PES Media Production Engineering Solutions ukmfgnews July 2023 pesmedia.com Companies collaborate to build Paul McCartney guitar tribute Pages 26-27 Strawberry Fields of steel Machined Components: pages 32-37 Laser Profiling: page 38 SUBCONTRACTING SOLUTIONS Image supplied courtesy of The Beatles Story, Liverpool
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www.pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions July 2023 3 For me, the subject of artificial intelligence invokes a combination of emotions. I’ve always been interested in technology so the mechanics behind AI and its potential floats my boat. Conversely, there’s nearly eight billion people on this planet and the last thing I want is for AI to negatively impact on quality of life and wellbeing. I remember interviewing Mazak’s Mark Hall about six years ago and he told me that AI was being used to build machines at the company’s main manufacturing plants in Japan. OK the conversation was more about Smart factories than pure AI, but the principle of machines building machines fried my brain a bit back then. From healthcare to transportation, the potential for AI to revolutionise the way we live and work is huge. AI algorithms can analyse medical imaging data from CT and MRI scans rapidly and accurately, leading to earlier detection of nasty diseases (including cancers), better treatment and ultimately better outcomes. That’s if you’re still alive after the wait on the NHS to get the scan in the first place of course. Maybe AI can help with that as well by eliminating administration delays, accessing patient data, records, genetic information, and lifestyle factors quickly to develop personalised treatment plans? GPs have become largely invisible since the pandemic (I still haven’t worked out why). Perhaps they will become victims of the AI revolution? Because what worries me is how humans fit into this equation? Remember back in the 1980s when robotic interaction was first discussed, there was this romantic notion that everyone would have their own personal robot that would go to work on your behalf while you simply collected the pay packet at the end of the month. Nice idea – and never say never – but there’s no doubt that AI is already replacing human workers and despite what anyone tells you, it will continue to do so. I asked ChatGPT: ‘What occupations could be placed at risk through AI’? The reply included: manufacturing and warehousing workers; customer service representatives; drivers and delivery personnel (via autonomous vehicles and drones); data entry and admin workers; financial analysts and advisers; retail workers; and healthcare diagnosticians. But let’s not forget that AI will also eliminate a lot of the boring, mundane, repetitive, or dangerous tasks in working life so humans can be put to better use. That’s a good thing. I do worry about AI regulation – a hot topic at the moment. This is 100% the responsibility of governments and is unquestionably the most important part of the whole shebang. AI will get better and better at learning and it’s cleverer than we are already – but humans are at the top of the food chain and it has to stay that way. If the situation becomes reversed then the results are unthinkable. Proactive governance will ensure the responsible and ethical development of AI systems. It must be a priority – but it must be balanced. We mustn’t stifle AI and impede the exploration of AI’s transformative potential for the greater good. Dave Tudor Editorial Director Birkenhead, Merseyside-based Diamond Precision Engineering was tasked with making a giant guitar to mark the 80th birthday of Sir Paul McCartney. As PES discovers, teamwork played a significant part in turning the project from design into reality. See pages 26-27 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 Media Production Engineering Solutions ukmfgnews July 2023 pesmedia.com Companies collaborate to build Paul McCartney guitar tribute Pages 26-27 Strawberry Fields of steel Machined Components: pages 32-37 Laser Profiling: page 38 SUBCONTRACTING SOLUTIONS Image supplied courtesy of The Beatles Story, Liverpool 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 326 ISSN 1460-3926 EVENTS September 2023 EMO Hannover 2023 Hannover 18-23 September 2023 September 2023 UK Metals Expo NEC, Birmingham, UK 13-14 September 2023 September 2023 DSEI 2023 EXCEL, London 12-15 September 2023 November 2023 Advanced Engineering 2023 NEC, Birmingham, UK 1-2 November 2023 5 BAE Systems awarded £270m Royal Navy radar contract Big birthday bash marks Unison’s half century in business NEWS MACHINING 18 Lightening the load on spindle bearings EDM 21 Sodick machines and support underpin subcontractor’s success TOOLING & WORKHOLDING 22 A new centre for tooling knowledge and collaboration Dental prostheses machine employs bespoke zero-point workholding SAWING TECHNOLOGY 25 Stockholder’s investment cuts lead-times SOFTWARE IN MANUFACTURING 26 Strawberry Fields of steel AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS 28 How collaborative robots are changing the ancient art of welding SUBCONTRACTING 32 Ceratizit helps precision subcontractor transform its machining processes Manufacturing leader drives aerospace firm to double turnover 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
