Aerospace Sensor Technologies: Ensuring Nanoscale Manufacturing Integrity, Thu 10 Mar 2011 - BAWA, Bristol

Micro and nano scale sensor technologies provide the aerospace industry with opportunities to benefit from materials with new, improved properties tailored to meet its future commercial, legislative and safety challenges.

The major technology challenges for the aerospace industry are rooted in its further globalisation:
Air traffic is anticipated to increase as emerging countries continue to strengthen their manufacturing economies and their populations benefit from the resultant wealth generation. Structural Health Monitoring programmes build in-situ sensor systems, analogous to the human nervous system (bio mimicry), to recognise any compromise in areas of critical structural integrity.

Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) allow turbines to perform safely and reliably at higher, more fuel efficient temperatures. Ongoing development of multi-functional sensor coatings that achieve the dual requirements of higher turbine efficiency and lower gaseous emissions, and the monitoring of temperature, erosion and phase changes, are projected to reduce maintenance costs and improve safety standards.

There is an ongoing requirement for more sophisticated security measures to counter the pervasive threat of terrorism. Sensors to enhance safety and security are required to prevent an attack being initiated. Nano wire sensors are extremely sensitive to small changes in electro-chemical potential, making them ideal for the early detection of different gases (from explosives) and biological/chemical toxins.

This unique 1-day event will highlight the solutions to key challenges facing the development of novel, integrated sensor technology by the aerospace industry. Manufacturers from within the aerospace supply chain (and those that aspire to join it) and instrumentation and process equipment companies will benefit from the high quality presentations and networking opportunities in this important and rapidly expanding area of aviation design.

Speakers & Topics include:

Welcome & Introduction
Paul Newbatt, CEMMNT

Thermal Barrier Coatings: An Innovative Sensor Solution for Turbines
Dr Joerg Feist, Southside Thermal Sciences Ltd/Imperial College

Nanoscale Interferometric Analysis of Turbine Blade Surfaces
Dr John Fretwell, Ametek Taylor Hobson Ltd

Novel Sensor Design Criteria for the ‘All Electric Aircraft'
Alan Still, Qudos Technology Ltd.

Micro Manufacturing – Precisely!
Dr. Svetan Ratchev, Precision Manufacturing Centre, University of Nottingham

Optical Measurement of Micro Manufactured Parts
Brian Kyte, Alicona UK Ltd

Applications of Micro & Nano Technologies in the Defence Industry
Dr. Ian Sturland, BAE Systems

Simulation & Modelling Software Designed for MEMS Manufacture
Dr Chris Welham, Coventor

Registration
A discounted rate of £95 +VAT will be charged to members of the NanoKTN* and CEMMNT. The standard cost is £145 +VAT for non-members.
Organisations and individuals wishing to attend should email a completed registration form to: Natasha.taylor@nanoktn.com..