NRC — Aluminium Technology Centre

Who is eligible?

Eligible companies for this grant are those involved in the aluminium transformation sector and seeking to improve their manufacturing processes, develop lighter products, and enhance environmental sustainability. These companies can benefit from access to cutting-edge scientific infrastructure, expertise in assembly process development, and aluminium forming technologies.

• Companies in the aluminium transformation industry
• Companies aiming to make lighter and more environmentally friendly products
• Companies interested in improving manufacturing processes

Eligible expenses

Eligible projects for this grant involve collaborations and developments in the aluminium transformation industry focusing on enhancing manufacturing processes, and improving product performance and sustainability. These activities span from assembly technologies to characterizing the mechanical and environmental performance of aluminium products.

• Projects utilizing adhesive assembly, including the testing of environmental sustainability and mechanical strength in bonded joints.
• Initiatives incorporating advanced welding techniques such as laser welding, friction stir welding, and robotic arc welding for large aluminium structures.
• Research into aluminium forming processes, including hot forming, hydroforming, and extrusion, especially those that contribute to the automotive sector.
• Development and optimization of semi-solid casting processes for producing high-integrity parts.
• Advanced characterization of aluminium materials using high-resolution SEM, optical microscopy, and 3D X-ray tomography.
• Projects aimed at improving the durability and corrosion resistance of aluminium structures through surface characterization and environmental testing.
• Collaborative research forming part of the METALTec industrial R&D group focusing on lightweight vehicles through aluminium components.

Eligible geographic areas

The grant covers specific expenses directly related to R&D and technological advancements in the aluminium transformation sector.

• Costs associated with utilizing NRC's specialized R&D facilities and equipment for aluminium transformation research.
• Expenses for collaborative research contracts, service agreements, and licensing arrangements with the NRC.
• Costs of accessing expert advice from NRC's scientific and technical personnel.
• Materials and supplies necessary for conducting research and development activities.
• Fees for utilizing advanced testing and metallurgical characterization services.

The NRC Aluminium Technology Centre offers various benefits to grant recipients:

• Access to a large-scale laboratory equipped with advanced technological and research infrastructures.
• Direct collaboration with specialists in aluminium transformation and manufacturing processes.
• Opportunities for industry partnerships to leverage shared expertise in the aluminium transformation industry.
• Support in developing and testing innovative manufacturing solutions using cutting-edge technologies like semisolid casting and hydroforming.
• Opportunity to join the METALTec industrial R&D group, which is focused on vehicle weight reduction through aluminium or multi-material components.
• Facilitation of technology transfer through collaborations, consortia, or licensing agreements.