TURNING CENTRES 5 AXIS DOUBLE COLUMN SUPERIOR CONTROLS MACHINING CENTRES 12 Merlin Centre • Lancaster Road • Cressex Business Park High Wycombe • Buckinghamshire • HP12 3TB • Tel: (01494) 442222 www.hurco.co.uk, sales@hurco.co.uk, service@hurco.co.uk Your partner for 5 axis machining Several configurations to suit your application Transform plane feature for 5-sided programming Simultaneous 5 axis is standard on all Hurco 5 axis machines SRTi Range • Features a swivel B axis and a rotary C axis set in the table • Maximum 5 axis capacity within a minimum footprint • Can also be used as a full-capacity 3 axis machine • Machines available ex stock VCi/VCXi Range • Cantilever design allows excellent access • Ideal for one-offs • Greater Z clearance • Entry-level and high performance models available Ui Range • Most economical 5 axis configuration • 3 model sizes and several spindle options • Easy to automate with ProCobot or Erowa options • Machines available ex stock DCX-5Si Range • For the BIGGEST of 5 axis jobs • Machines up to 4.2m in X and 2.6m travel in Y • High-speed or High-torque spindle options available • Massive rigid structure for improved accuracy
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions July 2023 5 NEWS COMPANY FINDER Aberlink 7 ASG TGM 33 BAE Systems 5 Britten-Norman 15 Bystronic 38 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 32 Citizen Machinery 8 Crown Manufacturing 38 Cyan Tec 30 Design Laser Play 26 Diamond Precision Engineering 26 Dormer Pramet 24 Engineering Technology Group 6 FANUC 30 Ficep 31 Gestamp 14 Guhring UK 12 Heller Machine Tools 8 In-Comm Training 14 Kasto 25 Kingsbury 18 Lantek 26 M&E Week 7 MAS Precision Engineering 34 NSK Precision Engineering 36 PSL Datatrack 37 Queen’s University Belfast 11 Roemheld UK 24 Rohm GB 10 RST Engineering 21 Sandvik Coromant 22 Sodi-Tech EDM 21 SRD Engineering 32 SWMAS 16 Thame Workholding 8 Unison 5 Universal Robots 28 Vision Engineering 6 WorldSkills 10 XYZ Machine Tools 36 EDITORIAL ADVERTISING 1st Machine Tool Accessories 17 5th Axis/Grip-Tec 24 Accurate Cutting Services 25 Blum-Novotest 29 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 40 CNC Robotics 30 Compass Business Finance 6 EMO 23 10 Filtration Service Engineering 13 Haas 15 Havant Sheetmetal 36 Hurco 4 Kerf Developments 38 Lang Technik 28 Lantek 14 MIE Solutions 32 Mills CNC 9 Mini Gears 16 Muffett Engineering Solutions 33 NCMT 18 Qualiturn Products 33 Sodi-tech EDM 20 Subcon Drilling 36 Swissmatic 34 Thame Workholding 31 Thermwood 7 Wallwork 35 Ward Hi-Tech 11 Wealdpark 37 WFL/Kyal Machine Tools 19 XYZ Machine Tools 2 NEWS Sourcing a Subcontractor just got easier Unison, the UK-based inventors of all-electric tube manipulation, marked its 50th anniversary with a big birthday celebration at its Scarboroughbased headquarters on Wednesday 24th May 2023. Just short of 100 customers, colleagues, friends and members of the Made In Yorkshire trade group attended the event, which began with a hearty brunch and a warm welcome by Unison’s joint managing director, Alan Pickering. Technology talks and machine tool presentations followed. These included demonstrations of Unison’s ultra-precise, allelectric Breeze range of tube bending machines, as well as fibre laser cutting machines from Unison’s sister company, Nukon Lasers UK. Unison’s newly released Opt2Sim Scan handheld 3D tube scanning system – the latest addition to the company’s advanced Opt2Sim Suite of tube simulation software – also attracted a great deal of attention. “I’d like to thank everyone who attended and helped make our 50th anniversary celebrations such a resounding success,” commented Alan Pickering. “It was fantastic to meet customers and friends old and new – many of whom had travelled a considerable distance to celebrate with us. “I’d also like to thank every member of the incredible Unison team for the hard work they put into making the day possible. Here’s to another 50 years of intelligent tube technology.” Q Unison www.unisonltd.com The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded BAE Systems a 10 year contract worth £270m to support the Royal Navy’s three main radar systems: Artisan; Sampson; and Long Range Radar (LRR). Every major Royal Navy ship from the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers to the Type 45 destroyers feature at least one of these systems which are designed and built by BAE Systems. The £270m support contract replaces a number of existing contracts, delivering increased value for money and allowing greater investment in future technology development. Under the contract, BAE Systems engineers will provide maintenance support and upgrade existing radars, including a roll out of technology upgrades to systems already in use as well as those being installed on the Royal Navy’s new Type 26 frigates, which the company is currently building in Glasgow. The MoD and BAE Systems are jointly investing a further £50m to develop the next generation of radar technology which the Royal Navy requires to tackle emerging threats, including ballistic missiles and drones. The MoD will contribute £37.5m and BAE Systems will invest £12.5m into research and development. This commitment is designed to ensure that British naval radar technology remains a global market leader. Scott Jamieson, managing director of BAE Systems’ Maritime Services business, said: “This is a pivotal moment for UK radar technology development. This contract secures a decade of investment into a critical capability for the UK armed forces. It also allows us to evolve future radar technology with the MoD to sustain maritime air dominance and vital radar development skills and experience in the UK.” The support contract and joint investment secures around 400 highly-skilled British jobs and underpins BAE Systems’ radar business in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth in Hampshire, Great Baddow in Essex and Hillend, near Edinburgh. It will also create new support roles in engineering and project management as well as additional investment in the UK supply chain of SME and hightech suppliers. Q BAE Systems www.baesystems.com BAE Systems awarded £270m Royal Navy radar contract From left: Alan Pickering and Julian Kidger – Unison’s joint managing directors Big birthday bash marks Unison’s half century in business Scan here for more Unison articles Scan here for more BAE Systems articles
