Working with Industry Loughborough University Schools of Engineering
www.lboro.ac.uk
Contents 01 Making connections 02 Working with our undergraduates 06 The industrial placement year 08 Postgraduate training for you and your staff 10 Knowledge Transfer 13 Collaborative research 16 Research centres and research schools 19 Some of the companies we work with
01
Making connections… The Schools of Engineering at Loughborough University make up one of the largest activities of its kind in the UK. Our undergraduate degrees attract more budding engineers than anywhere else in the country. In the National Student Survey, our graduates have consistently ranked their university experience amongst the top few nationally while the Graduate Recruiters Survey confirms their high quality and versatility. By the measure combining quality and quantity from the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, our world-class engineering research ranks in the UK’s top 5. In all of these activities, our close working relationships with industry feature prominently and are a source of great pride to us. In Lord Sainsbury’s Review of Science and Innovation Policies, ‘The Race to the Top’, we welcomed the emphasis given to industrial relevance within engineering education because this has been our fundamental philosophy for many years. Similarly, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills’ call for research with economic impact and strong relationships between business and universities, in its 2009 ‘Higher Ambitions’ report, resonated with our longstanding commitment to ‘research that matters’. A publication like this can never cover everything but I hope it gives a strong impression of the kind of work we do and the way we do it. This brochure is a celebration of the achievements of our industrial partnerships. I am sure that many of you will recognise the schemes within which we have worked together over the years but I also hope that you will find new opportunities where we could engage in activity of high quality and mutual benefit. Recently, we celebrated our 100th year of education and innovation. Loughborough looks forward to another 100 years in which meeting the needs of industry remains our highest priority.
Professor Steve Rothberg Dean of Engineering
02 Working with Industry
Working with our undergraduates What differentiates Loughborough engineering degrees? In James Dyson’s 2010 report, ‘Ingenious Britain’, he singled out Loughborough’s ‘customer-focused approach’ to engineering degrees when recommending that ‘more universities need to develop courses directly with industry’. The Royal Academy of Engineering agreed, picking out our sponsored degrees and our industry-based design projects as exemplars of effective practice in its ‘Engineering Graduates for Industry’ report. Like many universities, we work closely with engineers and recruiters from industry but, at Loughborough, it is the integration of these contributions from industry within our programmes that makes the crucial difference. We recruit high quality students and provide the UK’s best student experience1. Direct engagement with our industrial partners means graduates leave Loughborough with the technical and transferable skills necessary to tackle real issues facing the industry. That’s great for our graduates and great for you. The latest employability statistics bear out the value of our partnerships. Over 90% of our engineers are in a graduate job within six months of completing their studies2. Our sponsored degree programmes and industry based design projects are just two of the ways in which industry can work directly with our undergraduates.
Sponsored degrees Every year we offer over 100 places to engineers on our sponsored undergraduate degree programmes. Sponsored degrees help us to recruit the best students and sponsors can influence the currency and quality of the programmes. The student gains from the influence of and interactions with the industry sponsor, as well as from regular and challenging work placements and, in many cases, a guaranteed job on graduation. The sponsor gains a high quality, highly motivated employee with the right blend of skills and knowledge, able to make a positive impact on the organisation from day one. These benefits make this is a very attractive proposition for both parties. The Schools of Engineering currently offer the following sponsored degree programmes: n Civil Engineering MEng n Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying BSc
Loughborough University topped the Times Higher Education Best Student Experience poll for five years running
n Construction Engineering Management BSc n Innovative Manufacturing Engineering MEng n Systems Engineering MEng / BEng
Find out more about… Sponsored degrees
Footnotes:
Loughborough University topped the Times Higher Education Best Student Experience poll
1.
2.
in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 Destinations of Leavers of Higher Education Survey 2009
Contact: Abigail Loney, Engineering Marketing Officer E: a.a.loney@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227510
03 Working with our undergraduates
Balfour Beatty sponsorship of Civil & Building Engineering students “For the last three years, I have been Chairman of the Consortium of Sponsoring Employers for the Construction Engineering Management and Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying degrees.
Industry based design projects We believe in the value of presenting our students with real engineering problems. Design projects set by our industrial partners are an important part of the curriculum, allowing the host company to benefit from the fresh perspectives of our talented students. These projects allow students to develop pertinent problem solving and team working skills, invaluable in their future careers, but they also provide our industrial partners with innovative, cost-effective solutions to real problems.
Partnering the University has been a fulfilling experience. The prospective Student Open Days are a unique opportunity to discover future talent and rival companies cast aside their competitive differences, working together to maintain the high standard and well-deserved reputation that these programmes have earned.
GlaxoSmithKline and Chemical Engineering
The secret to continued success is the relevance of the programme content to taking our industry forward. The academic staff successfully impart a high work ethic to their students, whilst giving them every opportunity to develop as individuals.
“GSK are committed to supporting engineering education and a design project with a real-life industrial context benefits everyone involved. It helps the students to understand the vital commercial and industrial aspects of their discipline; builds strong and healthy links between industry and the university; and allows the students understand where engineering could take them after graduation.”
