Abstract: A computer implemented method of modelling the degradation of at least a component within an abrasive environment, the method comprising: obtaining a 3D scan of a surface of a component, processing the surface images of the component, determining the surface properties, inputting the data into a trained prediction model, predicting the performance of the component, and simulating the surface evolution over time or use of the component.

Abstract: A computer implemented method of modelling the degradation of at least a component within an abrasive environment, the method comprising: obtaining a 3D scan of a surface of a component, processing the surface images of the component, determining the surface properties, inputting the data into a trained prediction model, predicting the performance of the component, and simulating the surface evolution over time or use of the component.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a component is provided. The method includes performing a machining operation by moving a rotating, abrasive grinding tool along a feed direction to remove material from the component. At least the part of the component from which the material is removed is formed of composite material. The abrasive grinding tool follows a trochoidal path along the feed direction.

Abstract: Method of reducing the thickness of a bore of a cylindrical workpiece for use as a gear. The method involves the steps of: mounting a cylindrical workpiece having a horizontal central axis and an outer diameter in a grinding machine; and grinding the bore of the cylindrical workpiece to reduce its thickness using a grinding wheel that has a diameter that is from 40% to 80% of the outer diameter of the cylindrical bore and has a direction of rotation about an axis of rotation that is parallel to the horizontal central axis of the cylindrical workpiece. The axis of rotation of the grinding wheel may be located from 90 degrees to 180 degrees, in the direction of rotation of the grinding wheel, from a plane that extends vertically through the workpiece when it is mounted in the grinding machine. The gear may be one of a planetary, sun, parallel axis or helical gear.

Abstract: A method of: (i) providing a mould, comprising a mould body and a mould cavity; (ii) positioning the workpiece within the mould cavity; (iii) providing a plurality of part locator rods, each rod being located in the mould body and protruding into the mould cavity, a distal end of each rod abutting against an outer surface of the workpiece; (iv) providing a fluid, the fluid filling a void defined between an outer surface of the workpiece and an internal surface of the mould cavity; (v) cooling the mould, workpiece and fluid to below a freezing point of the fluid; (vi) removing the workpiece encapsulated in frozen fluid, from the cavity, with the rods protruding from outer surface of frozen fluid; (vii) securing the encapsulated workpiece on a machine tool; and (viii) using the protruding part locator rods to position the workpiece on the machine tool in readiness for machining operation.