Machine Nation News Team
August 6, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM
Renishaw Has Collaborated With Irish Manufacturing Research To Support Groundbreaking Research Into Additive Manufacturing For Novel Aerospace Materials
Renishaw, a UK-based engineering firm headquartered in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, announced on June 12, 2025, a collaboration with Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) in Rathcoole, Ireland, to advance additive manufacturing (AM) for novel aerospace materials. Part of a Disruptive Technology Innovation Fund (DTIF) project led by mBryonics, a Galway-based manufacturer of freeform optics for the space industry, the initiative uses a Renishaw RenAM 500Q Flex system installed at IMR’s Mullingar facility. Researchers are developing process parameters for metal 3D printing of freeform optical components for laser-based satellite communications, achieving a 40% reduction in production time compared to conventional machining. The project, targeting a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7+ by autumn 2026, aims to scale mBryonics’ production from single-digit units to hundreds monthly, sustaining 50 jobs in Ireland’s 5,000-strong aerospace workforce. Aligned with President Trump’s 10% global tariffs, it targets a $5 billion aerospace materials market. IMR’s Colin Meade stated, “This research drives scalable, industry-ready AM solutions.”
For the precision machining industry, the Renishaw-IMR collaboration highlights the critical role of taper angle in manufacturing aerospace components. Parts like optical mounts require CNC milling with precise taper angles, typically 1–5 degrees, to achieve tolerances within ±0.0005 inches and surface roughness as low as Ra 4 µin for high-strength alloys. 5-axis milling machines, optimized for taper angle to ensure geometric accuracy, complement AM processes with real-time quality control. The project drives demand for local machine shops to supply precision tooling, adopting Industry 4.0 technologies like AI-driven milling and additive manufacturing. As part of a $50 billion precision manufacturing market, this initiative creates opportunities for suppliers in Ireland, where manufacturing jobs grew 2% since 2022, strengthening aerospace supply chains.
Source:
Renishaw Press Release, June 12, 2025
Source:
Social Media Buzz (powered by X):
X is alight with Renishaw’s IMR collaboration, with posts from June 12–August 3, 2025, calling it a “leap for aerospace 3D printing.” Users praised the 50 jobs sustained, with one noting, “Ireland’s soaring in space tech!” while another tied it to “reshoring advanced manufacturing.” Some questioned the timeline for commercial scalability. The X spark pulses with excitement for innovation but seeks faster industry adoption.
What is the Taper Angle?
This is one of many key terms of our broad Machine Nation Essential Modern Precision Industries Guidebook (MPIG). Click here to get a copy straight to your inbox.
Taper Angle - The angle of a CNC milling tool’s conical surface relative to its axis, measured in degrees, critical for ensuring geometric accuracy and precision in component production.
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Related Tags:
#RenishawIMR #AdditiveManufacturing #TaperAngle #PrecisionMachining #AerospaceOptics #Reshoring