Innovate UK

Productive Machines specializes in software optimization for the machining industry, helping manufacturers enhance productivity and sustainability. The company utilizes a digital twin of the machining process, incorporating physics, mechanics, dynamics, distortion, and vibration data to simulate and test millions of parameters. This approach allows manufacturers to refine their CAM and Gcode, ultimately improving part quality and reducing cycle times. By addressing issues such as chatter vibrations and tooling costs, Productive Machines enables machining companies to achieve better surface finishes and dimensional accuracy, streamlining their operations and reducing costs. The company emerged as a spin-out from the UK Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, reflecting its commitment to advancing manufacturing technologies.

Meritor, Inc. is a global supplier specializing in drivetrain, braking, mobility, and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicles and industrial markets. With over a century of experience, the company designs, develops, and manufactures a wide range of components, including axles, drivelines, braking systems, and suspension solutions, primarily for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, buses, and off-highway equipment. Meritor operates through two main segments: Commercial Truck, which focuses on original equipment manufacturers, and Aftermarket and Industrial, which serves replacement part customers. The company also provides complementary products such as brake shoes, automatic slack adjusters, and shock absorbers. Headquartered in Troy, Michigan, Meritor employs over 9,000 people across various global locations, serving markets in North America, South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. Meritor was founded in 1909 and was formerly known as ArvinMeritor, Inc. before rebranding in 2011.

CVE designs and builds process solutions and has more than 60 years experience manufacturing Electron Beam (EB) systems and Vacuum Furnaces (VF’s) from its base in Cambridge UK. CVE’s range of equipment includes systems ranging from 50 to 200 kV with beam powers up to 100 kW. Professional engineering skills are applied to customer requirements resulting in innovative solutions to technical problems. The company's skilled workforce, experienced engineering department and extensive service team are backed up with a range of in-house test and diagnostic facilities. CVE offers true global coverage from itssales and service centres in the UK and worldwide. Cambridge Vacuum Engineering's roots begin in the late 1950's in Cambridge, England with the founding of Torvac, a company specialising in the manufacture of Electron Beam Welders and Vacuum Furnaces. A break-a-way group formed Wentgate Engineers in the mid 1960's and for many years the two companies traded in competition. Torvac purchased the Hawker Siddley Dynamics "Dynaweld" technology, which added 150kV welders to their range.

The University of Birmingham, established in 1900, is a non-profit educational institution located in the United Kingdom, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as life sciences, arts, law, research, and technology. With a longstanding tradition of innovation, the University emphasizes cutting-edge research that expands the boundaries of knowledge and positively impacts society. Its Birmingham Centre for Energy Storage (BCES) unites research expertise to promote the commercialization of innovative energy storage technologies, particularly focusing on thermal and cryogenic systems. The University also manages an endowment fund that supports various academic initiatives, including scholarships and research programs, thereby enhancing its contributions to education and public service. As it evolves, the University remains committed to addressing new challenges and opportunities, further establishing its reputation on the international stage.

Actuation Lab specializes in manufacturing machine components designed for industries operating in extreme environments, such as marine, mining, and offshore sectors. The company focuses on addressing the challenges of high servicing requirements and limited longevity associated with traditional actuators. By utilizing innovative technology known as the Callimorph, which generates movement through fluid pressure-induced morphing, Actuation Lab's components are resilient, powerful, and lightweight. This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also reduces servicing and handling costs, allowing industries to streamline their processes and improve overall performance.

Lontra Limited is an engineering firm specializing in the design and development of advanced air and gas compressors, as well as engines for various applications, including wastewater aeration, automotive supercharging, and industrial air compression. The company's flagship product, the Blade Compressor, has demonstrated significant energy savings in practical applications, such as a 20 percent reduction in energy costs for Severn Trent Water. Lontra also produces a range of other products, including a rotary compressor for industrial air markets, a displacement supercharger for gasoline and diesel engines, and the Lindsey Engine for electricity generation and marine power applications. With a focus on innovation, Lontra is expanding into diverse industries such as food and drink, pharmaceuticals, and power generation. Founded in 2004 and based in Napton-on-the-Hill, United Kingdom, the company has garnered support from various partners and has received multiple grants and awards for its contributions to energy efficiency and technological advancement.