Visual Components, Master Fluid Solutions and QualiChem have all joined the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) as tier two partners.

The companies, who join a wider cast of more than 90 partners at the AMRC, further strengthen its robust collaborative industrial network and have been welcomed by Matt Farnsworth, commercial director at the AMRC. He said: “We’re delighted to have our new partners on board, bringing in diverse expertise from advanced simulation to cutting-edge fluid technologies. 

“These strategic partnerships will truly enhance our collective capabilities across vital manufacturing disciplines, underscoring the AMRC’s value as a crucial innovation hub dedicated to addressing industry challenges and driving future progress for UK manufacturing."

Visual Components, a pioneer in 3D manufacturing simulation, has a long-standing relationship with the AMRC. Known for its intuitive software and focus on digital transformation, the company helps manufacturers bring concepts to life: from planning layouts and simulating processes, to programming and executing with robots.

Mikko Urho, chief executive officer of Visual Components, said that the tier two partnership is a ‘culmination of years of positive collaboration’. He said: "We're excited to officially become a partner of the AMRC. This partnership will allow us to share our technologies, gain networking opportunities and help us strengthen our position in the UK's manufacturing simulation software market."

Joining as a new partner, Master Fluid Solutions is a global leader with almost 75 years of experience in the metalworking fluids industry.  Its innovative products are designed to improve manufacturing processes, reduce costs and enhance sustainability of operations across various industries.

Dean Richmond, global director of aerospace at Master Fluid Solutions, expressed pride over joining the AMRC’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem. He added: "For decades, we've supplied advanced cutting fluids to the global aerospace and defense industries. This membership will strengthen our industry relationships and allow us to continue supporting innovation in these critical sectors.

“This partnership offers us a vital pathway to gain direct insights into industry needs and challenges, ensuring our innovations meet real-world demands for improved performance, lowered costs and enhanced product health, safety and sustainability.”

QualiChem, another global supplier of advanced metalworking fluids, develops solutions for the most demanding materials and machining environments, particularly in the aerospace, defense and nuclear sectors. 

John Wiley, director for global marketing at QualiChem recognised that the company's commitment to developing high-performance metalworking fluids aligns seamlessly with the AMRC’s mission to push the boundaries of manufacturing innovation. 

He said: "Through our partnership with the AMRC, we’re excited to collaborate with world-class researchers, manufacturers and technology leaders shaping the future of flight and energy. 

"It gives us the opportunity to collaborate not only with aircraft OEMs but also with leaders in machine tool and cutting tool technology, and there's no better place to innovate than alongside the companies shaping the future of your core markets."

AMRC partnership will allow all three companies to be able to participate in, and obtain the results of all generic research projects, as well as being represented on the AMRC’s industrial board. Partnership is open to any company which works in a complementary area, or which may wish to support the AMRC’s research programmes.