6 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Thinking Differently about Finance innovative sustainable connected flexible competitive straight-forward relational simple Call us on01732 833477or visit compassbusinessfinance.co.uk As one of the UK’s premier suppliers of high-technology machine tools, the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) has expanded its portfolio with the addition of the Axile brand of machine tools. Entering an agreement with Axile, ETG is now the exclusive UK and Ireland technology partner for the brand which manufactures high-end 5-axis vertical machining centres, mill/turn centres and heavy-duty double-column machining centres covering a large spectrum of sizes from 200mm up to 1,200mm table diameter. The Axile brand is known for high performance levels, robust and rigid build quality, integration with automation solutions and its Industry 4.0 technology. Its Art monitoring system delivers agile smart machining that enables 24/7 automated production and allows operators and key decision makers to digitally manage processes by monitoring all wear components, energy consumption and fluids such as lubricant and coolant, supplying real-time status updates on the machine and its components. From a machine perspective, ETG will be introducing the Axile G Series of premium gantry-type vertical machining centres and the DC series of doublecolumn full 5-axis vertical machining centres that demonstrate maximum rigidity for heavy-duty cutting of lengthy workpieces. The G Series is currently available in two models, the G6 and the G8. There is also a complete range of options available for mill/turn machining with the MT versions of the machines. Commenting on the introduction of the Axile brand, ETG’s group managing director Martin Doyle commented: “The opportunity to represent the Axile brand in the UK & Ireland will hugely benefit both parties. Axile will yield greater market exposure through our sales and distribution channels while having confidence that the ETG service network will fully support customers. “From an ETG perspective, the Axile brand and its G and DC series perfectly complement our existing product lines by filling niche areas in our expansive portfolio. The build quality, performance and digitisation technology available through the Art monitoring system is exemplary. Our team is excited to embark on this journey with Axile.” Axile founder and president, Dr Paul Chang concurred: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with ETG, a renowned machine tool dealer in the UK and Ireland. ETG’s expertise, knowledge and technically competent sales strategies, along with their exceptional aftersales service and support team, played a significant role in our decision to appoint them as our partner.” Q Engineering Technology Group www.engtechgroup.com Vision Engineering, a leading provider of innovative inspection, metrology, and digital 3D visualisation solutions, has launched Mantis 3rd Gen, the latest addition to its bestselling and awardwinning range of ergonomic optical stereo microscopes. Mantis is in use in tens of thousands of R&D, manufacturing and analytical sites around the world. The new microscope incorporates the latest developments in optics, digital cameras and fully adjustable LED lighting, to keep Mantis at the forefront of stereo imaging. Mantis is designed for precision engineering, electronic engineering, medical device manufacture, and a wide range of other applications that require high-quality images and superior ergonomics. It features an innovative patented, eyepiece-less design that delivers a large, highquality optical stereo image directly into the user’s eyes, making it more comfortable and easier to view than traditional microscopes. Manipulative, rework and restoration tasks need stereo images to allow easy hand to eye coordination and depth perception. Mantis 3rd Gen combines stereo optical images with high resolution camera options for manipulation and recording. The Mantis 3rd Gen also features long working distance and excellent depth perception, now with a choice of three magnifications, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. It also now comes as standard with five different ways to illuminate the subject, giving the operator the flexibility to adjust the lighting to get the perfect image for viewing. In addition to its outstanding image quality and ergonomics, Mantis also features a powerful digital imaging system that allows operators to capture, review, and share high-resolution images. This makes it easy to share work with colleagues, document results, and train new employees. Substantial R&D has resulted in a new range of stand options, to allow flexibility, stability and a reduced footprint. Mark Curtis, managing director at Vision Engineering commented: “As our customers have told us for the last 28 years, Mantis is an ideal solution for anyone who needs to perform precise work with small objects. “We invest substantial R&D time and effort in exploiting the opportunities that fast-moving optic, digital and lighting technologies offer our dedicated customer base. Mantis 3rd Gen offers the best of both worlds: superior ergonomics and optical image quality, combined with the latest digital imaging technology.” Q Vision Engineering www.visioneng.com/mantis Vision launches 3rd Gen Mantis microscope ETG introduces Axile brand to the UK and Ireland Axile G6 5-axis machine Scan here for more Vision Engineering articles Scan here for more Engineering Technology Group articles
