The Coventry-based Manufacturing Technology Centre has made a six-figure investment in its industry leading laser processing capability, with the installation of a Synova LCS305 waterjet guided laser.

The five-axis system, the only one currently in operation in the UK, allows engineers to cut, drill or machine complex shapes without the drawbacks associated with traditional laser machining such as heat build up or tapers. It can machine a range of materials including ceramics, hard-to-machine alloys and composites among others.

Bethan Smith, MTC technology manager, said the waterjet guided laser would allow the MTC to develop and use the latest technology to support industries across the UK with their manufacturing challenges.

She said: “For example, we will be helping to develop production solutions for the machining of lightweight, high-performance, hard to machine materials that will be crucial in helping manufacturing businesses hit the UK's upcoming net zero targets.

“As Synova is a Tier Two member of the MTC we also look forward to working with the company to bring the latest machine developments and innovations for this technology to our customers."



Bernold Richerzhagen, Synova chief executive, said: “We are excited about the partnership with the MTC which is known to be the innovation and technology hub for the manufacturing industry in the UK. We look forward to participating in joint research projects, learning about new industrial applications and benefiting from the organisation’s vast know-how and network."

He added: “Together with our expertise in wet laser machining we believe we can be a competent partner for the MTC to advance manufacturing solutions for aeronautics and other sectors, among others on super-alloys, ceramics and CMC.”

The MTC was founded by the University of Birmingham, Loughborough University, the University of Nottingham and TWI Ltd. The MTC’s industrial members include some of the UK’s major global manufacturers.

The MTC aims to provide a competitive environment to bridge the gap between university-based research and the development of innovative manufacturing solutions, in line with the Government’s manufacturing strategy. The MTC is part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, supported by Innovate UK.