Learned societies and trade associations have some complementary interests, so it makes sense to increase our mutual awareness and understanding. Several trade associations cover industrial sectors relevant to Tribology. The following examples are known to me in the UK. If you know of any others, please add them by replying to this message.
British Gear Association
"Securing and enhancing the mechanical power transmission industry"
The British Gear Association (BGA) is a trade association that promotes the technical and commercial interests of manufacturers, distributors, academics and others involved in the Power Transmissions industry in the United Kingdom. The Association speaks with authority on behalf of the industry both nationally and internationally and its ability to help companies and individuals involved in the industry is widely recognised by government, the media and industry. The Association is well-represented on British and International Standard committees and provides the Chairman of the British Standards Institution's MCE/5 Committee on Gearing and the Chairman to ISO TC60 sub committee SC1.
http://www.bga.org.uk/
British Fluid Power Association
"Representing the hydraulics and pneumatics industries"
The British fluid Power Association, BFPA, represents Hydraulic and Pneumatic businesses commercially and technically throughout the UK. With some 220 Distributors and Manufacturers in membership the BFPA is a true full service Trade Association. In whatever section of the Fluid Power industry your interest lies be it technical i.e. Electrohydraulics, Pneumatic Controls, Motion Control, Linear Motion, Accumulators, Pumps and Motors, valves, Pneumatic and Hydraulic Cylinders, Seals, Hose and Fittings, Safety and Training, or commercial such as Overseas Exhibitions, Statistics, Political lobbying, European Directives and Guidelines. The BFPA has something for you.
http://www.bfpa.co.uk/
Surface Engineering Association
"Committed to the advancement of the surface engineering industry"
The Surface Engineering Association provides the 'focus' for all aspects of the surface engineering industry. Through its structures and committees the SEA brings together the membership, resources, technical and industrial expertise of the MFA (Metal Finishing Association), the BSTSA (British Surface Treatment Suppliers Association), the PPFA (Paint and Powder Finishing Association), the CHTA (Contract Heat Treatment Association) and the Wolfson Heat Treatment Centre (WHTC).
http://www.sea.org.uk/
United Kingdom Lubricants Association
"Representing the interests of UK lubricant producers and allied sectors"
UKLA was formed in 2005 by a merger between BLF, the long standing UK Lubricants Industry Trade Association and the UK Delegation to UEIL - the European Lubricants Industry Organisation for the sector. UKLA is now the UK Delegation of UEIL. Acknowledged as the Lead Body by UK Government, UKLA has a pro-active policy - a knowledgeable Secretariat and has a wealth of knowledge and experience on Technical & Regulatory matters - amongst its Members and various Working groups.
http://www.ukla.org.uk/
