A new hybrid manufacturing method that aims to boost capability in the UK and increase manufacturing efficiency for key aerospace components, could see future use at global manufacturers in the production of aircraft. Shropshire-based SME, SDE Technology, is leading the initiative to develop a new superplastic forming process, enabling it to expand into the aerospace market. The project forms part of the National Aerospace Technology Exploitation Programme (NATEP) and has support from the Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) within the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS).

For further information www.nmis.scot