Developing an environmentally friendly, low cost solution to reduce wear and improve productivity in metal forming . Tool wear is an increasing problem for automotive manufacturers, resulting in significant loss of manufacturing efficiency. This project will provide new understanding of tool wear, innovative active monitoring systems and novel environmentally friendly lubricants to reduce tool wear.
A novel solution to reducing cavitation wear in hydraulic systems. New coatings will be created which provide exceptional resistance to cavitation corrosion in hydraulic units. This project will enable the implementation of a novel regenerative drive unit for heavy vehicles and reduced fuel consumption. Innovative new coatings of shape memory alloy and diamond like carbon will be developed.