Advanced Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing processes take Three-Dimensional (3D) computer aided design (CAD) data and directly print or grow parts in a variety of polymeric, metallic, organic and ceramic materials.
We work across a wide variety of sectors to realise the benefits that can come from understanding and implementing advanced manufacturing techniques. We have a grounded experience over the past ten years in actively engaging with companies of all sizes, helping to inspire technological innovation and functional product development.
Access Expertise
- Micro and nano systems
- Structures, design and manufacturing
- Radiometrics and special instruments
- High power microwave engineering
- Nuclear and renewable energy
Access Facilities
Due to our size and diversity we can offer facilities beyond what the average Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) might have available.
- Computer aided engineering and analysis software, used from concept product development through to full manufacturing lifecycle management
- Additive Manufacturing (AM) facility, accessible as a technology demonstrator, learning resource and operational prototyping and manufacturing facility
- Bespoke workshops educating companies in the use and benefits of the latest design thinking, AM technologies and techniques
Benefits of Collaboration
- Access unique knowledge and technologies
- Access our multi-million pound facilities
- Work with us to develop new products and processes
- Tap into our networks and collaborate
- A range of options for engaging student resource, from short term 2-week student projects through to fully sponsored 3-year PhD studentships. We place around 60 students a year in 40 companies
Working in Partnership
Our collaborators range from Northwest SMEs and global organisations such as QinetiQ, National Nuclear Laboratory, The Linde Group (formerly BOC Plc), Sellafield Nuclear Power Station, Bloodhound Supersonic Car Programme, BAE Systems, YorkshireWater, United Utilities and the Department for Transport.
We also work as part of a wider multidisciplinary team across Science and Technology at Lancaster linking in with experts in Energy, Environment, Health and Human Development, Information and Communication Technologies, Mathematics and Statistics, Security and Quantum Technology to complement our expertise.
Partnership Examples
- Microfluidic/biofluidic devices, electronics design for test, reliability and health monitoring
- Voice recognition for speech therapy
- Nuclear medicine-radiation detection
Support for Design and Rapid Manufacturing (SusDRaM Project)
This £2m business support programme for Northwest-based SMEs has been running since 2009 and is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). It provides bespoke design and additive manufacturing technology expertise to develop and build new products.
Research with SMEs
Research focuses on rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing for a wide range of industrial applications. Examples include:
- Aerospace and automotive components
- Consumer products
- Medical devices
- Packaging
- Personal protective equipment
- Surgical guides
Contact
Lancaster Product Development Unit
Engineering Building
Lancaster University
Lancaster
LA1 4YR
+44 (0)1524 594 298
www.lpdu.lancs.ac.uk
Route to Access
We have an experienced Advanced Manufacturing team that provides the interface between our researchers and industry. We have a broad knowledge base and many routes to collaboration, helping each business find the specific solutions they need.