Graduate scheme helps local technology company save time and money

A technology and licensing company is able to save time and money on piloting and testing new manufacturing processes thanks to a software application developed with the help of Teesside University.

Plaxica, which has a pilot plant at the Wilton Centre in Redcar, has used Aspentech software to construct a program which allows the company to simulate how different operating conditions affect the manufacturing process.

Plaxica develops next generation biopolymers, particularly polylactic acid (PLA), from renewable resources.

The process simulation program has the potential to save the company large amounts of money and time by increasing efficiency and avoiding costly outlay on piloting equipment. It was developed with the help of a Knowledge Exchange Internship, a specialist graduate programme for business run by Teesside University.

Knowledge Exchange Internships (KEIs) are unique to Teesside University. They are designed to help companies solve challenging problems or implement specific projects by recruiting a talented graduate, with financial support, for up to 12 months.

The graduates are able to draw upon the expertise of staff at the University to help them in their work.

David Gibney, a Cambridge University Chemical Engineering graduate, had a key role in creating and setting up the Aspentech software, which is typically used in process engineering settings.

He said: 'The simulation allows Plaxica to test process modifications prior to implementation on the pilot plant.

'The pilot plant is configured to only run at a small scale, but using the simulation you can estimate process variables at world scale.

'As we gain more confidence in the pilot plant, and the data it produces to validate the model, we are able to deviate from standard operating conditions to optimise the process.'

Andrew Langton, a Senior Process Engineer at Plaxica, added: 'The model is able to prove to potential clients and investors that the process is viable and capable at commercial scales.

'It’s also now part of our knowledge base and can be used for other projects.

'The output from the model will also be used to show potential clients how the process could be configured for their particular requirements.

'As an SME we have a limited research budget, and the KEI enabled us to access relevant expertise.

'We knew that we wanted to recruit a graduate, and the KEI helped to fund that and also gave us the academic support with the University which was fantastic.'

Dr Samantha Gooneratne, Lecturer in Chemical Engineering, who supervised the internship, said: 'Teesside prides itself as a business-facing University that is able to work with companies and look at ways in which we can help them to succeed.

'This was a very interesting project, and we are delighted that the KEI has been able to provide Plaxica with the research expertise to help the company identify ways to operate more efficiently.'

Notes This project is part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, securing £300m investment.

The project will make a major contribution to the ambition of the ERDF Competitive Programme 2007-13 and by increasing the numbers and survival of business start ups in the region and increasing business productivity.

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