Like the other Consortium sponsors, Balfour Beatty invests significant time and resources in working with the University to attract, select and develop the best students for our industry. The investment pays dividends. We never cease to be amazed by the quality and capability of the sponsored students; they grow in confidence throughout the programme and subsequently progress through our organisation, becoming excellent role models and mentors for those following in their footsteps.” John Lucas, Head of Resourcing & Professional Development, Balfour Beatty Major Civil Engineeing Find out more about… Sponsorship in Civil and Building Engineering Contact: Dr Lisa Swaffield, Admissions Tutor Construction Engineering Management & Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying E: l.m.swaffield@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228740
A group of final year Chemical Engineering students recently worked with GSK to design a commercial process for manufacturing an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) that was later formulated into an antiretroviral drug for the treatment of HIV. A confidentiality agreement was made with GSK. The students made site visits to GSK to learn about manufacturing systems, meet staff and present their project to the company engineers.
Greg Simmonds, Chemical Engineer, GSK Find out more about… working with Chemical Engineering Contact: Professor Chris Rielly, Head of Chemical Engineering E: c.d.rielly@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222504
04 Working with Industry
Loughborough Teaching Contract Scheme In the Loughborough Teaching Contract Scheme, a consortium of industrial partners provide real problems for our students to tackle in project groups within the academic curriculum. The students engage with company staff through factory visits and progress meetings, replicating the industrial experience within the academic environment. Companies may work with either second year or finalist students. Many of the ideas put forward by our students have been taken up and developed by the participating companies. In addition, the scheme provides companies with privileged access to high quality placement students and potential future employees.
JCB Power Systems
Bentley Motors
“JCB is involved with the Loughborough Teaching Contract Scheme for a number of reasons. We can use the scheme to investigate and solve real challenges which we encounter at JCB. By the time the students reach their final year they are very capable, and their problem solving, research and design abilities are well tuned. Many have already had a year out and so are industrially aware, and as a result we get the right approach, attitude and ultimately results. Secondly, JCB is aware that the company’s engineering population needs a regular influx of new recruits and we use the opportunity to identify individuals who would fit well in our company. Finally, we recognise that a sound relationship with a highly regarded academic institution is a very valuable asset, and something we must maintain.
“My involvement in the Loughborough Teaching Contract Scheme started as an opportunity for my own personal development, as I wanted to improve my own management, development, coaching and mentoring skills. Six years on I am still involved with the scheme as I get a great deal of satisfaction in supporting the student projects each year.
We have set Loughborough students several different projects and received high quality results. We get the same service we would expect from a design consultancy – but the work is more thorough and detailed which is great. Most recently, we have had two test rigs designed by groups of students. One of the rigs is now running and allows us to increase our design IP on the components in question, giving us a great competitive advantage.” Alan Curtis, Senior Engineer, JCB Power Systems
The discipline of vehicle interior engineering is not something that is specifically taught in engineering degrees and the opportunity to promote and develop a level of early knowledge and skill in this area is invaluable to Bentley. The focus on design and development is particularly pure and fresh within a student team and is less subject to external influences. I have employed the techniques used within the student projects for research, concept development and selection within my own projects. Bentley’s involvement with the scheme has also led to the appointment of Loughborough graduate engineers within our team.” Dave Rook, Technical Specialist, Interior Craftsmanship, Bentley Motors Find out more about… the Loughborough Teaching Contract Scheme Contact: Helen Sankey, Executive Officer, Wolfson School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering E: h.m.sankey@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227511
05 Working with our undergraduates
06 Working with Industry
The industrial placement year We are unique in offering an industrial placement with every single one of our undergraduate degree programmes. Each year, over 400 of our student engineers take a high quality, salaried, sandwich year work placement in one of 250 companies. We strongly encourage the placement year and promote its many benefits. For the placement company, the students bring open minds and a solid foundation from the early years of their degree programmes, combined with the desire to take maximum advantage from their first substantial industrial experiences. Many companies view the placement as a year-long ‘interview’ and many students make such an impression that they are offered a permanent job on graduation. Placements have a huge motivational effect on students – grades and degree classifications improve and the students are more likely to seek graduate positions in engineering.
