A research and development centre to capitalise on pioneering New Zealand titanium technology - including bendable bolts - has been opened in Tauranga.

The Applied Powder Metallurgy Centre will help companies develop and test revolutionary titanium products.

Titanium - the metal with the best strength-to-weight ratio - is used for aerospace, industrial, medical and automotive products.

Its uses include hip joints, metal plates for implants, surgical tools, cogs, nozzles, jet engine parts, sports equipment, filters and advanced coatings.

The bendable bolts are particularly effective when used with self-locking nuts.

The centre has been set up by the Titanium Industry Development Association with funding from Trade and Enterprise.

Read full story.

Credit: Grant Bradley, www.nzherald.co.nz