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PESMedia Production Engineering Solutions ukmfgnews October 2023 pesmedia.com Universal Robots: taking teamwork and productivity to the next level Pages 38-39 Working hand-ingripper with cobots Preview pages 47-49
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www.pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions October 2023 3 Atrip up to Sheffield to see Universal Robots’ new automation hub and chat with UK sales manager Mark Gray provided the foundation for this month’s cover article. There’s nothing like a story about automation to polarise opinion is there? From top to bottom, the UK manufacturing fraternity needs to automate more and until we get to a point where it’s interwoven into all our manufacturing processes, our productivity is going to be lagging behind. Data on this stuff is constantly changing, but figures from a June 2022 report from the International Federation of Robotics reveal that the UK ranks 17th out of 25 countries in the Robotic Industrial Productivity Index (RIPI). It’s a no brainer that manufacturing nations that fully embrace automation are generally much more productive. Generally, there are two types of robots: collaborative (cobots) and industrial. The main differences from a top-level perspective are that cobots can work alongside humans safely, are easy to program, have a compact footprint and are relatively inexpensive. Conversely, industrial robots can lift high payloads and are fast and accurate – but they can be difficult to program and need to be guarded. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses. Universal Robots is 100% a cobot manufacturer. It was interesting speaking to Mark about the use of cobots in manufacturing processes. He set the scene almost immediately by stating that Universal Robots, as a business, wants to create a world where people work with robots, not like robots. Makes sense. The main role of cobots is to tackle many of the repetitive, mundane, tedious tasks that are part of just about any manufacturing process. Cobots are much more suited to this kind of work than people are so why not use them? They’re ideal for a wide range of activities from machine tending, welding and inspection, through to surface finishing, packaging and palletising. The key takeaway here is that they’re not designed to replace people but work alongside them as part of the overall process. Much better from a health and safety perspective as well because repetitive strain injury can be a real problem for people. Cobots can certainly lighten the load, freeing up staff to undertake more fulfilling tasks. It’s impossible to talk about automation without the subject of job losses coming up and that’s totally understandable. I’m not going to sugar coat this: my view is that some manual, unskilled positions could be lost but in the bigger picture, automation can make a business much more efficient and productive. Safeguarding jobs in other words. And we absolutely can’t forget there’s a humungous skills shortage blighting the entire manufacturing world and that’s why automation is essential. Those that don’t adapt, probably won’t survive. As Mark succinctly puts it: “There are around 76,000 engineering vacancies in the UK at the moment so any concerns that robots will take human jobs simply aren’t true. It’s about deploying robots to fill the operational gaps that the skills crisis has created.” Take a look at the full article on pages 38-39. Dave Tudor Editorial Director For manufacturers, automation comes in many guises, but in terms of robots, there are two main flavours: industrial and collaborative (cobots). With the latter, suppliers don’t come much bigger than Danish organisation Universal Robots with more than 75,000 installations worldwide. Dave Tudor headed north to Sheffield and met with UK sales manager Mark Gray at the company’s brand spanking new Robotics Hub which officially opened its doors in June this year. See pages 38-39 Cover story COMMENT/CONTENTS Production Engineering Solutions is published 12 times per year and is distributed free of charge to applicants in the UK meeting the publisher’s criteria. Subscriptions are also available at £80 per annum to UK readers or £148 overseas. Whilst every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publishers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions, no matter how they may arise. Authors’ opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the consent of the publisher. © MIT Publishing Limited 2023 You can now view your copy of Production Engineering Solutions online. To register, please go to www.pesmedia.com Contents PES has strict circulation terms of control. These are independently verified and audited by the ‘Audit Bureau of Circulations’. Circulation Statement Published by: MIT Publishing Limited, Featherstone House, 375 High Street, Rochester, Kent ME1 1DA Tel: 01634 830566 Volume 27 Issue 329 ISSN 1460-3926 EVENTS January 2024 TCT Japan Tokyo Big Sight, Japan 31 Jan - 2 Feb 2024 November 2023 Advanced Engineering 2023 NEC, Birmingham, UK 1-2 November 2023 5 Bowers Group achieves ISO 14001 approval Phil Hopkins Joins Ward CNC as head of strategic sales NEWS MACHINING 18 Giving a push to aero productivity Stepping up with Dugard MACHINING CENTRES 22 A decade of growth and success LARGE CAPACITY MACHINING 24 Mill-turns make the difference at decanter specialist TOOLING & WORKHOLDING 27 Zero-point clamping brings a smile to dental production Presetting tech revolutionises production at valve specialist SAWING TECHNOLOGY 36 A holistic solution for storage and sawing AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS 38 Working hand-in-gripper with cobots Reducing the burden of post-processing for metal AM ADVANCED ENGINEERING 2023 47 New developments at Advanced Engineering UK Lasers for e-mobility and aerospace SOFTWARE IN MANUFACTURING 50 RO-RA relies on software solutions from CGTech UK sawing specialist sees productivity gains using simple planning software Circulation Perception SAS Phone: 01825 701520 pes@mitpublishing.com Publisher David Rose Editorial Director Dave Tudor T: 01634 825702 newsdesk@pesmag.co.uk Deputy Editor Ed Hill T: 01634 825705 ehill@mitpublishing.co.uk Production Coordinator Ewa Hodden T: 01634 825703 ehodden@mitpublishing. co.uk Digital Content Coordinator Michael Tyrrell mtyrrell@mitpublishing. co.uk Financial Controller Valerie Prentice accounts@mitpublishing.co.uk Sales Manager Tammy Jukes T: 01634 825706 tjukes@pesmag.co.uk Sales Director Andy Morley T: 01634 825701 amorley@pesmag.co.uk Contacts
