Description of the contract
Magnetic Materials and Applications (MAGMA) is a single-Beneficiary Operation led by Cardiff University. MAGMA aims to establish a nationally leading research capability in Cardiff University with recognised expertise in the processing, characterisation, manufacturing and recycling of specialist magnetic materials.
This Operation builds on the existing capacity and track-record of a specialist team in the School of Engineering, Cardiff University, through investment in refurbished state-of-the-art facilities and new academic roles, to establish a compelling combination and breadth of academic expertise alongside commitments from major industry partners, that builds towards a centre of excellence within Europe for Magnetic Materials within 5-7 years.
The key challenges which will be addressed are:
• Acceleration of the development of new and enhanced magnetic materials through alloy development, surface engineering and coatings, process development and late stage diversification
• Fundamental understanding and modelling of physical processes linked to manufacturing and application parameters to enable material property prediction and accurate device simulation
• Creation of characterisation capability to meet the requirements of new applications and materials
• Detailed analysis of the life-cycle and supply chain of these materials are needed which will drive innovation in resource and energy optimisation.
MAGMA will address ERDF Programme Priority Axis 1: Research and Innovation, and will contribute towards transformational change under Specific Objective (SO) 1.1: to, “increase the success of Welsh research institutions in attracting competitive and private research funding”.
MAGMA’s targets include capturing more research funding for Wales, adding new members of staff to the research group, and refurbishing and expanding existing research facilities used by the group, leveraging additional investment from industry partners in the process. This operation is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund via Welsh Government (£1.05m in total), Cardiff University and industrial partners.
As part of the operation MAGMA is purchasing a floor standing, general purpose chamber furnace; with retort and semi-automatic gas system. This document invites a tender for this.
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