National Instruments and Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering “National Instruments has a long and successful history of working closely with Loughborough, recruiting many placement students and graduates. The multidisciplinary nature of Loughborough’s programmes, use of industry standard tools and team-based project work produce high quality, rounded engineers, with well-developed soft skills, as well as strong technical skills. These are the traits we seek for our Engineering Leadership Programme and the ones needed to drive a successful career at NI.” Robert Morton, Managing Director, National Instruments UK & Ireland
Pure Structures Consulting Engineers and Civil and Building Engineering “The applied engineering emphasis of their courses makes Loughborough an obvious first choice for the recruitment of graduate engineers. The placement year provides the opportunity for students to better understand the industry and make informed choices regarding their future career. Our experience of Loughborough students is that they quickly engage as members of our team. The placement programme is a win-win opportunity for students and employers.” Michael Fisher, Managing Director, Pure Structures
Jaguar Land Rover and Materials “The modern motor vehicle requires a complex mix of materials technologies and, through the industrial placement scheme and our graduate recruitment, Jaguar Land Rover has benefitted from the skills of several high calibre Materials students from Loughborough. They have consistently made excellent contributions to technical projects for current and future products. In parallel, the individuals have developed new skills and put into practice their academic knowledge.” Andrew Haggie, Manager, Materials Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover
Nissan and Automotive Engineering “In my experience, Loughborough students are very capable and learn quickly. Before long, they can work autonomously and they quickly establish themselves as a key support for the engineers. Placement students have the benefit of being coached by experienced engineers, in exchange the student brings additional knowledge in new technologies or software applications. Their “fresh eyes,” bring new ideas to improve day-to-day routines.” Jonathan Martinez, Purchasing Section Manager, Nissan International
Interserve and Civil and Building Engineering “We have offered placements to Loughborough students for many years, with almost all leading to sponsorship during their year(s) back at University and offers of employment upon graduation. Students are allocated to a major UK project where they shadow an experienced engineer. Within a very short space of time, they have their own site management responsibilities. Typical projects include prisons, schools and hospitals with a day-to-day focus on quality control, safety and environmental management.” Mike Wade, Technical Services Manager, Interserve Project Services Ltd
British Sugar and Mechanical Engineering “Our placements offer students useful insights for their final year of study and prepare them for the job market. We see the placement year as a two-way interaction and students from Loughborough have frequently presented new ideas to managers that have influenced business decisions.” Jane Bunney, Graduate Recruitment, British Sugar
07 The industrial placement year
PepsiCo and Chemical Engineering “The Loughborough courses differentiate themselves by encouraging students to take a placement year and gain crucial industrial experience. Loughborough attracts high calibre students making it the first choice for recruiting industrial placement engineers. Their experience makes them better informed about career direction and advantaged in gaining graduate roles. Our placement engineers perform real jobs and deliver against challenging objectives from day one. Placements have enabled us to find world class talent.” Barbara Warburg, Senior Innovation Engineer, PepsiCo R&D Europe
Cummins and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering “Cummins are always pleased to receive applications from Loughborough students, knowing how well they perform on placement. They get to know our business, they tell their friends about us and, of course, placement encourages them to join us when they graduate. Attending Loughborough recruitment fairs is a great way to meet the students and promote our global opportunities.” Jo Chester, Graduate Recruitment Support Manager, Cummins
Find out more about… providing industrial placements Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering Contact: Pat Griffin E: p.m.griffin@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227200
Chemical Engineering Contact: Ann Cage E: a.cage@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228442
Civil and Building Engineering Contact: Christine Barton E: c.a.barton@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222637
Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering Contact: Diane Wells E: d.wells@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227019
Materials Contact: Vaidhy Vaidhyanathan E: b.vaidhyanathan@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 223152
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Contact: Joanne Higham E: j.r.higham@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227652
08 Working with Industry
Postgraduate training for you and your staff We offer a portfolio of industry-focused, full-time, part-time and distance-learning MSc degree programmes. The part-time and distance-learning courses have been designed with the busy professional in mind and offer opportunities to supplement professional and academic experience with a postgraduate qualification. These courses are delivered via on-line study support systems and/or campus-based taught modules. We also offer a range of standard and bespoke short courses, ranging in length from one day to several weeks. The majority of the courses are based on modules from postgraduate taught programmes. For employers, the flexibility of our postgraduate training provides a cost-effective way of addressing skills gaps and developing a highly competent workforce, trained to meet the challenges of the increasingly competitive global market.
Postgraduate taught courses All courses are available as full and part-time programmes unless otherwise indicated.
Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
n Advanced Methods in Aeronautical Engineering (Full-time only)
n Advanced Engineering (Part-time only)
n Automotive Systems Engineering
n Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and Management
Chemical Engineering
n Engineering Design n Engineering Design and Manufacture (Distance Learning)
n Advanced Chemical Engineering with Information Technology and Management
n Mechanical Engineering
n Advanced Process Engineering
n Sustainable Engineering
Civil and Building Engineering n Building Services Engineering
Find out more about…
n Construction Business Management
postgraduate study in engineering
n Construction Management n Construction Project Management
W: www.lboro.ac.uk/eng/postgraduate
n Construction Project Management (Work-Based Distance Learning) n Infrastructure in Emergencies (Distance Learning) n Low Carbon Building Design and Modelling n Sustainable Transport and Travel Planning n Transport Policy and Business Management n Water and Environmental Management n Water and Waste Engineering n Water and Waste Engineering (Distance Learning) n Water and Environmental Management (Distance Learning)
Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering n Digital Communication Systems n Mobile Communications n Networked Communications n Renewable Energy Systems Technology n Signal Processing in Communications Systems n Systems Engineering
Automotive Systems MSc – part-time programme “The Automotive Systems MSc was a good fit with my career aspirations, namely to move away from a component-scale bias to a whole vehicle-scale perspective. The course has breadth and depth; the modules conferred a broad, high-level understanding of vehicles without diluting the technical content. Lectures from guest speakers providing the industry viewpoint were extremely valuable. The week-long residentials are packed with an effective mixture of intensive tuition and practicals. The part-time schedule fitted my needs and meant less disruption for my colleagues. The friends and contacts made on the course will undoubtedly be a major asset in my future career.” Andrew Tarpey, Durability and Reliability Attribute Team, Jaguar Land Rover
Materials n Materials Science and Technology n Packaging Technology n Polymer Technology
Find out more about… Automotive Systems MSc Contact: Dr Stephen Walsh, Programme Director E: s.j.walsh@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227208
09
Unilever Advanced Packaging Programme Unilever are well known for their many famous brands and packaging is an important part of their products. Unilever’s R&D Academy provides a framework of training and support for their packaging technologists of which this bespoke programme is a key element. Launched in 2008 with the Department of Materials, Unilever technologists study two distance learning modules and a one-week block taught module, leading to a Postgraduate Certificate in Packaging Technology. 14 technologists from across the world have started the programme and 8 have already graduated, with an option to continue to MSc.