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pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions October 2023 5 NEWS COMPANY FINDER Advanced Engineering 2023 47 ASG Group 12 BMW Group 12 Bowers Group 5 Bruderer UK 15 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 30 CGTech 50 CNC 2010 54 Compass Business Finance 10 Delmia 46 Dormer Pramet 30 Dugard 20 EuroBLECH 17 Farnborough International Airshow 6 Floyd Automatic Tooling 29 Guhring UK 6 Horn Cutting Tools 29 Iscar 32 Kasto 36 KMT 7 Kyal Machine Tools 24 Mach Machine Tools 22 Make UK 16 Master Abrasives 8 Nikken 28 NMIS 8 Oemeta UK 10 Omnitool 8 Prosaw 14, 52 PSL Datatrack 54 Rivelin Robotics 41 Roemheld 27 Sandvik Coromant 34 Shipham Valves 28 Star GB 11 Starrag 18 SteelBuy 11 T Cards Online 52 Thame Workholding 44 True Position Robotics (TPR) 42 Trumpf 48 TW Ward CNC Machinery 5 Universal Robots 38 WFL Millturn Technologies 24 XYZ Machine Tools 49 EDITORIAL ADVERTISING Allied Machine & Engineering 28 Andreas Maier 16 Arno 33 AXYZ 14 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 56 CGTech 54 CNC Robotics 46 Cranden Diamond 35 Exel 53 Fastems 45 Filtration Service Engineering 13 Guhring 48 Haas 15 Hainbuch 27 Heller Machine Tools 23 Hoffmann Group 49 Horn Cutting Tools 31 Iscar 4 J&S Engineering 19 Kasto 37 Kyocera/SGS 34 Lang-Technik 10 Mapal 17 MecWash 18 MIE Solutions 50 Mikron Tool 32 Mills CNC 9 Muffett Engineering Solutions 20 NCMT 21 Prosaw 12 PSL Datatrack 52 REM Systems 41 Renishaw 40 Southern Manufacturing 6 Starrag 26 Sykes Machines 29 TBT 24 T Cards Online 51 Telmar CNC 10 Thame Workholding 42 Thermwood 11 thyssenkrupp 8 Universal Robots 43 Wallwork 47 Ward Hi-Tech 7 WFL Millturn Technologies 25 XYZ Machine Tools 2 Yamawa 30 NEWS In a significant step towards a more sustainable future, Bowers Group has announced that it has attained the prestigious ISO 14001 environmental standard across the entire business. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment in its Net Zero journey, environmental sustainability, and responsible business practices. ISO 14001 stands as an internationally recognised benchmark that defines the criteria for an effective environmental management system. It provides a structured framework for organisations to improve environmental performance, reduce their ecological footprint, and bolster resource efficiency. Managing director at Bowers Group, Martin Hawkins, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been awarded the ISO 14001 certification; it’s a testament to the hard work and shared vision of our entire team and a significant step towards our ultimate goal of being Net Zero by 2050. This accomplishment echoes our unwavering dedication to safeguarding the environment and supporting a sustainable world for present and future generations. “By achieving this certification, we signal our commitment to upholding the highest standards of environmental responsibility in every area of our operations. This means not just reducing waste and minimising environmental footprint but also inspiring others to join this transformative path.” With its sights set on a sustainable future, Bowers Group remains committed in its pursuit of responsible practices. The achievement of ISO 14001 certification is a step forward in the company’s Net Zero journey. Q Bowers Group www.bowersgroup.co.uk Bowers Group achieves ISO 14001 approval Following recent enhancements to the company’s sales and aftersales and service teams, TW Ward CNC Machinery (Ward CNC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Phil Hopkins to the position of head of strategic sales. Mr Hopkins’ appointment will further strengthen the company’s senior management and sales team, bringing a wealth of technical experience within the machine tool industry in both engineering and technical sales. He started his career as a CNC machinist in the aerospace industry and developed into a production project engineer before successfully moving into sales, constantly exceeding targets and building customer relationships. Mr Hopkins’ main focus will be selling and promoting the company’s Soraluce brand and portfolio of machine tools and value-added services into existing vertical markets, strategic customers and identifying potential new key markets and customers. Speaking of his appointment, he commented: “I’m very happy to have taken the position of head of strategic sales here at Ward CNC. It’s a role I’m very excited to get started in and I’m looking forward to working with and developing the Soraluce brand in the UK.” Ward CNC’s executive director Stephen Bodsworth added: “Phil is the latest of many high-calibre additions we have made to our senior management and sales teams. His track record of machine tool sales combined with many years of building customer relationships will make him a fantastic addition to the company.” Commenting on the further collaboration between the two partners, Soraluce’s sales director David González stated: “We have been in many discussions with the Ward CNC team about this exciting new position and were delighted when they advised that Phil will be joining as we think he is the perfect match to promote our portfolio of premium solutions. “Soraluce and Ward CNC have been proud partners for over 60 years, and we are looking forward to meeting Phil and working closely together to enhance the brand across the UK and Ireland market.” Q TW Ward CNC Machinery www.wardcnc.com Ward CNC’s executive director Stephen Bodsworth (left) with new recruit Phil Hopkins Phil Hopkins Joins Ward CNC as head of strategic sales Scan here for more TW Ward CNC articles Scan here for more Bowers Group articles Sourcing a Subcontractor just got easier
