EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

AMRC to develop sustainable composites

The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) has secured funding for a new capability, the first-of-its-kind in the UK, to research and develop novel fibre-reinforced thermoplastic tapes. These recyclable materials have the potential to transform sustainability in composite manufacturing.The Multipurpose Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape (FRTT) Development Cell will take shape courtesy of a £1.7m grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, which is part of UK Research and Innovation.
For further information www.amrc.co.uk

Schaeffler buys Aerosint

Motion control specialist Schaeffler is strengthening its know-how in additive manufacturing technologies with the acquisition of Belgian start-up Aerosint SA from Desktop Metal, a US manufacturer of 3D printing systems. The start-up will be renamed Schaeffler Aerosint SA and integrate into the Schaeffler Group as an additional location for Schaeffler Special Machinery.The patented selective powder deposition (SPD) technology of Aerosint makes it possible to create homogeneous layers comprising multiple adjacent material deposits. The process deposits only the required amounts of the right materials at the required locations.
For further information www.schaeffler.com

MACH 2024 to feature knowledge hubs

The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) will use its flagship event, MACH 2024 (15-19 April, Birmingham NEC), to launch a new initiative that aims to help UK manufacturers become more competitive while improving efficiency and sustainability.A series of knowledge hubs will feature at the exhibition to encourage UK engineering-based manufacturers to adopt new technology and techniques that enable them to compete globally in a sustainable manner.

The MTA’s knowledge hubs at MACH 2024 will focus on educating users in when and how to adopt new technologies such as:automation and robotics, data and artificial intelligence for manufacturing; sustainable manufacturing towards net zero; and the use of additive manufacturing techniques.The MTA is part of a united front by UK manufacturing organisations, along with the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and MACH 2024 headline sponsor Lloyds Bank, to increase the uptake of new technologies.
For further information www.machexhibition.com

Make UK partners WYMS

Make UK is joining forces with West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services to bring the best in environmental and health and safety training to the north of England.The collaboration will come into force from 1 January 2024, when Make UK’s health, safety and sustainability training will join with the extensive offer already available, to support manufacturers and engineers at WYMS’ facility in Brighouse.Just minutes from Junction 25 of the M62, WYMS’ purpose-built facilities, with state-of-the-art training and conference technology, provide an ideal learning environment.
For further information www.makeuk.org

Cast-iron success for foundry training course

A new training programme that improves the competitiveness of the foundry sector is now complete and looking to recruit its next cohort.The Certificate in Cast Iron Production, Metallurgy and Quality Control – delivered as a joint venture by ICME and the Cast Metals Federation (CMF) – helped increase the knowledge and progression of nine staff at four different companies.Delivered over an 18-month period, the course combined focused learning through a mix of classroom delivery, practical sessions and workplace projects. The programme is now recruiting a new cohort for a start date of March 2024.
For further information training@icme.org.uk