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions July 2023 7 NEWS Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2023 has become the biggest industrial sector event in the UK in its second year, according to statistics released by event organiser the Nineteen Group. Over the course of the live shows on 7th and 8th June, 10,355 manufacturers, designers, engineers and maintenance professionals attended the event at the NEC. The week began with digital sessions produced by The Manufacturer, a BBC radio broadcast followed by four live events featuring high profile speakers including Nusrat Ghani, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade. Over 150 speakers took to the stage over two days. The six solution theatres covering Automation & Robotics, Digital Transformation (sponsored by Google Cloud), Innovation (sponsored by Siemens), Industrial Data & AI, IIOT & Connectivity and Maintenance were also packed on both days. Senior leaders attended the Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit and the SME Growth Summit, organised by The Manufacturer, while also visiting the Google Leaders’ Lounge and The Manufacturer Top 100 Award ceremony. As part of the STEM programme, more than 450 students attended the exhibition on the final afternoon. Haf Cennydd, portfolio director for Manufacturing & Engineering Week said: “To have built the biggest UK event for the industrial sector in just two years has surpassed our expectations and clearly demonstrates that bringing together Smart Factory Expo, Design & Engineering Expo and Maintec was a great idea. With industrial events also taking place at the same time and venue run by other event organisers plus the addition of Drives & Controls, Air-Tech and Fluid Power & Systems, there will only be more to see and do in 2024.” The event also delivered return on investment for its exhibitors. Matthew Aldridge, MD of igus UK, said: “It’s been fantastic. Probably the busiest show I can remember in the last decade.” Dates for 2024 have been confirmed as 5-6 June for Smart Factory Expo, Design & Engineering Expo and Maintec (two days, Hall 4) and 4-6 June for Drives & Controls, Air-Tech and Fluid Power & Systems (three days, Hall 5). Q M&E Week www.mandeweek.co.uk Innovation has been at the heart of metrology specialist Aberlink’s success since its incorporation in 1993. In July, the company celebrated 30 years in business. The Gloucestershire-based business is a true British manufacturing success story. Its tagline, ‘Innovative Metrology’, has been a driving force behind product development for the last three decades. Its bestselling Axiom coordinate measuring machine was just the beginning, as the organisation established itself as a global provider of affordable CMMs and optical measuring systems known for their quality, accuracy, robustness, speed, and ease of use. Aberlink’s products are widely used in high-demand industries such as aerospace, automotive, motorsport, electronics, oil and gas, and medical where precision is paramount. Through a trusted network of overseas agents, Aberlink’s products are sold in virtually every country throughout the industrialised world, with 75% of total output exported. “Behind our success is a steadfast commitment to research and development, which has led to a steady stream of commercially successful product launches,” commented Aberlink’s sales and marketing director Chris Davies. “Our innovative approach to metrology, use of advanced materials, and understanding of design-for-manufacturing principles has resulted in class-leading performance. Our skilled workforce is committed to producing the highest quality products possible, catering to the world’s most demanding consumers – quality professionals.” Aberlink’s in-house, fully self-contained business model ensures complete control over the manufacturing process. This includes product design, machining, assembly, and all software development. To mark its 30th anniversary, Aberlink is offering a limited edition Axiom CMM with a special colour scheme that pays homage to the original product. Q Aberlink www.aberlink.com M&E Week becomes leading showcase 30 years of Aberlink success Scan here for more Aberlink articles
8 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Horizontal machining centre manufacturer Heller has become the new technology partner of Porsche Penske Motorsport. The cooperation was visible for the first time at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans from 10-11 June 2023. On the new partnership, Heller CEO Dr Thorsten Schmidt said: “We and Porsche share the same values: precision in detail and sustainability in development and production. As part of the cooperation, we will work closely with Porsche Motorsport and the entire technology network.” Thomas Laudenbach, vice president of Porsche Motorsport added: “We are looking forward to bringing innovative technologies and sustainability to motorsport and to being at the forefront of new developments.” With the newly developed endurance race car Porsche 963, Porsche Penske Motorsport is embarking on a historic year, as the legendary race in Le Mans took place for the 100th time this year. In celebration, the car sported special festive livery in a colourful design that has been given the name ‘Butterfly’. Further appearances in the WEC racing series will follow. The team is also participating in the IMSA racing series, which includes appearances on famous tracks such as Daytona and Indianapolis. The Heller logo is clearly visible on the Porsche 963. Q Heller Machine Tools https://uk.heller.biz Marcus Hamlyn has been appointed as sales director by Thame Workholding. He joins the Long Crendon, Aylesburybased business after nine successful years as a technical sales manager with another leading workholding company. Thame is a British manufacturing organisation, offering a wide range of workholding solutions to engineers worldwide. Its trademarked TEC chuck jaws have been trusted by engineers for more than four decades. Thame designs, manufactures and supplies a wide range of standard and bespoke chuck jaws along with an extensive selection of ancillary equipment such as zero point, rotary and prismatic vacuum workholding products, vices, chucks and automation solutions. The company has established exclusive distributor agreements with a number of prominent global workholding specialists such as Air Vise, HWR, Witte and Samchully. Thame managing director Mark Thomas commented: “It’s taken me some time to find the right person but I’m confident that Marcus has all the credentials to help drive the business forward and build a professional sales team around him. He’s something of a rare breed – a well-respected, qualified engineer but with many years of sales experience. “This is very much a senior role,” he added. “Part of Marcus’ brief will be to recruit and manage two new sales people to expand our reach geographically. The other key aspect will be to use his experience and knowledge to help grow the business and expand into new markets.” “Thame is a true British manufacturer and I was genuinely taken aback by the quality of its in-house design and manufacturing capabilities as well as its ability to provide an industry leading range of both standard and bespoke chuck jaws and other workholding equipment,” Marcus Hamlyn enthused. “The company has worked hard in recent years to build up its inventory of products available from stock, and the webshop, launched last year, has been incredibly successful. Through a thorough re-evaluation and streamlining of its manufacturing processes, the vast majority of standard chuck jaws can be delivered next day. For specials, it’s typically four to eight weeks. “Thame has a longstanding pedigree in the industry and I’m really looking forward to helping the business progress to the next level,” he concluded. Q Thame Workholding www.thameworkholding.com (L-R) Mark Randall, manufacturing and engineering director; Marcus Hamlyn, sales director; and managing director Mark Thomas Citizen Machinery appoints new sales engineer Eric Tollett, who has 25 years’ experience working in the machine tool sector, has been appointed by Citizen Machinery UK as area sales engineer for territories in North-East England. The new appointee will be responsible for sales of the company’s Cincom slidinghead and Miyano fixed-head lathes and related automation solutions. The company has also announced an increase in the number of sales territories around the UK from five to six. While working at a subcontract machining firm and studying at South Tyneside College and Newcastle University, Mr Tollett completed a fiveyear apprenticeship in machine tool maintenance, during which time he gained an ONC, HNC and HND in the subject. He then joined a machine tool distributor in the Midlands where he worked as a service engineer for 10 years, subsequently moving into sales roles for three well-known machine tool firms before starting his current position with Citizen Machinery UK. On his new role, Mr Tollett commented: “I regard this as a great opportunity to work for a premier Japanese lathe manufacturer with a strong reputation for producing high-end machines and for providing fully integrated production solutions.” Q Citizen Machinery www.citizenmachinery.co.uk Marcus Hamlyn joins Thame Workholding The Porsche 963 race car sporting ‘Butterfly’ livery and carrying the Heller logo Some facts about the Porsche 963 Heller cooperates with Porsche Penske Motorsport Scan here for more Heller Machine Tools articles Scan here for more Citizen Machinery articles Eric Tollett
Component manufacturers don’t think twice when it comes to investing in 5-axis machines that deliver unrivalled speed, precision, flexibility and process reliability. That helps explain why demand for our DVF 5000 machines remains so high. Equipped with 17kW/12,000rpm direct-drive spindles (22kW/18,000rpm option); 40m/min rapids; generous sized tool changers (up to 120 tools); integrated thermal compensation systems; the latest controls and an 8 pallet automatic workpiece changer option - DVF 5000 machines are helping component manufacturers improve their productivity, performance... and profitability. They could definitely do the same for you. To find out more visit www.millscnc.co.uk or call 01926 736736. Mills CNC: Like No-one Else! The DVF 5000 simultaneous 5-axis machine. It would still be a great machine with just half the features! Mills CNC Technology Campus: 01926 736736 www.millscnc.co.uk