6 October 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Over 600 national and international suppliers come together to exhibit at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre this February for Southern Manufacturing and Electronics (inc AutoAero) 2024. Meet the power behind UK manufacturing industry and see live demonstrations and new product launches of machine tools & tooling, electronics, factory & process automation, packaging & handling, labelling & marking, 3D print technology, test & measurement, materials, composites & adhesives, rapid prototyping, ICT, drives & controls, plastics & polymers and laboratory equipment. Free industry seminar programme online @ www.industrysouth.co.uk The exhibition is free to attend, free to park and easy to get to. Doors open at 9.30am on Tuesday 6th February. 6th 8th February 9.30am - 4.30pm FARNBOROUGH | Hants | GU14 6TQ (3.30pm close Thurs) Where Industry and Innovation converge SEMINARS PARKING Incorporating The Subcontract Engineering Exhibition PRE-REGISTER TODAY www.industrysouth.co.uk for your Fast Track Entry Badge, Preview Magazine and Event Catalogue SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS is an ETES event organised by European Trade & Exhibition Services Ltd 01784 880890 philv@etes.co.uk In line with the positive outlook for the aerospace industry, which is expecting commercial revenues to grow 14% yearon-year, the next Farnborough International Airshow in 2024 is reporting record-breaking demand for exhibition space, sponsorship packages and marketing activations. Despite the ongoing supply chain challenges, the aerospace and space industries are set to soar during the next year. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has estimated that the global airline industry is expected to return to profitability in 2023, reaching $5bn in profit, and Accenture has reported that MRO recovery is expected to stay steady through 2023, with most executives anticipating MRO budgets will stay the same or increase in the next 24 months. The global space market has grown to approximately $447bn, up from $280bn in 2010, and is estimated to reach $1tn by 2030, according to a report by McKinsey and World Economic Forum. The industry’s reporting of high, pre-pandemic level results is reflected in the increased demand for exhibition opportunities and floor space at Farnborough International Airshow 2024. Over 90% of commercial exhibition spaces and chalets are reserved and sold across the show site, with only a handful of self-build stands remaining across the show’s four exhibition halls. To meet the exceptional demand, Farnborough International, organiser of the airshow, is constructing 17 new chalets with more than 50% of these already sold. Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International, said: “Farnborough International Airshow 2022 signified the revival of the aerospace, defence and space industries and proved the value and need for global airshows. Since then, we have seen the aerospace industry accelerate partnerships and sustainable strategies to take their operations to new heights. “At Farnborough International, we are ready to support the industry within this period of growth and act as a catalyst for positive, future-focused change that will steer the trajectory of aerospace, space and defence for the next decade. We are working tirelessly with the global aerospace industry to provide opportunities at the 2024 airshow and will be implementing a waitlist for those who are still keen to engage with the event.” Taking place from 22-26 July 2024, the airshow will see global aerospace and aviation leaders return to Hampshire to discover the latest pioneering technology and engineering, announce historic partnerships, build connections and work towards the cumulative sustainable aerospace vision as an industry. Farnborough International Airshow www.farnboroughairshow.com Double celebrations are due for Midlands-based Guhring during 2023 as the tool company sees in its 125th anniversary, while also reaching the half century milestone of its inaugural subsidiary in Birmingham. To mark the occasion, Guhring is paying tribute to Prime Accountants Group, which has been a long-term supporter and advisor to the German-based tooling firm since its arrival to UK shores in 1973. During that time, Guhring has consolidated its British footprint to a new, 60,000ft2 purpose-built facility in Aston, Birmingham, where it has resided since 2017. Since Guhring became operational outside of Germany in 1973, it has gone from strength-to-strength, with no fewer than 47 subsidiaries now open across the world. Its Birmingham team use the accountancy services of Prime, also based in the Midlands, for several key functions, including its year-end audit and reporting its financial results back to the company’s Germany-based HQ. Chris Weston, managing director of Guhring’s subsidiary in Birmingham, said: “This year provides two significant milestones to celebrate at Guhring and we’re intending to do exactly that. Both the company’s 125th anniversary and our Birmingham subsidiary reaching its half century is reason to be thankful for all those who have helped Guhring reach this point. “I joined the firm 24 years ago and have worked my way through the ranks to become managing director six years ago. In that time, I’ve worked very closely with Morgan, Leigh and the team at Prime Accountants and they’ve never blinked twice when called upon to support us for any financial services we require. “The management of quarterly and yearly reporting packs created by Prime which are sent to company headquarters in Germany is a huge weight lifted from our minds, knowing we can trust such a long-established supplier to generate exactly what is required. “We have a fantastic working relationship with Prime and we hope the next 50 years will continue in much the same vein as the last.” Further to its accountancy reporting and audit services, Guhring has utilised the benefits of Prime’s research and development team in order to apply for and earn a number of significant business grants before the Coronavirus pandemic began in 2020. During the pandemic, Guhring managed to continue trading operations thanks to its 60,000ft2 factory in Birmingham having enough space for social distancing between its employees. Guhring UK www.guhring.co.uk Chris Weston Double celebration time for Guhring Record demand for Farnborough Airshow 2024 Scan here for more Guhring articles
