Sigma Components, a leading manufacturer of precision-engineered components and fixings for the aerospace sector, has secured €1.8 million funding from the CleanSky Program to develop composite pipe assemblies for use in aero engine applications.

The 18-month project, which is supported by Rolls-Royce, will see Sigma engineers working in consortium with TWI Ltd in Cambridge working to reduce the weight of traditional pipe assemblies – improving aircraft's environmental performance - while ensuring they are capable of withstanding the arduous operating environment of an aero engine.

Mike Andreae, consortium coordinator for the project at Sigma Components said: “We're delighted to be involved with the CleanSky program, which aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy of developing new technologies.

“Composites are now being used more extensively across both airframe and aero-engine applications and, given the consortium's strong track record designing, manufacturing and joining composite components, as well as over 40 years experience supplying metallic pipe assemblies for aerospace applications, the project is a natural fit.”

CleanSky is an EU-based public-private partnership to develop breakthrough technologies that will significantly improve the environmental performance of aeroplanes and air transport. It is supported by many of the aerospace primes in Europe including Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Snecma and AugustaWestland.