TWI
TWI is one of Europe’s leading independent research and technology organisations, renowned for its expertise and technical excellence in advanced manufacturing, materials, and systems. With a longstanding commitment to supporting the space sector through innovative research, consultancy, and development, TWI is proud to serve as the ESA Technology Broker for the UK, facilitating access to the space industry and accelerating the adoption of disruptive technologies aligned with ESA’s strategic priorities.
Through TWI’s in-kind technical contributions, companies participating in the ESA Phi-lab UK programme can access a broad range of specialised services, designed to support their development in space-related projects and technologies.
Services available for Phi-Lab UK applicants:
- Feasibility studies: Early-stage evaluation of materials, processes, or technology concepts for space and sustainability applications. TWI helps assess the viability of new technologies, identifying challenges and recommending solutions for space-ready innovations.
- Prototyping and demonstrator development: Rapid development of proof-of-concept hardware or functional demonstrators using cutting-edge fabrication and joining techniques. TWI’s advanced manufacturing capabilities ensure that prototypes meet the stringent demands of space applications.
- Process development and optimisation: Tailored support to mature manufacturing or inspection processes to meet the rigorous performance, sustainability, or space qualification requirements. TWI helps optimise processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with space industry standards.
- Technology Readiness Level advancement: Expertise in advancing the maturity of enabling technologies through testing, validation, and documentation. TWI supports projects in meeting ESA’s expectations for technology readiness levels (TRLs), ensuring a clear path from concept to space deployment.
- Design for Manufacturing and Design for Sustainability: Guidance on selecting materials, processes, and designs that promote reusability, repairability, and environmental performance. TWI integrates sustainability considerations into the design process, enhancing the long-term viability of space technologies.
- Materials and structural evaluation: Comprehensive characterisation and testing of components under simulated operational environments, including thermal, vacuum, and mechanical loads. TWI evaluates materials and structures to ensure they can withstand the extreme conditions of space.
- Non-Destructive Evaluation and Quality Assurance: Integration of advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) and inspection solutions to support reliability, in-situ monitoring, and life-cycle performance. TWI provides crucial insight into the health and durability of components, reducing the risk of failure during space missions.
- Technical consultancy and bid support: Expert advice on manufacturing challenges, sustainability considerations, and preparation for ESA tenders or development roadmaps. TWI’s consultancy helps companies navigate the complexities of the space sector, ensuring that their projects align with ESA’s priorities and funding opportunities.
Additional opportunities
In addition to the services listed above, TWI is keen to collaborate with Phi-Lab projects as they evolve. We are open to discussing participation in individual projects on a case-by-case basis, offering bespoke solutions that match the specific needs and objectives of the projects.
