HRH Duke of York opens world-class research centre

His Royal Highness the Duke of York will formally open the University of Strathclyde’s multi-million pound Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) today (Wednesday 19 January) during a visit to Scotland.

The world-class research centre pioneers forming and forging techniques to support manufacturing for the aerospace, energy, marine and automobile industries, and is expected to set new standards in manufacturing design.

It is a collaborative venture between the University, Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish Government and internationally renowned engineering firms including Rolls-Royce, Boeing, Mettis Aeropace, TIMET, Aubert & Duval and Barnes Aerospace.

The Royal visit to the centre at Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, comes just days after David Willets, UK Minister for Universities and Science, announced funding for a new industrial doctorate centre at the AFRC to train the manufacturing research leaders of tomorrow. Postgraduate students will undertake an intensive, broad-based research programme as well as a taught programme in partnership with industry.

Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde, said: “The opening of the Advanced Forming Research Centre is an important milestone in Strathclyde’s long and successful history of working with industry, and we are delighted to mark the occasion in such distinguished company.

“The AFRC will cement Scotland’s global reputation for excellence in engineering, and is already receiving demand for research from around the world. The collaborative approach between the University, Scottish Enterprise and leading engineering companies will enable us to be at the forefront of innovation in the high-value manufacturing sector, while making a significant contribution to the wider economy.

“In addition, the new doctoral training course will generate the highly-skilled research leaders of tomorrow, who will work side-by-side with global engineering companies and develop the best possible understanding of industry’s needs.”

Prince Andrew, the Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, will be given a guided tour of the Centre’s leading-edge facilities, which include a high-power electron microscope, a £1.5 million screw press capable of exerting a force of up to 2,000 tonnes with pinpoint accuracy; precision measurement facilities and furnaces capable of temperatures in excess of 1200°C.

In addition, the Centre is to become the only research institute in the UK in possession of super-plastic forming technologies, which will enable researchers to shape complex materials at temperatures of up to 960°C. The facilities will support the manufacture of a range of advanced products for aircraft wings, engines, cars, ships, medical devices and power generation.

Neil Francis, Sector Delivery Director, Scottish Enterprise, said: “We are delighted that His Royal Highness the Duke of York has officially opened the AFRC and look forward to the Centre continuing to enhance Scotland’s global reputation for excellence by providing world class research and development facilities. Scotland has a distinguished history in developing breakthroughs in engineering and manufacturing technologies and we believe the AFRC will provide a conducive breeding ground for new technology that will continue that tradition and have a significant impact on the Scottish economy.”

Stephen Burgess, Chair of the AFRC Board and Manufacturing Processes & Technology Executive at Rolls-Royce, said: “The innovative processes developed at this centre will help transform the competitiveness of manufacturing companies at a local, national and international level. I am confident the AFRC will rapidly establish a world-class reputation and become recognised as a national asset.”

The Duke will continue his visit at the University’s campus in Glasgow city centre where he will meet with senior academic and industry figures. Discussion is expected to focus on how university collaborations with industry can further support inward investment, export opportunities and the creation of more positive conditions for businesses and universities overseas.