Find out more about… postgraduate training in Materials Contact: Martin White, Graduate Development Officer E: m.e.white@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228592
Postgraduate research programmes Our Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funded programmes provide a number of options for postgraduate research study, specifically aimed at fostering collaboration with industry. Businesses can apply to the EPSRC for an Industrial CASE Funding Award and we can assist you in making your application. CASE funds a PhD student to conduct research focussed on your business needs. The PhD student has funding for 3.5 years with academic supervision provided by the University. The Engineering Doctorate Scheme (EngD) offers a more vocationally oriented doctorate. The scheme is open to engineers currently working in industry and a major part of their current job can become their EngD topic.
Engineering Doctorate Centre for Innovative and Collaborative Construction Engineering (CICE), Civil and Building Engineering “I completed my EngD at Loughborough and was promoted both during my studies and shortly after graduation. The industrial and academic mix within the EngD provided a great balance for me. I was keen to remain in industry and progress my career, whilst examining a specific problem in depth. My project focussed on using mobile computer technology to deliver and collect information from the workforce on construction sites. Elements of my project work were directly implemented on-site which was particularly satisfying. Arup has continued to sponsor students at the CICE, to undertake research projects of immediate value to the business, and to develop its staff and further strengthen the pool of available talent.” Dr Sarah Bowden EngD, Associate Director, Arup Find out more about… the EngD CICE Contact: Professor Dino Bouchlaghem, CICE Director E: n.m.bouchlaghem@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 223775 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/cice
the UK Engineering Doctorate Centre in Energy Demand Reduction in the Built Environment Contact: Kevin Lomas, Professor of Building Simulation E: k.j.lomas@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222615 W: www.energy-building-dtc.org.uk
10 Working with Industry
Knowledge Transfer Knowledge Transfer is a multi-faceted activity occupying the space between academic research and commercial exploitation. Whether you are a multi-national or a local enterprise from the public, private or charity sector, our research expertise can help you identify, define and solve your major challenges. Our partnerships with business, industry and commerce help increase profitability, efficiency and inject innovation into products and processes. Mechanisms for achieving these goals include consultancy, KTPs and research collaborations. Find out more about‌ business partnerships Contact: Dr Lisa Banks, Head of Business Partnerships E: l.a.banks@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228690
consultancy Contact: Julie Taylor, Consultancy Manager E: j.a.taylor@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228677
Loughborough Science and Enterprise Park Contact: Phill Dickens, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise) E: p.dickens@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 223440
KTPs A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) is a three-way collaboration between a university, a company and a graduate working on a company project for a period of 1-3 years. For an SME, up to 67% of the KTP cost is funded by Government grant. For a large company, up to 50% of the cost is funded by Government. The remainder of the cost comes from the company. We have a successful track record in obtaining funding for KTPs which have allowed industrial partners to benefit from the innovative ideas and skills of our research staff, facilitating product development, business expansion and performance improvements.
11 Knowledge Transfer
KTP at Campbell Scientific
Campbell Scientific manufactures a range of electronic measuring instruments and meteorological equipment which is sold primarily to meteorological services, universities and industry throughout Europe. Their relationship with the Optical Engineering Research Group was established in 2001 when they first collaborated through a KTP. The company was looking to reduce the number of components they had to buy in by growing their capabilities to produce enhanced products in-house. Over nine years and three KTPs, Campbell Scientific has utilised academic expertise to help them develop three innovative weather measurement products.
European Construction Institute (ECI) The European Construction Institute is a unique, trans-national learning and improvement network, designed to raise the performance and standards of the construction industry. Based at Loughborough, ECI is primarily funded by its members who comprise Europe’s largest client and contractor organisations. These include Shell Global Solutions, BP, RWE, Fluor and AMEC, alongside specialist sub-contractor organisations and professional services providers. The Institute fosters a spirit of mutual cooperation to research, develop and apply best practice.
Dick Saffell, Managing Director, Campbell Scientific
“I had always been familiar with technical and academic associations, as well as with public construction contracts; but with ECI I entered another world. ECI is the place to discuss issues such as progress and innovation – which are of major importance to the future of the construction industry and the future of our society. ECI must attract more active companies and clients to develop its ethos.”
Find out more about…
Michel Virlogeux, Designer of Millau Viaduct and ECI President
“We sought expertise in a very specialised area and found it right on our doorstep. The University has been very supportive in guiding us through the procedure and establishing the projects.”
Knowledge Transfer Contact: Kathryn Burchell, Knowledge Transfer Manager E: k.d.burchell@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228493 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/business
Optical Engineering Research Contact: Jeremy Coupland, Professor of Applied Optics E: j.m.coupland@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227506
Bringing industry and academia together Systems Engineering Innovation Centre (SEIC) The Systems Engineering Innovation Centre, established in 2003 with BAE Systems, is one of our industrial collaboration success stories. Underpinned by funding from the East Midlands Development Agency (emda), the Centre is a unique resource for research into the integration of people, process, tools and technology. The SEIC brings engineers from different companies and academic researchers together under one roof. An interest in the application of systems engineering to solving complex industrial problems is the key membership criterion and we are always on the look out to add to our industrial memberships. Currently, over 40 industrial and academic researchers are collaborating on projects at the cutting-edge of this emerging discipline. Most recently, Jaguar Land Rover have decided to place personnel in the Centre to work alongside BAE Systems and University staff.
