Inside ITP Aero UK: Laser Welding Innovation and Facility Tour

What will the visit cover?

This lecture will present ITP Aero UK's latest advancements in laser welding, with a focus on the application of high-precision laser welding to stainless-steel aero-structure components.  The session will explore process development, qualification challenges and the benefits of laser welding in high-integrity aerospace manufacturing.  Attendees will gain an insight into the technical approach and lessons learned from introducing laser welding into production environments.  The lecture will conclude with a guided tour of ITP Aero UK's welding facilities, offering a first-hand view of the laser welding cell and broader welding and joining capabilities.

Our industry experts will be:

Gervasio Salerno - Special Processes Manager ITP Aero UK

Naveed Iqbal - Special Processes Technologist ITP Aero UK

Mark Baxter - Special Processes Technologist ITP Aero UK

Meet the speakers: 

Dr Gervasio (Gerry) Salerno is the Special Processes and Manufacturing Laboratory Manager at ITP Aero UK, where he provides technical leadership across multiple special processes for advances aero-engine components manufacture.  Holding a PhD in manufacturing engineering with a focus on welding processes, he has driven numerous OEM source qualifications and NADCAP accreditations that underpin ITP Aero's capability in high-integrity manufacturing.  A chartered engineer and welding specialist, Gerry blends scientific depth with practical insight to optimise process control, quality, and innovation.  His expertise spans metallic materials, joining technologies and special process governance in highly regulated aerospace environments.

Dr Naveed Iqbal is a Technology Specialist at ITP Aero UK and a graduate of Delft University of Technology, where he completed a PhD on liquid-to-solid phase transformations in metallic materials using high-energy X-rays at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.  Following a research fellowship at the University of Manchester, he focused on developing novel materials and manufacturing processes for net-zero technologies.  His work has advanced coatings, laser, EBW, and solid-state joining for aerospace, space, and electric-vehicle applications.  With over 30 publications, Dr Iqbal has received international recognition, including the ALCOA Aluminium Award (2013) and the Raiser Innovation Award (2017).

Mark Baxter is a Level 4 qualified welding specialist at UTP Aero UK with over 40 years' experience in aerospace fabrication and welding.  A former Rolls Royce weld coordinator, he has led international supplier development, process improvement and training programmes across the global supply chain.  Mark provides expert technical support in welding and joining, ensuring compliance with customer and regulatory standards while driving best practice and workforce capability.  He also holds qualifications as an NVQ training coordinator and international welding specialist through The Welding Institute, combining deep technical knowledge with a passion for mentoring and professional development.

Benefits from attending the event:

• Information transfer from experts
• Discussion, questions and answers on the specific topics
• A broader understanding of the extent of standards in the industry
• Attendance of this event qualifies for CPD 

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

The Welding Institute awards points towards CPD for delegates attending this webinar. Every hour attendance of an event will earn 2 points towards your continuing professional development