Abstract: A method of applying an electroplated layer to a surface of a polymeric composite material, the method includes the steps of: providing an uncured polymeric composite substrate; positioning a veil layer over a surface of the uncured polymeric composite substrate, the veil layer providing a conductive surface on the uncured polymeric composite substrate, the veil layer having a mat of metal coated fibres consolidated by an organic binder material; subjecting the uncured polymeric composite substrate to a curing cycle to form a cured polymeric composite material in which the veil layer is partially exposed; and applying an electroplated layer to the conductive surface of the cured polymeric composite material.

Abstract: An abradable sealing element is positioned radially outwardly of a plurality of aerofoil blades of a gas turbine engine. The abradable sealing element comprises a radially inwardly facing surface region and a plurality of cooling holes. The radially inwardly facing surface region comprises a wall structure, with the wall structure having one or more radially inwardly projecting walls formed by additive layer, powder fed, laser weld deposition. Each of the inwardly projecting walls is continuous and defines a plurality of repeating units arranged circumferentially around the radially inwardly facing surface region, each repeating unit is open at a radially inwardly facing side of the sealing element, and each repeating unit comprises a plurality of curved portions forming a multi-lobed profile shape. Each cooling hole is provided in the radially inwardly facing surface region at a position within the multi-lobed profile shape.

Abstract: A method of applying an electroplated layer to a surface of a polymeric composite material, the method includes the steps of: providing an uncured polymeric composite substrate; positioning a veil layer over a surface of the uncured polymeric composite substrate, the veil layer providing a conductive surface on the uncured polymeric composite substrate, the veil layer having a mat of metal coated fibres consolidated by an organic binder material; subjecting the uncured polymeric composite substrate to a curing cycle to form a cured polymeric composite material in which the veil layer is partially exposed; and applying an electroplated layer to the conductive surface of the cured polymeric composite material.