NIMS Taps Ansys for Sustainable Materials Database to Enhance Future Jet Engine Development

The National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), based in Japan, has adopted Ansys' materials data management software, Ansys Granta MI, for the creation of a sustainable materials database aimed at Japanese aircraft manufacturers. This eco-friendly materials intelligence catalog is designed to assist engineers and designers in the selection of cleaner, innovative resources for the development of next-generation jet engines.

Caption: NIMS’ database will be built upon insights from Ansys Granta MI, which provides comprehensive and comparable data for more than 4,000 commercially available engineering materials. Credit: Ansys.

As the urgency for addressing climate change intensifies globally, many aviation industry players have committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. In alignment with this initiative, NIMS is employing Ansys' materials solution to investigate heat-resistant materials that can enhance energy and thermal efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.

By leveraging this data, NIMS, in partnership with the Gas Turbine Society of Japan, intends to provide local aircraft manufacturers with a centralized, domestic database for sustainable materials. This resource is anticipated to curtail the time and financial costs associated with international compliance and clearance for new materials utilization.

Dr. Kyoko Kawagishi, the group leader of the High Temperature Materials Group at NIMS, remarked on the value of the database for local manufacturers. She stated, "With the ability to obtain and verify critical materials data using Ansys' solution, NIMS has started to develop a valuable database for Japanese manufacturers to integrate more sustainability components in local aircraft engine development." She credited the initiative to a national project, 'Development of Materials for Aircraft Engines and Bases for Material Evaluation Systems,' commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

The NIMS' database will draw from the insights of Granta MI, which offers comprehensive and comparable data for more than 4,000 commercially available engineering materials. This encompasses extensive information on metals, polymers, composites, coatings, and specialized materials used in the electromagnetic, medical, and aerospace sectors.

Walt Hearn, senior vice president of worldwide sales and customer excellence at Ansys, commended NIMS for its proactive approach towards the industry's drive to net-zero. He added, "With the support of Ansys' materials solution, NIMS is streamlining the process of materials selection for Japanese aircraft manufacturers, while facilitating access to smarter and cleaner materials. These positive strides bring us all closer to a more sustainable future."

Ansys will be available for more insights on the influence of simulation in the aviation industry at the 2023 Paris Air Show in France, taking place from June 19-25.