Fostering Sustainability Through Innovation: John Crane's Partnership with Sheffield University
As industries around the world strive towards a more sustainable future, partnerships between academia and business have become a critical enabler for innovation. At John Crane, we recognise the importance of these collaborations to accelerate our progress in developing technologies that support both the energy transition and our sustainability goals. Our partnership with Sheffield University exemplifies this approach, as we push boundaries in tribology, materials and manufacturing technology—all while reinforcing our commitment to sustainability.
The Strategic Value of Collaboration
Our partnership with Sheffield University is more than just a typical industry-university relationship. By working closely with Sheffield, we gain access to a wealth of academic expertise, particularly in areas like gaseous technology, materials science, tribology and lubrication science, and mechanical engineering. These are crucial technologies and disciplines that form the backbone of many industries, such as renewable energy. Through this collaboration, we aim to tackle some of the most pressing challenges posed by the energy transition, including the need for more durable and efficient mechanical seals.
As Klaus Meck, Director of Research and Innovation at John Crane, explains, "Sheffield offers technical expertise and the ability to work across a wide range of projects, from very early-stage research to scalable projects in tribology, materials and manufacturing technology." This full-spectrum collaboration allows us to develop solutions that evolve from initial research through to commercialisation, ensuring we remain at the forefront of technological innovation.
Sustainability at the Core
An important aspect of this collaboration is its focus on sustainability-driven projects. With the energy transition placing new demands on equipment—especially the frequent start-stop cycles required by renewable energy sources—there is a critical need for robust materials and technologies. “We’re looking at materials and surface technologies to help mechanical seals manage these extreme conditions, particularly in energy transition applications, where energy generation or processes are governed by renewables, and machines may switch on and off very frequently,” adds Meck. These innovations are crucial for supporting both John Crane's and our customers' sustainability objectives.
Preparing for the Future
In addition to advancing research, the partnership with Sheffield helps raise awareness of John Crane among the next generation of engineers and scientists. By engaging with students on group engineering projects and through mentorship programs, we aim to cultivate talent and position ourselves as a leader in innovative, sustainable technologies.
In partnering with Sheffield University, John Crane is advancing our technological capabilities and strengthening our commitment to helping customers reduce their environmental impact, ensuring a more sustainable future for everyone.