World-Leading Research Hub in Advanced Manufacturing
The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) is a global leader in cutting-edge research, innovation, and training, connecting industry with academia to develop next-generation manufacturing technologies. The AMRC works with nearly 100 industry partners, including aerospace and automotive giants such as Airbus and McLaren. Its mission focuses on advancing sustainable, net-zero manufacturing processes that drive productivity and competitiveness for industries worldwide.
Streamlining Material Data Access for Efficiency
The AMRC’s design and prototyping group (DPG), established in 2013, plays a vital role in developing innovative solutions for the centre’s industrial partners. Working on projects with high technical requirements, the team found it increasingly challenging to access accurate material data. Prior to integrating a comprehensive database, they relied on fragmented sources for material properties, leading to delays in material selection and a time-consuming process of verifying data from multiple references. This lack of a centralised resource hindered efficiency and project timelines.
Transforming Material Selection for Cutting-Edge Prototyping
To address these challenges, an integrated state-of-the art material database solution was installed, which now provides the AMRC design and prototyping group with seamless access to verified material information. The database allows the team to quickly retrieve, compare, and select materials based on detailed properties, standards, and compatibility with their analysis software. Furthermore, the ability to generate sustainability reports for each Bill of Materials (BOM) aligns with the AMRC’s mission of promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.
Core Benefits: Speed, Precision, and Sustainability
The AMRC’s DPG’s decision to implement a centralised material information platform has produced significant advantages for their research and prototyping efforts, including:
- Enhanced Efficiency: The team can now source materials from a single, accurate database, reducing the time spent searching for material properties and cross-referencing data from different sources.
- Increased Data Confidence: Having trialled multiple databases, the DPG selected this solution for its accuracy and comprehensive material datasets, resulting in more reliable project outcomes.
- Sustainability Insights: Generating BOM sustainability reports helps to support the centre’s green manufacturing goals, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into the design process.
DPG’s investment in an advanced material database has paid off by saving time and enhancing the accuracy of material selections. These improvements have enabled the design and prototyping group to deliver projects more efficiently, with fewer delays and greater confidence in their material decisions. When additional support is needed, the platform’s customer service team provides expert guidance, ensuring the team can resolve challenges quickly.
Advice for Industrial Innovators
For organisations seeking to streamline material research and enhance project efficiency, the DPG advises adopting a centralised material data solution. By reducing the time spent searching through fragmented resources and increasing the precision of material selection, businesses can improve project timelines, boost productivity, and enhance their competitive edge.