Find out more about… the SEIC Contact: Professor Roy Kalawsky, Technical Head of the SEIC E: r.s.kalawsky@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 635678 W: www.seic-loughborough.com
Find out more about… ECI Contact: Naomi Brookes, Royal Academy of Engineering/ECI Professor of Project Management E: n.j.brookes@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 223526 W: www.eci-online.org
Additive Manufacturing Knowledge Hub The Additive Manufacturing Research Group (AMRG) aims to push forward the development of additive layer manufacturing technologies for mainstream industrial applications. The Knowledge Hub is the industrial dissemination arm of the AMRG and works as a technology translator between university research and industrial technology adoption. Companies pay a membership fee to access technologies within the AMRG laboratory and the support of the resource centre manager. Typical activities include bespoke developmental projects and applications research, staff training and up-skilling and external supply chain development projects. Past and present Hub members have included companies such as Boeing, BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover, Siemens, Lotus, Sony Ericsson and Electrolux.
Find out more about… research in additive manufacturing and the Additive Manufacturing Knowledge Hub Contact: Richard Hague, Professor of Innovative Manufacturing E: r.hague@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227619 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/amrg
12 Working with Industry
13 Collaborative research
Collaborative research Loughborough is a research-intensive university, proud of its longstanding commitment to ‘research that matters’. Our diverse and distinctive research strengths are recognised internationally for their high quality and characterised by significant engagement with industry. In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, our engineering research was ranked in the UK top 53. We have an excellent track record in attracting funds for engineering research from the Government’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and we may be able work with you in an exceptionally cost effective manner by such means. In addition to specific project funding, we control EPSRC funds for the Engineering Doctorate Scheme and for Knowledge Transfer which might suit the particular collaboration you have in mind. We also invest significant funds ourselves in our PhD programmes providing both an opportunity for further collaboration and a supply of very highly skilled engineers for industry. To put the scope for collaboration in perspective, the grants we hold are currently funding around £17m of engineering research each year while our PhD student population is approaching 500.
CREST – the winds of change
Caterpillar Innovation and Research Centre
The UK currently has more offshore wind power than anywhere else in the world. Further rapid growth is expected and the ability to predict and prevent reliability problems at such remote sites is of increasing importance.
The world’s largest maker of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines, Caterpillar works at the forefront of new technology in order to meet its sustainability goals.
Professor Simon Watson from the Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology (CREST) has been working with utility giant E.ON and the world’s largest independent renewable energy consultancy, GL Garrad Hassan, on the strategic monitoring of turbine components to identify bearing, gearbox or generator problems before failures actually occur.
For several years, Loughborough research teams have explored pioneering technologies to improve engine and machine performance, delivering exhaust emission reductions and ever more fuel-efficient operation.
Simon recognises that engaging with industrial partners is vital to developing industry relevant solutions, “We know precisely what their issues are. By pre-empting problems, operators can save money and plan effective maintenance programmes.”
“Collaborating with the CREST team has given E.ON access to the latest developments in wind resource technology and in addition, Loughborough CASE students have consistently made valuable contributions to our onshore and offshore wind energy research programmes.” Dr Dave Pearce, Technical Head of Renewables, E.ON New Build & Technology Find out more about… research in renewable energy Contact: Professor Phil Eames, Director of CREST E: p.c.eames@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 635347 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/crest
Footnote 3: 3. Based on 2008 Research Assessment Exercise Results – total GPA for all Engineering UoAs x
volume of staff submitted.
Data source: Times Higher Education (based on GPAs for Units of Assessment 24-29 for all UK institutions.)
The University has recently formalised its long-standing relationship through the creation of the Caterpillar Innovation and Research Centre, the first such agreement in Europe. The Innovation and Research Centre will expand the joint working relationship between Caterpillar and the University, bringing benefits to both organisations. The aim of the Centre is to facilitate further innovation and technology transfer and to provide Caterpillar with access to Loughborough’s world class researchers and facilities.
Find out more about… research in applied thermodynamics Contact: Professor Colin Garner E: c.p.garner@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227527
research in low carbon technologies Contact: Professor Rui Chen E: r.chen@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227255
research in dynamics Contact: Professor Homer Rahnejat E: h.rahnejat@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227569
14 Working with Industry
adidas match ball development
Planning a safe and secure future
Our Sports Technology Research Group has an exclusive and established partnership with adidas. After previously working in partnership with adidas to research and develop assessment methods for the 2008 European Championship and 2006 World Cup footballs, the Group most recently worked on the “Jabulani,” the Official Match Ball for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.
A team of academics led by Professor Andrew Dainty and Dr Lee Bosher have developed a web-based decision support tool for the construction industry to help mitigate the threats to buildings and critical infrastructure posed by natural and human induced hazards. Known as PRE-EMPT (Proactive Resilient Engineering and Emergency Mitigation Planning Tool), the service helps to increase the resilience of existing and new build assets, including schools, hospitals, transport facilities and office blocks. It sets out a clear process for tackling disaster risk management considerations during the preconstruction stage, and signposts users to relevant guidance as well as key government and industry contacts.
The “JABULANI”, which means “to celebrate” in isiZulu, features a South African inspired design and radically new technology. Ground-breaking performance features were confirmed in comprehensive comparison tests and checks in the wind tunnel at Loughborough and the adidas football laboratory in Scheinfeld, Germany.
