HRH Duke of York opens world-class research centre at Strathclyde
10/06/2011
His Royal Highness the Duke of York has formally opened the University of Strathclyde’s multi-million pound Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC). 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 Aerospace, IIMET, Aubert & Duval and Barnes Aerospace. Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde, said: “The opening of the AFRC 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.” Prince Andrew, the Special Representative for International Trade and Investment, was given a guided tour of the centre’s leading-edge facilities, which include a high-power electron microscope, a 2000 tonne screw press and Zwick electro-mechanical and servo-hydraulic test machines equipped with high-temperature furnaces and laser extensometry.
The facilities will support the manufacture of a range of advanced products for aircraft wings, engines, cars, ships, medical devices and power generation.
www.zwick.com
