Advanced Technology Centre

The Advanced Technology Centre is an important part of the Group’s investment in future technologies to continuously deliver innovation and value to customers. The Advanced Technology Centre plays a crucial role in Rolls-Royce strategy to pursue excellence and industry leadership through the identification and development of advanced technologies for the next generation of environmentally-friendly engines.

The Advanced Technology Centre has strong engagement with local research partners in Singapore, including research agreements with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Currently more than 35 Rolls-Royce staff and 15 local secondees from A*STAR and local universities are engaged in technology development at the Advanced Technology Centre which also actively provides internship opportunities to local university and polytechnic students.

There are four key areas of activity within the Advanced Technology Centre:

• The Material Support Laboratory focuses on specialist forensic investigation capability through materials assessment and failure analysis as well as Non-Destructive Testing support for in-service engines in the region. In the near future the laboratory will begin research and technology work on advanced materials. The laboratory also provides materials support capability to the Trent engine Assembly and Test Unit, and Wide Chord Fan Blade manufacturing facilities, as well as joint venture operations at Singapore Aero Engine Services Limited (SAESL) and International Engine Components Overhaul (IECO).
• Computational Engineering Research provides support through development of leading edge technologies in optimisation, data mining, modelling and simulation that are used to improve the design of products and business processes. The technologies developed by this team are applied across a wide range of groups within the company from Design Systems to Services.
• Electrical Power and Control Systems  research supports the increasing electrical technology requirements from all Rolls-Royce business sectors. The team develops advanced capability in health monitoring of electrical systems as well as an enhanced understanding of the interaction between electrical and mechanical systems. These technologies help increase the robustness of electrical systems to provide uninterrupted service.
• Manufacturing Technology Research  serves Rolls-Royce globally and has an extensive programme supporting the Wide Chord Fan Blade manufacturing facility at the Seletar Campus. The research focus is on the development of surface modification technologies including robotised finishing, media finishing and sub-surface. The technologies developed by this team help in the understanding and automation of manufacturing processes leading to increased standardisation, reduction in cost and elimination of Health, Safety and Environmental concerns.