Teesside University and Saturn Turbo Services partnership to drive Industry 4.0 innovation

Teesside University has joined forces with Saturn Turbo Services in a pioneering Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to transform the way rotating equipment is serviced and maintained.

This collaboration is introducing Industry 4.0 technologies to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and reduce environmental impact across the sector.

The KTP, supported by Teesside University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies, focuses on digitalising Middlesbrough firm Saturn Turbo Services' reverse engineering and service operations.

By integrating advanced software and automation, the project aims to minimise manufacturing waste, enhance productivity, and cut CO2 emissions, delivering tangible benefits for both the company and the wider engineering industry.

Saturn Turbo Services specialises in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of steam turbines and compressors, providing engineering solutions for rotating machinery worldwide.

The partnership draws on Teesside University’s research expertise to tackle challenges such as obsolete parts, material identification, and complex component procurement, which are issues that hinder efficiency in the sector.

Principal investigator Dr Manu Ramegowda, Senior Lecturer in Mechanical and Civil Engineering, said: “Industry 4.0 serves as a comprehensive framework that facilitates the digitalisation process within the engineering sector. While its origins are rooted in engineering, successful implementation necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration among industry and academic experts.

“The digitalisation process is particularly complex in the service sector, owing to challenges related to component procurement, obsolete parts, materials identification, and manufacturing. Companies such as Saturn Turbo Services play a critical role in servicing steam turbines and compressors, which are integral to essential engineering services within the UK economy.”

Clive Howseman, Spares and Repairs Manager of Saturn Turbo Services, said: “Working with Teesside University has allowed us to explore Industry 4.0 solutions that would have been impossible to achieve alone. This partnership is helping us move from manual processes to a fully digital workflow, strengthening our capabilities and future-proofing our business.”

This initiative marks the first application of Industry 4.0 within engineering service contexts, positioning Teesside University and Saturn Turbo Services as leaders in digital transformation for rotating equipment.

The project promises long-term benefits for local and national manufacturing industries, reinforcing the region’s reputation for innovation.

For more information about Teesside University’s KTP initiatives, contact ktp@tees.ac.uk or business@tees.ac.uk.

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