Find out more about… research in sports technology Contact: Professor Mike Caine, Director of Sports Technology Institute E: m.p.caine@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 564800 W: www.sports-technology.com
Superskysense
John Laing, a specialist owner, operator and manager of public sector infrastructure assets in the UK and internationally, is one of the companies benefitting from PRE-EMPT.
“We found the web-based tool extremely useful on a day-to-day basis. We can see the value of our company using PRE-EMPT in future projects and look forward to assisting further with this important research.” Tony Atkinson, Technical Services Director, John Laing Find out more about… research in the built environment
Superskysense is a €2.9 million European Commission project, uniting two academic and eleven industrial partners. Expertise in advanced Chemical Engineering separation technologies has been a crucial factor in this project which aims to deliver an autonomous, onboard system with the capacity to assess the condition of aviation hydraulic fluid and to recondition it as demanded. This will increase the lifetime of the fluid and prevent damage caused by degraded fluid. Ultimately, this will reduce maintenance costs and provide competitive advantage to the industry.
Contact: Professor Andrew Dainty E: a.r.j.dainty@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228742
“Loughborough’s contribution has been essential in assessing the viability of an on-board hydraulic fluid reconditioning system. Their extensive expertise, professionalism and unwavering dedication have made Loughborough University a reliable partner and a valuable addition to the team.”
Find out more about…
Partners for Water and Sanitation was launched at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002 as a not-for-profit partnership programme to match pro bono expertise provided by the UK water industry to support national staff working in water supply and sanitation in Africa. It was hosted from 2007 to 2010 by Loughborough University’s Water Engineering and Development Centre (WEDC) which provided technical support, co-ordination and quality management to the programme. This included training needs assessment, the selection, briefing and debriefing of UK experts, reporting and knowledge management. The programme matched African partners’ demands for skills, advice and expertise with professional volunteers from more than 30 partners in the UK water industry who then undertook short capacity-building visits to the country. Their feedback was very positive:
research in chemical engineering
“Perfect match between the required skills and the adviser”
Contact: Dr Danish Malik, Research Coordinator E: d.j.malik@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222507
(Water Works Design and Supervision Enterprise, Ethiopia)
Gaby Chaib, Business Development Manager, Interlab IEC
Partners for Water and Sanitation
“WEDC briefing provided good grounding information on the country and the work, very useful” (UK water industry expert)
Find out more about… WEDC Contact: Dr Andrew Cotton, Director of WEDC E: a.p.cotton@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222643 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/wedc
15 Collaborative research
16 Working with Industry
Research centres and research schools When research activities achieve a certain scale, often as a consequence of a major collaboration with an industrial partner or a consortium of partners, a research centre is created. In many cases, the research centre will offer specialist or even unique facilities. Typically, these facilities are made possible by grants from EPSRC, the regional development agency or other funding bodies. We also invest significant internal funds to create strategically important laboratories. Increasingly in the modern world, an inter-disciplinary approach to research is needed with input required from across the engineering disciplines and beyond. At Loughborough, we have formed research schools to meet such challenges with particular strengths in low carbon technologies, sustainability, health and life sciences, materials, and systems engineering.
EPSRC funded centres Loughborough University hosts two EPSRC Innovative Manufacturing Research Centres (IMRCs) and in 2010 was awarded funding for one of the new EPSRC Centres for Innovative Manufacturing. The Centres initially attract funding for five years.
The Innovative Manufacturing and Construction Research Centre (IMCRC) The IMCRC is the largest centre of its kind. Since its inception in 2001, the IMCRC has received £32 million of funding from the EPSRC and has developed partnerships with over 400 industrial collaborators. The Centre is concerned with research issues from design, processes and materials to business and management. Projects bring academics from different areas together, from manufacturing and construction to systems engineering and computer science. Cross-disciplinary research is a major benefit of such a large centre.
The Innovative Electronics Manufacturing Research Centre (IeMRC) Supported by a grant of £9.2 million, the IeMRC unites a number of universities with its ‘hub’ at Loughborough. It is focussed on growing high value electronics manufacturing in the UK, delivering innovative and exploitable new technologies in partnership with the electronics industry.
The EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine The EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine is a 5 year project, involving £5.33 million of investment from EPSRC and a further £3 million from industry and government partners. The Centre’s aim is to carry out world-leading research, test and implement ideas in clinical and industrial settings, create next generation platforms for manufacturing regenerative medicines and to inform business models, policy and public debate.
Find out more about… the IMCRC Contact: James Bishop, IMCRC Research Manager E: j.a.bishop2@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227546 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/imcrc
the IeMRC Contact: Paul Conway, Professor of Manufacturing Processes E: p.p.conway@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227670 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/research/iemrc
the Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine Contact: David Williams, Professor of Healthcare Engineering, Director of Research School of Health and Life Sciences E: d.j.williams@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227668 W: www.epsrc-regen-med.org
17 Research centres and research schools
Project CALEBRE – ‘Consumer-Appealing Low Energy Technologies for Building REtrofitting’
Loughborough University/Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Combustion Aerodynamics
Our Sustainability Research School draws upon the expertise of specialists committed to interdisciplinary collaboration with academic and industry partners. CALEBRE is one of its projects, jointly funded by Research Councils UK and E.ON, with the aim of reducing UK domestic carbon emissions.
Formed in 1991, the UTC is a strategic partnership between Loughborough University and Rolls-Royce for advanced technology development and associated research. At any time, around 30 experimental and computational (CFD) research projects cover a range of combustion system and gas turbine internal aerodynamic problems.
