Precision machining company AE Aerospace will be the first UK SME to use a 5G private network in a new 5G use case study, following a partnership with the WM5G programme.
A multi-million-pound initiative established by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCG) and UK government to set-up a region-wide 5G testbed, the study will see AE Aerospace take part in three 5G-enabled trials, powered by BT’s EE mobile network.
Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Manufacturing is the bedrock of the West Midlands economy and the ability to harness the power of 5G and other new technologies will help our manufacturers to not only remain competitive in a fierce global marketplace but put themselves at the cutting edge.”
The trials are designed to enable AE Aerospace to maximise machine time, provide more accurate assurance that parts have been machined to specification with increased speed and efficiency, and eliminate the need to re-work or replace damaged components impaired in transit.
The aerospace manufacturer said it hoped the project would not only improve productivity but also provide existing clients, including Rolls Royce, Raytheon UK and Moog, with a better quality of service. It also aims to create new business models and new revenue opportunities.
According to AE Aerospace, the trials will allow a precedent to be set that brings the SME aerospace sector forward and into line in terms of ‘on time, in full’ delivery.
The key learnings and best practice from these trials will be shared with the region’s manufacturing industry to help accelerate the adoption of 5G technology within the sector.
