Engineering
The School of Engineering has a rich history of industrially relevant research in Engineering that has supported organisations locally, nationally and internationally.
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The School of Engineering has a rich history of industrially relevant research in Engineering that has supported organisations locally, nationally and internationally.
Our research is focused in two main areas:
This theme aims to promote and develop the use of the latest digital technologies in all areas of engineering including, manufacturing, product design and advanced maintenance while remaining focused on the development of an advanced approach to more sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing industry creating the flexible/smart factory. Working closely with industry on concepts which includes Internet of Things, Industrial Internet, Smart Manufacturing and Cloud-based Manufacturing we help industry to strive for the cutting edge of technology and innovation.
Our team of experts work on materials innovation and improvement for automotive, aerospace, marine, construction and energy applications. The team have adopted a Cradle-to-Cradle approach in design, materials selection and manufacturing processes. Activities include the development of lightweight polymer-matrix composites and nanocomposites controlling properties using reinforcing agents such as carbon fibres or nanofillers such as graphene and related materials. Research in metals is focused on increasing the strength and toughness of steels, aluminium, titanium and nickel alloys with improved weldability and corrosion resistance.
A key focus area across both of our themes is the application of the principles and technologies underpinning the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and delivering research outputs that help engineering companies realise its benefits. We also undertake pedagogic research in all the above areas which directly impacts the delivery of our range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes.
Our research and industrial engagement activity is supported by access to the latest technologies and facilities including materials characterisation and formulation facilities, advanced automation and Industry 4.0 technology, additive and digital manufacturing systems, virtual and augmented reality systems and Robotic and Cobot technology.
The School of Engineering strives to make a positive impact on the lives and wellbeing of local and national communities. We achieve this through innovation and research in advanced manufacturing carried out at our state-of-the-art research institute. There are two main research themes, Materials Science, and Advanced Manufacturing and Predictive Maintenance. Both have an applied focus.
We conduct further research in the following areas: