Readily adoptable technologies and cutting-edge research in action brought more than 120 industrialists to the University of Sheffield AMRC for its Subtractive Manufacturing Showcase.

The event, which builds on the first successful showcase in 2023, opened the doors to the research home of the AMRC’s subtractive manufacturing experts at Factory of the Future, illustrating how it is supporting industry in subtractive manufacturing research and innovation.

Alongside a keynote address from Dr Gareth Morgan, managing director of AMRC spin-out AML Sheffield, the showcase had subtractive manufacturing technology demonstrations, presentations on the AMRC’s latest research with companies like Sandvik, and tours across its facilities that spanned everything from simulation and coolants, to data and process development.

It is the demonstrators that were the stars of the showcase, featuring a compelling mix of homegrown capability developed at the AMRC, cutting-edge solutions from a diverse group of technology providers, and recent innovations delivered by spin-outs from the AMRC. 

       The demonstrators on the AMRC shoplfoor took centre stage at the showcase. 

Professor David Curtis, head of technical capability for subtractive manufacturing at the AMRC, said: “While the commercial nature of our work makes it challenging to highlight everything we do publicly, this event successfully demonstrated the full spectrum of our support for UK industry. 

“Our capabilities range from fundamental academic research in machining science, to applying the very latest technology solutions. Spotlighting our spin-outs and key researchers, alongside the support of the new MADE4Manufacturing Centre for Doctoral Training cohort, confirmed that we have an excellent pipeline of talent ready for the challenges ahead.”

Attendees saw real-world industrial impact case studies— ranging from small businesses to large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) - and put the spotlight on its latest spin-outs and up-and-coming researchers and innovators. 

Dr Gareth Morgan, managing director of AML in Sheffield, said: “A huge well done to the AMRC for putting on such a fantastic day. 

“The Subtractive Manufacturing Showcase presented lots of technologies that are truly game changing. It was also great to have the opportunity to share AML’s journey and wins.”

Tom McCready, head of the AMRC's machining group, said the event highlighted a focus on readily adoptable technologies for a more sustainable, digital manufacturing landscape.

He added: “The event has helped to connect our engineering team directly with key industrial stakeholders, both within our membership and externally. 

“Opening the doors to our facility and collaborating with a selection of the technology providers we work with is one of the most impactful ways of showing what we do and how we can help. A core value of the AMRC is collaboration and that was really evident throughout the showcase.”

     The Subtractive Manufacturing Showcase was an opportunity to put our expertise and capabilties in the spotlight, giving visitors an inside look into the work we do. 

Professor Ben Morgan, interim chief executive officer at the AMRC, said it was great to see the AMRC buzzing with all things subtractive manufacturing at the showcase. 

He added: “A huge congratulations to all of the machining team in pulling together such rich content. The technologies that were on show are not just clever but are ready to lift productivity and plug into nuclear, defence and advanced manufacturing supply chains.”

Want to learn more about subtractive manufacturing or are interested in working with the AMRC? Find out further information here.