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions October 2023 7 NEWS When you’re considering new equipment make sure you take a look at our extensive, high quality, great value machine tool range. With over 30years experience in supply and service support, Ward Hi-Tech have the machine for you. YES...WE HAVE IT ! Ward Hi-Tech Limited 1 Atlas Way Sheffield S4 7QQ South Yorkshire Tel: 0114 2560333 Fax: 0114 2561629 Email: sales@wardhitech.co.uk www.wardhitech.co.uk when you want it, we have it Hwacheon CNC Lathes and Multi Axis Turning Centres Vertical Lathes, Vertical Machining Centres and Drill Tap Machines Dah Lih Vertical, Horizontal, 5Axis and Double Column Machining Centres Kiheung Bed Type and Travelling Column CNC Universal Milling Machines H.N.K. Heavy Duty CNC Vertical Lathes, Horizontal Boring Machines and Double Column Machining Centres Vision Wide High Speed and Heavy Duty Double Column Machining Centres 5Axis Gantry and Double Column Machining Centres S.F.M. Heavy Duty Flat Bed and Oil Country CNC Lathes *O 4UPDL /08 KM Tools (KMT) continues to champion the delivery of bespoke machinery and services after its recent investment in a laser cutting machine and press brake. The company’s commitment to offering an integrated approach to each project means that equipment is delivered cost-effectively and in a timely manner. Group engineering director, Adrian Degg explained: “Design is an essential part of every project. Our expert engineering teams closely collaborate with customers to scope out application requirements, creating blueprints and CAD models for sign-off in specified formats. Virtually any machine design is possible when working together with a turnkey service provider like KMT.” With design complete, KMT’s in-house fabrications facility quickly produces custom equipment frames and tooling. Its LVD PPEB320/30 press brake and LVD Phoenix FL-3015 6 kW fibre laser cutting machine can manufacture to the highest quality standards. “Machines are more than just metal. A complete electromechanical approach means almost any system can be integrated into a machine design,” Mr Degg said. “This includes powertrains, hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, controls, and instrumentation.” Beyond creating new machines, robust refurbishment services breathes new life into legacy equipment, extending service life and greatly improving efficiency and reliability – at a significantly decreased cost compared to a new machine purchase. After building and testing, KMT manages delivery and installation at the customer’s production facility. With reduced lead-times and a complete in-house approach, it ensures swift and straightforward machine installation, minimising operational downtime. KMT supports the future reliability of equipment with round-the-clock maintenance support services. “Maintenance personnel can be made available to proactively service machines, reducing downtime, and ultimately ensure availability. This can even include stationing dedicated teams at production facilities,” Mr Degg added. The company’s comprehensive suite of design, fabrication, build, installation and maintenance services – supported by advanced laser cutting and press brake capabilities – ensure that no engineering project is too big or too complex. Its blend of inhouse manufacturing, state-ofthe-art machinery, and technical expertise makes KMT a go-to partner for bespoke engineering solutions. KMT www.kmt.tools KMT invests in new fabrication technology
8 October 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Irvine-based Omnitool, a familyrun precision engineering business, is boosting production capacity and plans to expand into new markets, create new jobs and cut emissions following the introduction of new digital tools and expertise. With £188,000 funding support from Innovate UK, Omnitool is working with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), operated by the University of Strathclyde and part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult (HVMC), to develop the skills required to implement its digital upgrade. The business hopes that the move will see machine idle time cut in half and production capacity increased by 10%. Omnitool recently invested over £2.5m in multi-axis machine tools to produce technically challenging, highvalue products for a range of applications, such as aerospace and energy industries. A Knowledge Transfer Partnership, a collaborative project involving the business, NMIS experts and a qualified graduate, will see Omnitool implement offline programming techniques and train employees on coding skills, with a new digital manufacturing lead now being recruited by the company to help scale up the company’s automation initiatives. Omnitool’s engineers will also use digital twins, and CAD/CAM to program machines offline – using simulations to prepare tool patterns outside of the machine to minimise disruption and boost efficiency. Mark McKell, operations director at Omnitool, said: “We have noticed a growing demand for our high-quality, complex machined components and want to ensure production is as efficient as possible. The previous online programming approach meant there was significant idle time while the machines were being set up, but this project allowed us to adopt a high-tech digital approach. “The increased capacity will enable us to grow the business and target new sectors such as aerospace. We’ll be using the new strategy to transform our entire manufacturing processes in the years ahead.” Over the next three years, Omnitool hopes to gain the skills required across the company to introduce the new digital approach across 90% of its production centres and anticipates 10 new roles will be created as a result. As well as boosting capacity, the switch to offline programming will also have sustainable benefits for the company, helping to reduce waste and cut emissions. The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) is a group of industry-led manufacturing R&D, innovation and skills facilities supported by a network of partners across Scotland, all working together to transform the future of manufacturing. NMIS www.nmis.scot Omnitool www.omnitool.co.uk Digital