Monash University partners with China’s leading aerospace manufacturer to help build planes of the future

Monash University has entered into a research and development partnership with Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) to help build the next generation of planes for China’s leading aerospace manufacturer.

The partnership will draw on the Monash Centre for Additive Manufacturing (MCAM) experience in developing new 3D printed alloys that are designed to be lighter and stronger than other products, making aircraft safer and more efficient.

Premier Daniel Andrews, who announced the multi-million dollar agreement today during a tour of COMAC’s manufacturing centre in Shanghai, said the deal will create 50 highly specialised new jobs and exciting opportunities for budding engineers in Victoria.

Mr Andrews was also given a preview of the world’s newest commercial passenger jet, the C919, which features 29 components developed by the MCAM and completed its maiden test flight earlier this month.

“Today’s agreement will see COMAC and Monash University further their collaboration, designing specialised new alloys and metal 3D printed components,” the Premier said.

“Not only is this partnership with COMAC an exciting opportunity to promote our research and manufacturing capabilities on the world stage – it will also create 50 Victorian jobs. The work being done at Monash is world leading and cements Victoria’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for the aviation and aerospace industries.”

Monash President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Gardner AO said the agreement will provide Monash students, researchers and academics opportunities for exchange, and talented COMAC engineers and executives will be able to undertake research in Victoria.

“The Memorandum of Understanding opens up invaluable opportunities for Monash researchers and students to work on next generation COMAC projects,” Ms Gardner added.

“Monash makes a tremendous contribution to the Australian economy through its global networks, world class research and education excellence. This agreement is welcome recognition of our ability to translate that expertise into real impact and benefit for Australia and our international partners.”