The research involves a partnership of six universities and is specifically targeted at solidwall properties which are classified as ‘hard-to-treat’. Technologies including electric and gas-fired heat pumps, home ventilation heat recovery, energy-efficient vacuum glazing and innovative surface treatments to control temperature and moisture are under investigation. User perspectives, on issues such as the degree of disturbance that householders are prepared to tolerate during refurbishment, are key. Loughborough provides project leadership and expertise in user-centred needs and occupant thermal comfort evaluation.
As well as direct funding from Rolls-Royce, project sponsors also include EPSRC, TSB and the EU. In 2006, a £3 million investment saw the opening of a state-of-the-art Unsteady Fluid Mechanics Laboratory, exemplifying our commitment to maintaining outstanding experimental facilities.
“E.ON has had a long and successful history of collaboration with Loughborough University. This latest project addresses the complex and difficult issue of our transition to a low carbon society. We need combinations of different technologies working together, particularly on the demand side. The CALEBRE project represents a particularly significant step towards this aim. We anticipate that Loughborough and its partners will again make an important contribution, bringing valuable expertise and insight to the evaluation of these technology options.” Dr Dave Clarke, Head of R&D, E.ON Engineering Find out more about… research in sustainability Contact: Professor Dennis Loveday, Director of Sustainability Research School E: d.l.loveday@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222635
As part of a recent EU funded project, a novel approach to compressor-combustor interface management was adopted by Rolls-Royce in their design of the Trent XWB engine for the Airbus A350 XWB (to enter service in 2013). Estimates for the Trent XWB component, designed at Rolls-Royce and validated at Loughborough, indicate a reduction in system pressure loss, which translates into 20,000kg fuel saving per aircraft per year.
Find out more about… the UTC and research in applied aerodynamics Contact: Professor Jim McGuirk, Director of Loughborough University/Rolls-Royce UTC in Combustion Aerodynamics E: j.j.mcguirk@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227211
18 Working with Industry www.lboro.ac.uk
Working with Industry
A healthcare revolution The Centre for Biological Engineering (CBE) is a multi-disciplinary research centre, bridging the fields of engineering and biology and integrating research from Chemical Engineering, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and Electronic and Electrical Engineering. The Centre is pioneering the field of regenerative medicine, a science which one day may have the potential to re-grow tissues, eliminate organ donor lists and beat conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Its aim is to enable development of affordable regenerative medicine products that satisfy the healthcare regulator. The CBE is also host to both the prestigious EPSRC Doctoral Training Centre for Regenerative Medicine, a £6m project to equip 50 PhD students with the cutting-edge skills required to become leaders in this emerging industry, and the EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine (see page 16). The Automation Partnership (TAP) develops advanced cell culture automation systems and is a major partner of the Centre.
“This has been a very important collaboration for TAP. The combination of Loughborough expertise and research capability, alongside TAP’s experience of developing systems for the pharmaceutical industry, will increase the likelihood and reduce the time of cost effective regenerative therapies reaching the market.” David Newble, CEO, The Automation Partnership (Cambridge).
Find out more about… the Centre for Biological Engineering Contact: David Williams, Professor of Healthcare Engineering, Director of Research School of Health and Life Sciences E: d.j.williams@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 227668 W: www.lboro.ac.uk/lcbe
the Doctoral Training Centre in Regenerative Medicine Contact: Chris Hewitt, Professor of Biological Engineering, DTC Director E: c.j.hewitt@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 222506 W: www.dtc-regen-med.com
19 Some of the companies we work with www.lboro.ac.uk/xxxxx
Working with Industry
Some of the companies we work with… 2H Offshore Engineering
BG Group
Costain
GallifordTry
3M
BNS Nuclear Services
Croda
GCHQ
ABB Engineering
The Boots Co.
Crofton Design
GE Aviation
Abnormal Load Engineering
BNS Nuclear Services
CTS Bahrain
GE Mobile Water
adidas
Boeing
Cummins
General Motors
AdvanSA
Bovis Lend Lease
Daimler (Mercedes Benz cars)
Germains Technology
Advantica
BOSCH Lawn and Garden
Dean & Dyball Rail
GHD Pty
Aero Engine Controls
BP
Delphi Diesel Systems
GlaxoSmithKline
Aggregate Industries
BRE
Delta Partnership
Glide Pharmaceutical Technologies
Agusta Westland
Bri-Stor Systems
Diageo
Goodrich Engine Control Systems
AECOM
British Energy
Diamould
Group Cytek
Airbus UK
British Sugar
Dow Chemicals
Haden Freeman
Aker Kvaerner Subsea Solutions
Brose Limited
DSTL
Halliburton Engineering
Aker Solutions
Brunner Mond
Dunlop Aerospace
Hawkeye Innovations
Alstrom Power
BSkyB
DuPont de Nemours Luxembourg sàrl
HP
Alstrom Converteam
BT
Dyson
Hyde Grou
Alvan Blanch
Buhler Sortex
EADS
Hydro Int
Amey
Buro Happold
Eg Technology
IBC Vehicles
ANIMP of Italy
Cadbury
Electrolux
IBM
Apical
Campbell Scientific
E/M Coating Services
Imagination Technologies
Aquabio
Canterbury Europe
EMCO Wheaton
IHC Engineering Business
Aqualisa Products
Carillion
E.ON UK
Ineos Enterprises
ARM
Cargill
Elastogran
Innovia Films
Artform International
Case New Holland Agriculture (CNH)
Enpure
Intel
Arup
Caterpillar
ESC Lille
International Tennis Federation
Arvin Meritor
CB & I UK
Esso Petroleum
Interserve
Association for Project Safety
CBG Consultants
Eurotherm Drives
Interlab IEC
Association of British Healthcare Industries
CEL International
Extec Screens and Crushers
Invetech/Vision Systems
CFE Group
Exxon Petroleum Co
Invista Textiles
Chevron
ExxonMobil
ITF Licensing (UK)
CI Logistics
Fabricom
Jaguar Cars Limited
Cinetic Landis Grinding
Fagioli S.p.A
Jaguar Land Rover
Cobham Advanced Composites
Fanuc Robotics
James Fisher Nuclear
Coca Cola Enterprises
Ferrum
JCB
Conoco Phillips
Flexitallic
JLG Industries
Cooper Fulleon
Fluor
John Deere Werke Mannheim
Cooper Industries
Ford Motor Co.
