Cern start-up
Cern’s Large Hadron Collider is to run at an initial energy of 3.5 TeV per beam when it starts up in November. Cern said the energy level is lower than originally planned to give operators experience of running the machine safely.
Satellite tracks
Siemens is to open a rolling stock test and validation centre in Germany to look at satellite-based navigation technology for railways. The company said that satellite-based navigation could play a future role in automatic train control.
Keeping watch
The Watchkeeper unmanned aerial vehicle by Thales has completed its inaugural flights. Watchkeeper will provide UK armed forces with intelligence and surveillance and is due to enter service next year.
Dying wind
Vestas has confirmed that it will cease wind turbine blade production at its sites on the Isle of Wight and in Southampton, with 425 job losses. The company will continue R&D activities on the Isle of Wight.
Drive on
A futuristic driverless vehicle, due to operate at Heathrow airport from next year, has gone on show at the Science Museum in London. The British-designed four-passenger vehicle is capable of speeds of up to 25mph.
University challenge
The University of Liverpool has finished installing a £14 million combined heating and power system. The project, which is being carried out by engineering firm Emcor, includes the construction of a 47-metre chimney.
Charge review
Volvo has persuaded London major Boris Johnson to review the Congestion Charge alternative fuel exemption which it believes is biased towards hybrid cars over other low-emission vehicles.
Nuclear store trials
A trial of an onsite storage system for intermediate level nuclear waste has been completed at the NDA’s Dungeness site in Kent and could be used elsewhere in the Magnox estate. The Ministores weigh 18 tonnes and hold up to about 2.85m3 of waste each.
Frigate refit
The Type 23 frigate HMS Westminster is to undergo an eight-month upgrade by Babcock at the Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth. The ship will receive a new command system and a mid-life upgrade to its SeaWolf missile system.
Spread the word
Professor John Robinson, head of the department of electronics at the University of York, has given a lecture from the fourth plinth in London’s Trafalgar Square on the importance of engineering. It can be viewed at www.oneandother.co.uk
Skill strategy doubt
Manufacturers are concerned about the transfer of responsibility for developing skills strategies to the Regional Development Agencies. The EEF said the system was already too complex.
Train order filled
The 29th and final Hitachi train ordered for Southeastern High Speed Services will be unloaded at Southampton today. The Class 395 travels between Ashford and St Pancras and reaches speeds of 140mph.
© PE Publishing, 19 August 2009
