Rolls-Royce in research partnership to develop new materials for cleaner, more efficient gas turbines

Power systems company, Rolls-Royce and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, (EPSRC), have announced plans to work jointly with three UK universities in a new £50-million strategic partnership that will develop materials skills and knowledge to support the development of future gas turbines.

The strategic partnership in structural metallic systems for advanced gas turbine applications is the first collaboration of its kind between Rolls-Royce, EPSRC, Birmingham, Cambridge and Swansea universities.

The partnership will include research, fellowships and postgraduate training to help create the next generation of world-class materials scientists and metallurgical engineers.

Gas turbines provide the power for many applications including aircraft, ships and electricity generation. Over the next 10 years, the universities will undertake fundamental materials research that will develop materials required to improve the efficiency and environmental sustainability of these gas turbines.

Ric Parker, director, research and technology, Rolls-Royce, said, ''Materials research is a vital part of ensuring we have the technology and skills needed to deliver gas turbines that will meet our customers' future requirements. The strategic partnership with the EPSRC is an important step in developing these technologies and skills. We look forward to working with our university partners and building on the excellent relationship we already share with them.''

Dave Delpy, chief executive of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, said, "This exciting programme of research and training will help create the next generation of metallurgy specialists. These specialists are essential to the global competitiveness of UK manufacturing companies and the development of new materials from their research will play an important role in the future needs of industry and the wider society.''