switch boosts Scottish precision engineering firm Master Abrasives, a global provider of manufacturing consumables and capital equipment for industry, is sponsoring Daventry Town Football Club (DTFC) this season to support the local community. Paul Batson, managing director of Master Abrasives, commented: “We’ve been looking for new ways to give back to the local community and are delighted to have found a new partner in our local team at DTFC. The club is community run and does so much for families, supporting young people in sport and arranging a local food bank – they really are more than a football club and we’re proud to be one of their sponsors.” DTFC’s team operates a Community Food Bank and identifies individuals in need in collaboration with local community support groups. It also has a thriving junior section with over 40 teams allowing children, both male and female, to play in safety from 4-18 years old. Mr Batson continued: “We’re thrilled about the opportunity to work with the club and wish them every success this season. Together, we can foster a strong spirit of community while building our brand and social media presence. It’s exciting to demonstrate our commitment to community in such an extensive way and imagine the new opportunities this exposure will bring.” Mike Doney, juniors coach and commercial contact for DTFC, added: “We are so grateful for the wonderful support from the team at Master Abrasives. I am really pleased that so many companies are kindly supporting us and aligning not just to football, but the community – it’s so rewarding to see. Master Abrasives are a massive contributor to this success.” The partnership involves featuring two pitch-side boards at the grounds in Daventry, where Master Abrasives encourages spectators to ‘go for the final finish’ or ‘achieve your grinding goal’ with its team. On top of this, Master has supported the recent family fun day organised by DTFC, providing prizes for the tombola. The team will continue to look out for more ways to work together to achieve targets, supporting the work that DTFC does. Master Abrasives www.master-abrasives.co.uk Master Abrasives kicks off football club sponsorship Scan here for more Master Abrasives articles
Manufacturers of large and small high-precision components, looking to improve their productivity and operational efficiencies through one-hit machining, are increasingly investing in our SMX range of multi-tasking mill-turn machines. Recently expanded through the introduction of the new SMX 2100 and SMX 5100 series’, the range now features machines with chuck sizes from 8”up to 21”, and turning diameters and lengths up to 830mm and 4000mm, respectively. Equipped with powerful, high-torque and built-in main (left) spindles, and either similarly specced sub-spindles or programmable servo-driven tailstocks, and featuring versatile B-axis milling heads (+/- 120° stroke), Y-axis capabilities, servo-driven ATCs and roller LM guideways - SMX mill-turn machines are fast, accurate and flexible. Irrespective of whether you machine large components, small components or a mixture of both - as long as you are looking to machine them to completion in a single set up we have a SMX machine that will more than meet your needs. For more information call us on 01926 736736 or visit www.millscnc.co.uk Mills CNC: Like No-one Else! Mills CNC Technology Campus: 01926 736736 www.millscnc.co.uk The SMX series of high-productivity mill-turn machines from Mills CNC. One size doesn’t fit all. One range does.
10 October 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS i ĞâââĜ®yµljÒ µ¡¬ĜºĜÖ¬ Y®ĞćĈĉĐčĎĐčČĎč tĞ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝnjĞ ŝŶ ŚŝŐŚͲƉƌĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ E ŵĂĐŚŝŶŝŶŐ ƐŽůƵƟŽŶŶ͕Ɛ ĐĂƚĞƌŝŶŐ ƚŽ ŝŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĞƐ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ĂƵƚŽŵŽƟǀĞ͕ ĚĞĨĞŶĐĞĞ͕͕ ĞůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂůů͕ ƌĞŶĞǁĂďůĞ ĞŶĞƌŐLJ͕LJ ͕ ƉŚĂƌŵĂĐĞƵƟĐĂůů͕͕ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŶLJ ŵŽƌĞĞ͘ tĞŽīĞƌ͗ O ƵƫŶŐͲ ĚŐĞ WƌĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ͗͗͗ KƵƌ ƐƚĂƚĞͲŽĨͲƚŚĞͲĂƌƚ E ƚĞĐŚŶŽůŽŐLJ ĞŶƐƵƌĞƐ ƵŶƉĂƌĂůůĞůĞĚ ƉƌĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ ĂŶĚ ĂĐĐƵƌĂĐLJ͘ O^ŬŝůůĞĚ ƌĂŌƐŵĂŶƐŚŝƉƉ͗͗ ͗KƵƌ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚ ƚĞĂŵ ŽĨ ĞŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ ĂŶĚ ŵĂĐŚŝŶŝƐƚƐ ĐƌĂŌ ĞǀĞƌLJ ĐŽŵƉŽŶĞŶƚ ǁŝƚŚ ŵĞƟĐƵůŽƵƐ ĂƩĞŶƟŽŶ ƚŽ ĚĞƚĂŝůů͘ OdŝŵĞůLJ ĞůŝǀĞƌLJ͗͗LJ tĞ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶĐĞ ŽĨ ĚĞĂĚůŝŶĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŶƐŝƐƚĞŶƚůLJ ĚĞůŝǀĞƌ ŽŶ ƟŵĞ͘ O ƵƐƚŽŵ ^ŽůƵƟŽŶƐ͗ dĂŝůŽƌĞĚ ŵĂĐŚŝŶŝŶŐ ƐŽůƵƟŽŶƐ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ LJŽƵƌ ƉƌŽũĞĐƚ ŶĞĞĚƐ͘ ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ƵƐ ƚŽĚĂLJ ĂŶĚ ĚŝƐĐŽǀĞƌ ŚŽǁ dĞůŵĂƌ E >ŝŵŝƚĞĚ ĐĂŶ ĞůĞǀĂƚĞ LJŽƵƌ ƉƌĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ ĞŶŐŝŶĞĞƌŝŶŐ ƉƌŽũĞĐƚƐƐ͘ sŝƐŝƚ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ƚĞůŵĂƌĐŶĐ͘ ĐŽ͘ ƵŬor call 02380 266266 Telmar CNC Limited, Unit 3 Warrior Park, Eagle Close, Chandlers Ford Ind.Est, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO53 4NF T: 02380 266266 E: admin@telmarcnc.co.uk telmarcnc.co.uk TelmarCNC_PES_A4qtr.indd 1 18/09/2023 08:00 2023 marks the 30th (Pearl) anniversary of Oemeta products in the UK. The origins of the UK arm of the German innovator began with a sole sales technician in the summer of 1993. The company quickly gained momentum on UK turf, securing a number of notable customers along the way. Fast forward to 1997. Following its success on the continent, Oemeta UK’s largest automotive customer introduced first generation Hycut cutting fluids into its production processes. There have been many iterations of Hycut since then, but the customer in question continues to use the products to this day. Opening further benefits to customers in the form of added value and professional support, the year 2000 saw the employment of the first service technician. Today, Oemeta has a number of road-based technicians across the UK who provide this service and share their expert knowledge with customers. In 2006 Oemeta UK expanded its portfolio to include ancillary equipment as well as specialist additive test strips to help determine the condition of coolants. Since this initial offering, the equipment range has expanded significantly to include mixing devices and accessories, hoses and distribution tools, fluid monitoring, purifying, and recycling units, as well as specialist reporting and fluid management hardware and software. 