.
Next was a presentation by Prof. Dr. Purnawan Adi Wicaksono, S.T., M.T., an expert in Circular Supply Chain Management, titled “Circular Supply Chain Management for Accelerating the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.” Circular Supply Chain Management (CSCM) refers to a supply chain management approach focused on sustainability—by creating cycles that minimize waste, maximize resource utilization, and recycle materials throughout the production and distribution processes. The principle of sustainability is rooted in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where CSCM practices contribute significantly to elements of the SDGs, particularly ‘Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.’ This goal promotes environmentally friendly manufacturing. Prof. Purnawan proposed solutions for applying circularity principles in supply chains to enhance economic performance while minimizing environmental sustainability impacts.
The Rector of Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., expressed his appreciation for the dedication of faculty members who persistently conduct research in their respective fields of expertise. During this period of professor inauguration, the Faculty of Engineering contributed the most, with 15 professors being inaugurated. Prof. Suharnomo emphasized that a professor is not only a scholar who is intelligent but also someone who exhibits a high level of care for society. The highest achievement in knowledge is not just earning the title of professor but demonstrating care for the community. “The most important thing is that the knowledge benefits society. May this Inauguration Ceremony of Professors serve as a moment to strengthen virtues and wisdom in life. Be a role model for the university, equipped with intellectual, mental, and spiritual intelligence,” conveyed Rector Prof. Suharnomo. (Titis – Media Relations)
