SwRI Breaks Ground On New Facility For Research, Development Of High-Speed Aerospace Engines
Center for Accelerating Materials and Processes: A $34 Million Investment in Aerospace Advancements
SAN ANTONIO – Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) reached an exciting milestone as the groundwork commenced on a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the research and development of high-speed aerospace engines on Monday. This significant escalation in aerospace technology research aims to ensure the United States’ leading role in high-speed propulsion advancements.
“Our steadfast commitment to advancing this critical technology is not only for Texas but the entire nation,” commented Dr. Barron Bichon, Director of SwRI’s Materials Engineering Department.
A Growing Aerospace Industry Necessitates Swift Production Techniques
Once the two-story, 36,600-square-foot facility is fully constructed, SwRI will launch an extensive examination of new materials and processes. The aspiration is to significantly shorten the production timeline of high-speed engines, tackling the need for quicker manufacturing procedures head-on.
The pioneering Center for Accelerating Materials and Processes (CAMP) facility will initially focus on propelling faster and more efficient strategies for producing high-speed propulsion systems.
Dr. Ben Thacker, the Vice President of SwRI’s Mechanical Engineering Division, articulated, “Developing groundbreaking technology that mirrors SwRI’s mission of serving humankind, strengthens our defense capabilities, and broadens global connectivity is our vision for the future.”
Revolutionizing Manufacturing with the CAMP Facility
One of CAMP’s initial tasks is the procurement and installation of manufacturing process test equipment. Under a contract with the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s Manufacturing Science and Technology Program, SwRI engineers will showcase how the new facility significantly trims production times and costs.
There is an increasing demand for high-speed engines owing to various market dynamics such as expanding global defense, growth in air travel sectors, delivery and transportation needs – a need that this facility hopes to meet. Investing a whopping $34 million into the construction of the CAMP facility implies informed trust in the robust potential this facility offers towards the industry’s growth.
SwRI continues to be an industry leader, contributing significantly to technological advancements that directly impact civil society. This new facility stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to progress and innovation, and holds the promise of a brighter future for aerospace sciences and humanity.
About the Southeast Research Institute
Established in 1947 as a Contract R&D provider, the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is among the frontrunners in applied research and development. The independent, nonprofit institute provides clients a unique range of technical services and automated testing solutions. SwRI’s mission of benefitting government, industry, and the public make it integral in solving the world’s most challenging scientific and engineering dilemmas.