2008 saw the first employee permanently placed at a customer’s site. Adding more value, a few years later, in 2011, Oemeta announced the first stage of a UK-based analytical facility designed to test and analyse the condition of customers’ cutting fluids. ISO 9001 accreditation followed in 2019. “Like many businesses, Oemeta UK was able to successfully operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic – but it did provide time for reflection in terms of how to move the business forward,” recalled Oemeta UK’s managing director, David Woodford. “A new sales team structure refreshed the company’s outlook and provided the additional drive to promote Oemeta’s proactive approach to coolant sales out into the marketplace. An appreciation of meeting people and businesses face-toface also fuelled appearances at leading trade shows such as MACH 2022 and Southern Manufacturing. Further appearances at Manufacturing Solutions in Ireland and MACH 2024 are also in the diary. “All-in-all it has been a very successful 30 years for the business, and we can only hope the next 30 and beyond are as prosperous,” Mr Woodford concluded. “To celebrate, we’ve organised an event for our valued employees and their families.” Oemeta UK www.oemeta.com/uk Three decades of cutting fluid excellence for Oemeta UK In another senior appointment announcement, Compass Business Finance has unveiled Ken Archbold as head of credit. Mr Archbold has a wealth of experience in credit and underwriting, as well as working with broker channels. Over the next three to five years, Compass is looking to double the amount of money it is putting into the market via its own book and intermediaries. To achieve this, the company is making sure it has the right people in place, along with the systems and processes to support its relational approach to finance, providing customers with the best possible solutions for their businesses. “Compass is an incredibly entrepreneurial company,” Mr Archbold – who joins Compass from Metro Bank (UK) where he had been business development director for the past seven years – commented. “I’m relishing the chance to bring that entrepreneurial role and spirit further into finance and to mirror how the directors Mark Nelson, Jamie Nelson and David Bunker, and the team do things differently in the way they transact their business. “Compass is particularly well known in print, packaging and engineering and has a really close relationship with their customers, partners and suppliers. They know these industries inside out, which will be a big learning curve for me. I am looking forward to bringing my experience into Compass to help further expand its capabilities”. Mark Nelson, Compass director, added: “With core strengths in credit and underwriting, Ken also has a wealth of experience in working with broker channels, and will be supporting growth in that area of our business. He is a fantastic addition as we continue to grow in our markets. He enjoys meeting customers, understanding their businesses and making deals happen. This fits perfectly with our relational approach to finance.” Compass Business Finance www.compassbusinessfinance.co.uk Compass appoints Ken Archbold as head of credit Scan here for more Compass articles
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions October 2023 11 NEWS SteelBuy, an easy-to-use online marketplace where businesses can buy and sell metals quickly and securely, has recorded over 300 transactions and £1m+ sales revenue since it was launched at the start of the year. Users from across the UK are leveraging the technology to achieve faster and more efficient deals for their mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, with all the logistics and invoicing managed through the encrypted platform. Sellers can post their material with product specifications, test certificates and price per tonne and these can be found by potential buyers within seconds. With listings taking just one minute to complete, it is estimated that 37 hours can be saved each week in the average purchasing and sales function. Importantly, all transactions are anonymised so buyers and sellers do not know who the other party is, essential when sensitive data such as prices and stockholding must remain confidential. Terry Sargeant, CEO of SteelBuy, commented: “SteelBuy enables users to effortlessly digitalise their purchasing and sustainably modernise their business and this is just the start – there’s so much unexplored potential in materials trading and distribution, through the power of digitalisation. “The metals sector is traditional by its very nature, yet just eight months after our launch we have proven time and time again that we can reduce costs, boosts sales and speed up what can be an extremely time-consuming process.” SteelBuy was the brainchild of Cameron Sargeant, who came up with the idea of selling material online while working in sales for thyssenkrupp. 22 people were recruited for the new venture – a mix of software, marketing, sales and engineering experts – who all share a passion for harnessing the power of digitalisation in the metals industry. Mr Sargeant, who has been involved in the sector for more than 40 years, added: “We’ve got producing mills, steel service centres, stockholders and even traders using our platform, with the average delivery time of metal, from listing to arriving at the buyer, at just three days. “For sellers, we deliver greater market visibility and reach for both surplus metals and commodity products. By using our online platform, they have an opportunity to sell to anyone, from anywhere and not have to worry about relationships, payment terms or credit risks.” SteelBuy www.steel-buy.com The Market Leader in Large Format Additive Manufacturing Thermwood LSAM - Th e Broadest Line of LFAM Systems available. Systems for a wide variety of applications, materials