AMRC celebrates 12 years of advanced manufacturing with Tech Fellows conference
The 31st October 2012 marked the culmination of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centres 24th annual Tech Fellows conference.
Held over two days, the event also marked the first time it has been hosted in the recently launched Diamond Jubilee Knowledge Transfer Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in South Yorkshire.
Tech Fellows is run by the University of Sheffield AMRC as a way of publishing the results of generic projects, introducing new members and providing a platform for networking.
Over 100 delegates from more than 70 AMRC member companies worldwide attended the momentous event. Among them were representatives from Boeing, Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Messier-Dowty, Goodrich, Spirit AeroSystems and Sandvik.
More than 280 employees make up the AMRC research groups, from which 36 presentations were delivered, highlighting significant progress and future plans. Other industrial presenters included Goodrich, Hexagon Metrology, RTI and Alicona.
During the conference, plans for diversification and physical expansion of the AMP site were revealed, which will commence imminently with the building of a purpose built facility to house the Design, Prototype and Test Centre, which is supported by the Technology Strategy Board and the European Regional Development Fund.
Adrian Allen, Commercial Director at the AMRC said: We are particularly proud that the AMRC has developed into a major force in the manufacturing industry with an impressive international presence. Backed by such an eclectic mix of powerful industry members, the potential of the AMRC is limitless.
Marcello Grassi, Head of Technology at Spirit Aerosystems Europe said: As a member of the AMRC, I am extremely impressed with the broad spectrum of capabilities and research available here. To provide so many technology strands under one roof is truly a unique offering that sets AMRC apart from other research centres. Spirit AeroSystems is highly optimistic about its future within the AMRC and the opportunity to expand its R&D portfolio.
Lem Hunter, CEO of Vibrant Corporation said: The networks Ive gained through the research undertaken here at the AMRC make it possible for my business to remain, and indeed expand its efforts in Sheffield.