The Institute of Grinding Technology (IGT@UWE) is involved in fundamental research activities and specialises in technology transfer activities aimed at assisting all industries involved in abrasive machining processes.

It was set up in 1986 at the University of Bristol , specifically to work closely with industry, following a major 10 year programme of fundamental research into the grinding process as part of a national programme across a number of universities. DTI funded applied research projects were carried out in the areas of creep feed grinding and internal grinding with CBN wheels. Technology transfer activities evolved out of these projects, particularly the Annual IGT Seminar, Training Programmes and the Grinding Manual. Consultancy services are provided, including monitoring of grinding processes, advice on coolant application and measurement of vibration. An industrial Membership scheme is available and Members sit on an advisory council.

At the start of 2004, the IGT transferred to the University of the West of England, Bristol to share the facilities of the RAMP Laboratory, which was opened in April 2003. This brings together machining and grinding activities under the umbrella of the AMRC, so that both groups can benefit from the synergy.

More information is available at http://www.uwe.ac.uk/cems/research/centres/amrc/igt.html