and budgets. Used to Produce: Industrial Fixtures Molds (including high temp) Tooling Foundry Patterns Prototypes End Products LSAM1540 Print Only or Print/ Trim Combinations Available LSAM AP510 www.thermwood.com 800-533-6901 Scan QR Code to view a case study between Thermwood and General Atomics. Horizontal Layer Printing Vertical Layer Printing Angle Layer Printing 3 Printing Orientations: Star Micronics GB has announced its annual open house, which will take place at its Technology Centre in Derby from 7-9 November. The educational event will mark the UK premiere of new machinery. Attendees will experience the latest technology from Star, with live machining demonstrations across its range and the UK premiere of new sliding head lathes. The latest developments including Step Cycle Pro chipbreaking technology and NC Assist programming software will also be on show. There will also be a wide range of developments on display from trusted partners, giving visitors the product, process and industry knowledge needed to boost productivity. Star’s open house is an ideal opportunity to learn about the latest breakthroughs in sliding head technology, discover new methods of maximising efficiency, becoming more competitive and increasing profitability. It also provides a networking platform where visitors can openly discuss ideas and insight with other businesses at various stages of their evolution. “We are always interested in what’s on show at Star and the open house gives us the opportunity to discuss machines and ancillary equipment which may be useful for future projects,” commented Phil Smith, director at Star customer Wealdpark. “Star’s open house is a well-prepared week in an excellent facility, full of the latest technology and useful exhibitors. We would definitely recommend visiting – you can find out a lot about what is going on in the industry from events like this.” The open house spans three days to give flexibility to visitors with busy schedules. Each day the company will welcome visitors between 9am and 5pm. Hotdogs will be served for lunch and complimentary refreshments will be available throughout. Free parking is available on-site and visitors are welcome to stay for as long as they wish. Star GB www.stargb.com/open Star open house announced for November Online metals marketplace hits sales milestone Scan here for more Star GB articles
12 October 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS ASG Group, a leading precision aerospace subcontract specialist and a strategic supplier to Rolls-Royce and Airbus, has made a significant investment in machinery and metrology equipment. This investment, centred at the ASG Arrowsmith Centre of Excellence in Coventry, is set to transform the company’s machining capabilities and secure major machining contracts with a renowned global aero-engine manufacturer. Partnering with Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of DN Solutions’ machine tools in the UK and Ireland, ASG Arrowsmith has embraced automation technology to enhance its machining prowess. The newly installed automated manufacturing cell comprises the Lynx 2100SY, a versatile and precisiondriven lathe, which augments ASG Arrowsmith’s existing automated manufacturing setup that includes a DVF 5000 simultaneous 5-axis machining centre, integrated with an automatic workpiece pallet changer. These FANUC-controlled lathes, with multi-tasking capabilities, empower ASG Arrowsmith to deliver rapid, high-precision machining of intricate and complex turned and milled aerospace parts. The combination of powerful spindles, advanced turrets, and high processing speeds positions ASG Arrowsmith as a formidable contender in the aerospace sector. Jason Aldridge, managing director of ASG Arrowsmith, commented: “Lynx lathes are really well respected and are both flexible and reliable. With their powerful, high-torque spindles, 12-station turrets, and impressive rapid rates, they deliver the high part accuracies and fast processing speeds required in the aerospace sector.” The newly established automated cell was purchased to support growth in existing aero engine production parts, plus the introduction and ramp up of new components. ASG Arrowsmith has won work on civil military and business aviation components, ranging from medium complexity engine components to higher volume parts. Working with aero enginespecified material grades, Arrowsmith’s 56 years of specialist knowledge on hard exotic metal manufacturing is instrumental. In addition to adding to its machining capability, the firm also invested in a new Keyence IM Series metrology arm. This advanced Instant Measurement System, an automated optical comparator, enables up to 99 dimensional measurements in under three seconds, all at the press of a button. The ability of the IM Series is enhanced by its seamless integration into ASG Arrowsmith’s workflow. The system not only expedites measurement processes but also automatically captures measurement data and generates comprehensive inspection reports, streamlining quality assurance procedures. Q ASG Group www.asg-group.co BMW has announced a new investment of more than £600m in the Mini factories at Oxford and Swindon. “With this new investment we will develop the Oxford plant for production of the new generation of electric Minis and set the path for purely electric car manufacturing in the future,” said Milan Nedeljković, member of the board of management at BMW responsible for production. The Oxford plant is gearing-up to build two new all-electric Mini models from 2026, the 3-door Mini Cooper and the compact crossover Mini Aceman. By 2030 production will be exclusively electric and the BMW Group will have spent over £3bn on its Swindon, Hams Hall and Oxford plants since 2000. This development has been supported by the UK Government and will help to secure jobs at the Oxford manufacturing plant and at the body-pressing facility in Swindon. The Oxford plant has been successfully producing the current Mini Electric since 2019, where it is fully integrated into the production line with the conventional models. The plant currently produces the three-door, the five-door as well as the Clubman and the Electric. From 2024 the plant will start producing the next