John Laing Investments
Cooper Lighting and Safety
Foster Wheeler
JMP Consulting
Corus
Fraser-Nash Consultancy
Johnson Matthey
Coryton Refinery
Fujifilm
Johnston Sweepers
AstraZeneca Atkins Global Avecia Biologics Aylesbury Automation Babcock BAE Systems Balfour Beatty BAM Nuttall Basell Polyolefins Bechtel Bentley Motors
20 Working with Industry
Some of the companies we work with… Kier Group
National Instruments
Ringway
Syngenta
Kingsfield Consulting International
National Physical Laboratory
Rohm and Haas
Tata Steel
K Home International
NATS
Rolls-Royce Plc
Taylor Hobson
Kodak
Nestlé
Royde and Tucker
TCS
Kraft Foods
New Balance
RPS Burks Green
Tetra Engineering
Laing O’Rourke
Nike
RSA Carbon
Thales UK
Laker-Vent Engineering
Nissan
Russell Investment Bank
The Automation Partnership
Lloyds Register
Nomura International
Rutland Plastics
The Hardstaff Group
Lockheed Martin
Northrop Grumman Park Air Systems
RWE npower
Thorworld
Lotus Engineering
NPIL Pharma
Sabic UK Petrochemicals
Tony Gee & Partners
Lubrizol
Ofcom
Sagentia
Total Fina
Lucas Aerospace
O’Hare Engineering
Sandwood Design & Build
Total UK
Magnox Electric
Paul Reading & Partners
Sasol, Secunda, S. Africa
Toyota
Maire Tecnimont
PepsiCo
SBD Secured By Design
Transco
Mars Petcare
Pera
Schlegel Automotive
Trelleborg Industrial
Marshall Aerospace
Perenco
Schlumberger
Triumph
Martin Baker Aircraft Company
Perkins Engines
Schroder Investment Management
TRL Technology
Mass Premier Soccer
Perpetual Energy
Scott Wilson
TRW
Masterfoods
Petroplus
Scottish and Southern Energy
Turner Powertrain Systems
Mastermover International
Pitney Bowes
SE Controls
Tyco Electronics
MBDA
Plan International
Severn Trent Water
UK Sport
Meggitt Polymer Solutions
Polytan Sports Surfaces
Selex Galileo
Unilever
Mercedez-Benz High Performance Engines
Ponticelli Frères
Serding
Uniqema
Porsche
Shell Global Solutions
PPD, Pakistan
Shepherd Construction
United Kingdom International Soccer Camps
PROjEN
Sicon BV
Procter and Gamble
Siemens
Prysmian Cables
Smith Medical International
Puma AG
Snamprogetti SpA
Purac
Sir Robert McAlpine
Pure Structures
Skanska
Purite
Smurfit Kappa
Qinetiq
Sony Ericsson
Ram International
Speedo
Reckitt Benckiser
SPS Technologies
Reebok Fitness Equipment International
Stannah Lifts
Remote Marine Systems
Stewart Golf
Remotec
Structherm
Renishaw
Sustainable Energy Action
Ricardo UK
Swim Tag
Merck, Sharp & Dohme Meridian Technologies UK Metzeler Automotive Profile Systems Millbrook Proving Ground MIRA Mitie Scotgate Mitre Molson Coors Brewing Company Morgan Sindall Morgan Crucible Morgan Prof. Services Mouchel Group Moy Park Murfitts Industries MWH Global National Grid
Urchin Clothing Company UYT Vauxhall Velo Science Vinci Virgin Atlantic Visteon Waukesha Bearings Walter Lilly VVB Engineering Services Wockhardt UK Xaar Technology Xerox YJL Infrastructure Zoggs International
Contacts Schools of Engineering Contact: Abigail Loney W: www.lboro.ac.uk/eng T: 01509 223493
Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering W: www.lboro.ac.uk/aeroauto T: 01509 227200
Chemical Engineering W: www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/cg T: 01509 222533
Civil and Building Engineering W: www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/cv T: 01509 222884
Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering W: www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/el T: 01509 227029
Materials
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering W: www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/mm T: 01509 227641
41938 D&P Jan 11
W: www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/materials T: 01509 223331
www.lboro.ac.uk
41938/D&PS/Feb 2011
Loughborough University Leicestershire LE11 3TU T: +44 (0)1509 223493 E: marketing@lboro.ac.uk