Engineering

Overview - R&D within the Engineering industry:

The UK engineering sector has seen substantial growth over the past two decades, fuelled by investments in advanced machinery, skills, and technology. This growth spans various sub-fields, making engineering essential across numerous industries, with many activities qualifying for R&D tax credits.

Engineers are dedicated to refining existing equipment and processes to comply with new regulations, ensuring safety and environmental standards. Simultaneously, there is a strong focus on developing new mechanical and electrical systems to tackle current challenges and enhance operational capabilities.

Key Areas of R&D in Engineering:

Material Innovation:

• Engineers are pioneering the development of new stronger, lighter, more durable, and sustainable materials. These advancements can lead to breakthroughs in fields ranging from aerospace to construction.

Precision Engineering:

• Precision engineers are crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, medical, and petrochemical. They design and manufacture components with complex requirements and geometries, addressing technological uncertainties through iterative development. Their work involves managing changes in material stability, distortion, heat treatment effects, and achieving precise finishes, tight tolerances, and optimising manufacturing processes.

  Civil Engineering:

• Civil engineering encompasses various disciplines, including transportation, geotechnical, environmental, and structural engineering. Innovation in this field is vital for the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, railways, bridges, and buildings. Addressing challenges such as urban construction compatibility often requires innovative R&D solutions.

  Construction:

• In the construction sector, R&D drives innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Common areas include the development of sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, advanced digital construction technologies such as BIM and 3D printing, modular and prefabricated techniques, and resilience against climate change. These innovations are essential for meeting global demands for more sustainable and efficient infrastructure.

While the above examples illustrate common R&D activities within engineering, the sector’s diversity necessitates a tailored approach to assess eligibility and advise accordingly. We recommend scheduling a meeting with one of our expert consultants to explore how we can assist with your engineering R&D tax relief claim.

How We Can Help:

At Westlock Partners, our experts help engineering firms identify eligible R&D activities and maximise their R&D tax credits. Click below to schedule an initial exploratory meeting with our Head of Innovative & Emerging Technologies Advisory to discuss how we can support your R&D tax relief claim.