generation three-door and five-door with combustion engines, as well as the new Mini Convertible, before they are joined by the new all-electric vehicles in 2026 – the Cooper three-door and the Aceman. The factory will reach a production capacity of around 200,000 cars per year in the medium term, with ICE and battery electric vehicles initially being built on the same production line. From 2030, the Oxford Plant will produce allelectric Mini models exclusively. This investment will impact all main production areas in Oxford. The existing production lines will be developed further, with the key changes being an extension of the current body shop and a new area for battery installation. A holistic approach aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and minimising resource consumption underpins Plant Oxford’s sustainability credentials. For example, the body shop has one of the largest, roof-mounted solar farms in the UK. It generates enough electricity to power the equivalent of 850 households, over three megawatts, and reduces the plant’s footprint by approximately 1,500 tonnes of CO2 per year. BMW Group www.bmwgroup.com Milan Nedeljković, member of the board of management at BMW, responsible for production, with the Mini Cooper Electric at the Mini Plant in Oxford £600m investment for electric Mini production in UK Jason Aldridge, MD of ASG Arrowsmith with the new Keyence metrology system Coventry aerospace manufacturer makes big machinery investment is celebrating Join us at our Prosaw Open House 2023. Taking place17-19 October at our HQ in Kettering– celebrate our past 60 years and discover our latest range of cutting-edge, technologically advanced sawing and metal forming machine solutions. HERITAGE • NEW MACHINES • NETWORKING • FOOD Scan the qr code to register to join us – we look forward to seeing you soon
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14 October 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Six decades of sawing success 2023 marks 60 years in business for sawing and metalforming specialist Prosaw. To commemorate this impressive milestone, the company will be hosting a three-day open house from 17-19 October at its UK facility in Kettering. The event will give visitors the opportunity to not only meet the people behind Prosaw and its long history, but also check out the UK debuts of several new sawing machines and other equipment from its wide range of suppliers. As well as being a leading supplier of metal sawing machinery and metalforming equipment, Prosaw has established a reputation for providing material handling solutions, engineered and built in its Kettering workshop. On display during the event will be a fully automatic twin column bandsaw complete with a Prosaw-built material handling system. The company will demonstrate how the addition of simple conveyors, powered conveyors, and other automated handling equipment can reduce overheads and increase productivity. A highly experienced in-house design team – which will be on hand throughout the duration of the open house – means Prosaw can manufacture bespoke systems to individual customer requirements. Many of the machines supplied by Prosaw today are from long established relationships with both manufacturers and customers in the UK and around the world. The range includes manufacturers from more than 10 countries across Europe, Asia and the Americas. To reserve your space and register for the open house event, please use the link below. Q Prosaw www.prosaw.co.uk/openhouse
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions October 2023 15 NEWS NEWS NEW www.haas.co.uk MADE IN USA A UK manufacturing boom has helped one of the world’s leading press manufacturers secure its biggest pipeline of new machine orders for years. Bruderer UK, which employs 12 people at its factory in Luton, is in the process of installing its seventh new high-speed press in the last 12 months – a 50% increase on the same stage last year. Managing director Adrian Haller believes interest in its technology and technical know-how is soaring thanks to a concerted reshoring drive that is seeing supply chains shorten after the pandemic and domestic manufacturing becoming increasingly competitive with low-cost countries. This has seen customers from the automotive, electrification, aerospace, medical, food and construction sectors engage on a host of turnkey projects that will involve complete production solution lines being installed. Bruderer is in the middle of its busiest period for over a decade and is installing full turnkey high-speed press lines (from 25 to 50 tonnes) inclusive of tooling, servo feeders, decoilers, multiway rewinders, vision systems and press and tool monitoring systems. “There’s a real resurgence taking place and we need to talk about it more. Orders are up, investment is up, and industry is desperately crying out for more workers,” explained Mr Haller. “UK industry is bouncing back from the shackles of the pandemic. We tend to be a good barometer for the health of the sector and, while our refurbishment and repair work has always been strong, this is definitely our biggest year for a long time for new machine installs.” Bruderer UK is a leader in high precision punching technology and turnkey solutions. Its high-speed presses are synonymous with optimum performance, at the highest levels of precision with proven reliability in the sheet metal stamping and forming industry. The company range is focused on the BSTA series with a nominal force of 18 to 250 tonnes and a stroke rate range of between one to 3,000 strokes per minute. Mr Haller added: “There’s a real appetite to invest in the latest technology and we must be prepared for this by ensuring we have the capabilities and technical expertise on hand to identify the right solutions for clients – solutions that will deliver cost savings, new capacity, and efficiencies. “We’re responding to the challenge by putting plans in place for further investments in the UK – more news will follow once contracts are signed.” Q Bruderer UK www.bruderer.co.uk New machine installs hit record levels at Bruderer Sourcing a Subcontractor just got easier Scan here for more Bruderer UK articles
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