Proxima Presents HIPNOTIC Project at the Annual ATI Conference - 2024
Proxima Powder Metallurgy recently took the stage at the UK ATI Conference to provide an exciting update on their Innovate UK ‘HIPNOTIC’ project—an innovative approach to leveraging PM-HIP for aerospace applications. Led by Programme Manager Edward Allen and Engineering Manager Thomas Oulton, Proxima shared key milestones on their journey toward TRL 6 aerospace approval for the PM-HIP process, highlighting the future of advanced manufacturing.
Pioneering the Future of Aerospace Manufacturing
What began as an ambitious concept has since evolved into a pioneering manufacturing solution. Proxima secured funding through the Aerospace Technology Institute in 2021. Since then, our team has worked resolutely to develop PM HIP titanium components that meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry. Operating from a state-of-the-art facility in Sheffield, Proxima employs 20 highly skilled individuals who are driving innovation in this advanced field.
At the conference, Proxima highlighted their key milestones, including significant progress toward TRL 6 approval. Currently, ten aerospace components are undergoing rigorous testing as part of an extensive validation process in collaboration with Airbus R&T. This includes exploring two cutting-edge methods of capsule manufacturing—one being their patented near-net shape process, and the other utilizing complex sheet metal fabrications.
The Industry Challenge & Proxima’s Solution
The aerospace supply chain is under immense pressure due to global conflicts, material shortages, and rising demand for titanium components. PM HIP offers a game-changing alternative to traditional forging and casting methods by eliminating the need for costly hard tooling, reducing lead times, and significantly improving material efficiency.
Proxima's proprietary process allows for the manufacture of near-net shape components with unprecedented design freedom, reducing raw material input and machining time. Testing at Nikken Kosakusho Europe Ltd., based in the AMRC (Advanced Machining Manufacturing Research Centre) in Sheffield, has demonstrated PM-HIP titanium alloy offers a 60% increase in tool life due to its isotropic microstructure, demonstrating one aspect of the savings that PM HIP can bring.
A Call to Action for the Aerospace Industry
With TRL6 aerospace approval in sight, Proxima is poised to take the next step toward full-scale production and invites industry to join us on this transformative journey. With a mature process, validated data, and real-world applications, Proxima is ready to deliver cost-effective, high-performance components to the market.
Proxima is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, supporting UK manufacturing, and ensuring that vital aerospace technologies continue to thrive. With Airbus TRL 6 in sight, Proxima is poised to take the next step toward full-scale production—and invites the industry to join them on this transformative journey.
For more information on how Proxima can support your manufacturing needs, visit their website or contact their team today.