Flying longer, flying greener at Birmingham

New materials for aeroengines allow more repairs, fewer replacements and greener flying

A research collaboration between Rolls Royce plc and researchers at the University of Birmingham’s School of Metallurgy and Metals has resulted in a breakthrough new technology which is saving the company millions of pounds every year.

The university’s researchers applied their dual expertise in metallurgy and new laser technology to develop a new means of repairing wear and tear in vital aeroengine components, using lasers to apply a thin layer of metal alloys.

The technology means that Rolls Royce no longer need to replace the worn out components with entirely new ones, saving them millions of pounds. It has also had significant environmental benefits through reducing the company’s use of raw materials and the need for an energy-hungry manufacturing process.

The university’s researchers delivered a rapid and efficient solution for Roll's Royce in just three years. Yet the expertise which underpinned the work resulted from over 20 years of research and investement in fundamental metallurgical science and advanced manufacturing research.