University of Birmingham: New Centre for Flow Processing will turn research into sustainable industrial solutions
Pipes are used universally to transfer fluids from place to place, but they can also be used to heat or cool fluids, to mix them and to carry out reactions. The new CALGAVIN research centre is about optimising conditions in pipe flow in order to do all these things, by design of sophisticated flow-modifying inserts.
The Centre will use mathematical modelling to design such inserts, which can then be made by processes such as 3D printing and rapidly tested in CALGAVIN’s state-of-the-art test rigs and in the University’s advanced flow imaging facilities.
A current joint research project supported by Innovate UK has successfully demonstrated this approach for highly viscous liquids, typical of polymers and foodstuffs, leading to a new CALGAVIN product range.
The Centre, which will be located near CALGAVIN’s current base in Alcester, Worcestershire, will be the focal point for the integration of both fundamental university-led research as well as commercial, application-specific research.
The new Centre will provide undergraduate students with hands-on training and experience of industrial projects that address real-life practical challenges. The Centre will also undertake joint research projects in which postgraduate students, research staff and academics will work alongside industrial process engineers and product developers to turn research into applications.
The School of Chemical Engineering is proud to be working alongside CALGAVIN on the exciting new Centre for Flow Processing, which is a terrific opportunity for students and staff of the University to work in collaboration with CALGAVIN’s staff on projects with huge industrial impact.
Professor Gary Leeke Head of School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham
As we have worked with The School of Chemical Engineering since the beginning of our business here at CALGAVIN, we have been able to benefit from the valuable insights students bring to our innovation programmes. We are very proud and honoured to have this mutually valuable relationship and are very excited by this highly ambitious, collaborative development.
Martin Gough, Founder and Managing Director, CALGAVIN
Founded over 40 years ago, CALGAVIN is a global technical consultant, developer, and manufacturer of unique thermal enhancement options for the process industries.
Birmingham’s partnership with CALGAVIN began in 1980, when a small research and pilot production facility was set up. Since then, the partnership has developed, centred on Birmingham’s School of Chemical Engineering. Over the years, CALGAVIN has employed many students through industrial placement and joint research projects, some of whom are now members of its highly-skilled staff team.