NAA Event Review: National Centre for Motorsport Engineering (NCME)
Last month saw our 2024 networking event programme kick-off with a visit to the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering (NCME), based at the University of Bolton.
As the only one of its kind in the UK, this £13 million purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility boasts a range of capabilities including:
• Wind-tunnel testing
• Computer-aided design
• Computational analysis using industry-standard software
• Data analysis
Also housed within the facility is the Electric Vehicle and Sustainability Technology Lab (EVST), which is focused on the development of more sustainable and environmentally-friendly vehicles.
Their industry-driven facilities host student-led academic programmes with a vision of developing outstanding engineers who will shape the future of whichever industry they choose.
Students have the opportunity to study:
• Automotive design
• Chassis dynamics and aerodynamics
• General engineering
• Motorsport and trackside technology
• Engines and performance modelling.
The NCME offers the opportunity to learn on the racetrack, in the workshop, in the manufacturing areas, and in the classroom, as well as gaining access to some of the most advanced and contemporary equipment. Although it is a highly competitive industry, the students are able to interact and gain real-life experience working within a number of leading high profile race teams. This experience is significant for their long-term employability after graduation.
Delegates were given a comprehensive tour and presentation of all facilities as well as the brand-new Centre for Advanced Manufacturing (CfAM) which is preparing to offer increased accessibility for companies looking to maximise the benefit of additive manufacturing, through a range of facilities including:
• Powder analysis, characterisation and test of metallic and polymer powders
• A composite space including large and small ovens, a hot press and an autoclave
• An additive manufacturing capability including powder and wire polymers, powder bed fusion of a variety of metals across multiple platforms, and a binder system by Desktop Metal
• A test lab including metallurgical preparation, microscopy, static and dynamic testing, and indentation plastometry alongside chemical and surface measurement and metrology.
The CfAM is always happy to welcome visits and conversations to help find business solutions, provide advice, or inspiration for visitors and students alike.