10 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS British manufacturing is facing a major crisis, as productivity, recruitment and training lag behind international competitors. With a large number of skilled jobs officially deemed ‘hard to fill’, 51% of employers are not working with training providers to help young people gain industry relevant skills and 41% of manufacturers admit doing absolutely nothing to attract young people into the sector. An astonishing 83% of young people report facing ‘barriers’ to enter manufacturing with 48% saying that they have never received any information about why or how to do so. At the same time 60% of young people (16-24) said they would not consider a career in manufacturing. These figures are revealed in a report commissioned by WorldSkills UK, in partnership with BAE Systems, undertaken by Learning & Work Institute, which was published in late May. WorldSkills UK, the international arm of the country’s skill system, which commissioned the report, is calling businesses, governments, and educators to ‘wake up’ and take action to avert the looming crisis as alarm bells ring. Ben Blackledge, the Interim CEO of WorldSkills UK commented: “The situation is hugely concerning – we are now at crisis point. A very worrying pattern has emerged with two thirds of manufacturers reporting that lack of access to skills is proving an obstacle to business and 60% of young people saying that they wouldn’t consider a job in the sector. “British manufacturing is finding it tough enough to fill thousands of skilled vacancies – yet almost half say they aren’t doing anything to attract young people into the sector. At a time when 42% of vacancies are officially recognised as ‘hard to fill’, and access to skilled workers from other countries is disrupted, British manufacturers cannot afford to sit back and wait for someone else to do the heavy lifting. “Through our partnerships with employers, we know there are some great examples of employers engaging with skills providers and the positive effect that this is having on young people when they make their career choices,” he added. “However, we urgently need a more collaborative approach, with industry and education working more closely together to show young people how rewarding pursuing a career in manufacturing can be.” The report, published on 25th May, was compiled following analysis and surveys with more than 350 manufacturers and over a thousand young people (aged 16-24). Q WorldSkills www.worldskillsuk.org Welcome to the world’s leading trade fair for production technology. UK manufacturing skills reaching crisis point: WorldSkills UK report issues wake-up call Due to the imminent retirement of his predecessor, Bob James, Phillip Meechan has been appointed as the new managing director of Rohm GB. He will be responsible for the development and growth of sales for the leading German workholding specialist. With over 40 years working in the engineering industry in the UK and Germany – and nearly 30 of those being in sales – Mr Meechan brings a wealth of experience to the role. Starting his career with a five-year apprenticeship at a British cutting tool manufacturer where he gained an ONC and HNC in Mechanical Engineering, he progressed to a works management position for a precision subcontract engineering company before moving into sales. Commenting on his appointment, Mr Meechan said: “Rohm has an outstanding reputation for high quality and reliable workholding products, including vices, centres, manual and power chucks for machine tools as well as a full range of clamping mandrels. “Building on the solid foundations established by Bob and the team, my primary objective is to further develop and strengthen relationships with existing and new customers to increase our market share.” Q Rohm GB www.roehm.biz Workholding expert recruits Phillip Meechan as new MD Ben Blackledge
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions July 2023 11 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 A £1m investment from Innovate UK will enable Northern Ireland’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) to start supporting local businesses in the next few months. AMIC’s flagship building, which was granted planning permission in May, will be a 10,500m² stateof-the-art ‘Factory of the Future’, set to open in 2026 at Global Point Newtownabbey. It’s part of plans for a £100m investment in AMIC, a Belfast Region City Deal project delivered by Queen’s University in partnership with industry, Ulster University and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, to reinvigorate local industrial potential and address the future technology and skills challenges faced by the region’s manufacturing sector. The Innovate UK funding will help build capabilities within AMIC this year in automated food manufacturing, digital twins, and embedded digital verification technology. A series of digital manufacturing testbeds will be available to businesses to explore digital manufacturing technologies, use cases and how they can be applied to address business challenges. It will support plans to grow AMIC’s existing strengths in smart design, digitalising manufacturing, smart nano, and sustainable polymers and composites, providing a world class offering to businesses in Northern Ireland and beyond. The funding will also strengthen the relationship between AMIC and the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult – a network of research and innovation centres established by Innovate UK to transform UK manufacturing – aimed at making the wider UK manufacturing innovation ecosystem and funding more accessible to Northern Ireland businesses. HVM Catapult insights from over a decade of manufacturing innovation have supported AMIC’s development, and the Catapult’s chief technology officer Professor Sam Turner has been seconded to AMIC as interim chief executive. Professor Turner said: “The £1m investment from Innovate UK will accelerate our partnership’s support for the Northern Irish manufacturing sector. The region’s full potential can be unlocked with the combined industry expertise and academic knowledge from AMIC, HVM Catapult, Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, and the thousands of SMEs which are the sector’s backbone. I look forward to further developing this new hub to benefit both Northern Irish and UK manufacturing innovation.” Q Queen’s University Belfast www.qub.ac.uk/info Paul Malcolmson, regional manager Northern Ireland, Innovate UK and Professor Sam Turner, Interim CEO, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre NI businesses to benefit from £1m Innovate UK funding for AMIC
