Rolls-Royce Alliance Wins Navy Research Contract

A strategic alliance between Rolls-Royce and UCT Coatings Inc. is bringing new technology to the marine market and is about to start work on a $7m U.S. Navy research contract. The contract, placed with Rolls-Royce, will evaluate UCT’s patented UltraCem™ nickel boron coatings on naval propulsion systems such as propellers and waterjets.

These coatings have the capability to change the hydrodynamic performance, cavitation characteristics and sea-growth fouling of propellers and waterjets. Performance, reliability and time between repair of marine equipment can also be increased by reduced friction and wear. UCT has granted Rolls-Royce a long-term exclusive license to use this technology for a wide range of commercial and naval marine equipment.