12 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Guhring UK marked its 50th anniversary recently with a celebratory event at its Birmingham headquarters. Hosted at the state-of-the-art manufacturing site in Estone Drive in May, the cutting tool specialist welcomed technical partners, customers, suppliers as well as esteemed guests including chairman of the Guhring Group board, Oliver Gühring from Germany. Guhring UK was founded 50 years ago in a rented facility a few miles from its existing site as an operation selling drills to local manufacturers with a trade counter for ‘walk-in’ ordering. Today the company operates from a 60,000ft² manufacturing facility that produces solid carbide and HSS round tooling as well as PCD tools with a complete service for bespoke specialised tooling production, tool regrinding, coating, tool design and more. Opening proceedings, Guhring UK managing director Chris Weston presented the company’s first product catalogue from 50 years ago and discussed the journey from a small local supplier to one of the UK’s most successful cutting tool manufacturers. Mr Weston said: “Today, the range has grown exponentially. We can now offer almost every rotary cutting tool from drills, reamers, taps and milling cutters in HSS, carbide, PCD and Cermet along with grooving tools, tool holders and vending and tool management systems. Most of these tools are manufactured here in the UK and we also hold up to £5m of inventory of standard product lines for next-day delivery. “Moving to this fantastic facility in 2017 was a huge leap forward and it will be the springboard to help us grow over the next 50 years. We have 35,000ft² of land to expand our manufacturing capabilities – futureproofing our business for the longer-term future.” Chairman of the board and fourth generation of the family-owned business, Oliver Gühring said he was hugely proud of the UK facility. He also discussed how the Group’s worldwide subsidiaries achieved record growth in 2022, something that is forecast to continue through 2023 and beyond, despite worldwide geopolitical factors such as the Ukraine war, restrictions on business with Russia, US, and China tensions, and COVID. “We currently have 47 subsidiaries around the world but from the Board’s perspective Guhring UK has always been perfectly managed,” he affirmed. “I would like to thank the management, especially Chris Weston for many years of service, and the whole team for 50 years of hard work at Guhring UK and excellent cooperation with us in Germany. “We have a lot of trust and respect for each other. I am sure my father, Dr Jörg Gühring would be very proud of the development of the business in the UK.” Gareth Jones, managing director of InComm training also gave a presentation on the future of manufacturing and why companies like Guhring that invest hugely in apprenticeships and staff training are the future of UK manufacturing. Following the presentations, guests were given tours of the facility including Guhring’s in-house built CNC tool grinding machines, coating processes, inspection, and bespoke tooling services, including specials made by additive manufacturing processes. They were also invited to test their skills with some fun activities such as golf, a driving simulator and an arena set up by nearby Guhring customer RoboChallenge for attendees to pit their wits against fellow attendees in the robot wars arena. Chris Bush, Guhring UK national sales manager said: “It is nice to have something positive to celebrate and invite all our customers and partners to enjoy together because ultimately their success is our success. “We were the first Guhring subsidiary outside Germany and the blueprint for all other subsidiaries around the world so management has always shown a lot of faith in us. Our sales are currently seeing an upward trend and we have room for expansion at this site when we need it. One of the advantages of using Guhring’s own grinding machines is that we can easily add extra capacity if we need to.” Many of the staff at Guhring UK have more than 20 years’ service with the company. A fact that Mr Bush was understandably proud. He added: “Staff retention is very important to us because cutter grinding is a very niche industry. Many years go into training our staff so we really try our best not to lose them.” The Friday event was followed by a Saturday family day for employees to invite their relatives to the facility to tour the factory and participate in the fun-filled activities. In September, the Guhring Group will be celebrating 125 years of business with festive activities set to be hosted in Germany. Q Guhring UK www.guhring.co.uk Guests having fun in the Robot Wars arena 50 years at the cutting-edge Guhring UK’s 50th anniversary in Birmingham was held for staff, customers, technical partners and suppliers Scan here for more Guhring UK articles
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14 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS 8QOHDVK WKH HɝFLHQF\ RI \RXU IDFWRU\ ZZZ ODQWHN FRP ZHDUHODQWHN CAD/CAM MES QUOTING & ERP INTEGRATIONS ANALYTICS Take your sheet metal factory to the next level with Lantek. Our cutting-edge software streamlines RSHUDWLRQV DQG RSWLPL]HV ZRUNȵRZ ZLWK DXWRPDWLRQ tools and real-time analytics. Stay ahead of the competition and thrive in today's manufacturing landscape with Lantek's innovative multivendor software. One of the UK’s leading automotive suppliers has joined forces with In-Comm Training to boost its learning and development offer and support employee retention. Gestamp, which manufactures metal components for use in car body structures, has invested in a dedicated training centre at its plant in Four Ashes, Wolverhampton. Six classrooms are being used to deliver Lean Manufacturing apprenticeships for a minimum of 60 existing team members every year, as well as a host of other development activities designed to increase the skills base of its 650-strong workforce. The Gestamp Training Centre took 12 months to develop and houses two In-Comm training experts, as well as Gestamp training specialists to oversee the Level 2 course that combines theory with practical shopfloor tuition. Staff undertake a 10-week programme before completing an improvement project on the shopfloor and an endpoint assessment. This initiative has been supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority, allowing Gestamp access to unspent levy funding to use the apprenticeship model to develop existing staff and new recruits. The longerterm vision for the facility is that it will grow to offer more technical courses and qualifications. “We’ve transitioned and recruited 650 staff to our new Four Ashes manufacturing facility and, now this is complete, the next step was to get the centre up and running,” commented Philip Carr, learning and development manager at Gestamp. “In-Comm has been supporting us with apprenticeships and upskilling courses for more than a decade, so are the perfect partner to team up with to make this a reality. “In addition to boosting the skills within the business, we also want to give employees an incentive to stay with us. The current labour market is so competitive and retention is just as big as recruitment for us.” Gestamp invested more than New centre opens for skills development and retention Bekki Phillips and Philip Carr
pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions July 2023 15 NEWS NEWS HAAS AUTOMATION • 01603 760539 • ENQUIRIES@HAAS.CO.UK THE BEST SELLING 5-AXIS MORE CAPACITY MORE COMPACT MORE CHOICE WWW.HAAS.CO.UK FOR DETAILS UK aircraft manufacturer BrittenNorman has revealed plans to increase production rates and to repatriate aircraft production to its historic home in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. The move is a major change for the British SME, which has been manufacturing its aircraft in Eastern Europe since the late 1960s. Britten-Norman will invest in new jigs and tooling to create two additional production lines as well as modernising production and decarbonising the site with new sustainable energy initiatives. The investment is in preparation for intensified interest following the planned launch of an OEM, zeroemissions Islander aircraft in 2026 as well as wider interest that has resulted from the introduction of finance and leasing options for the resurgent subregional aircraft market. In the coming months the company will be embarking on a recruitment campaign, further boosting job creation in the UK’s Solent Local Enterprise Partnership area. The focus will include aircraft fitters and technicians, production engineering and supply chain roles. The expansion will also create new traineeship and apprenticeship opportunities on the Isle of Wight and in South Hampshire. In addition to the ramp up in production, the company will be investing in its supply chain and spare parts stock holdings to support its existing operators. “The project is a great success story for the British aircraft manufacturing industry. I am very proud to be involved in this next chapter at Britten-Norman,” commented chief executive, William Hynett. Britten-Norman will retain its 34,000ft² site at Solent Airport Daedalus, home of the final assembly line for the Islander. The site also provides OEM aircraft refurbishment, EASA Part 145 MRO services, international field servicing, and specialist avionics and mission systems integration. As a Garmin-approved dealer, the company offers services to the wider general aviation community. Britten-Norman is a leading subregional aircraft manufacturer specialising in twin-engine piston and turboprop STOL aircraft. The company is a UK-based SME, exporting 97% of circa 1,300 aircraft manufactured to date. In April 2023, the company signed a deal with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions for a merger. A consortium of CAeS investors comprising HydrogenOne, Safran Corporate Ventures and the UAE-based investment firm Strategic Development Fund (SDF) will invest up to £10m in the new company, including up to £5m investment from HydrogenOne once the merger is finalised. Q Britten-Norman www.britten-norman.com Britten-Norman to move aircraft production back to the UK £50m in the purpose-built facility in Four Ashes, a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant which produces hot and cold stampings for all the major automotive brands. The company is also working with In-Comm to deliver apprenticeships in toolmaking, robotics, maintenance and continuous improvement. Bekki Phillips, chief operating officer at In-Comm added: “This is another fantastic example of how we are taking an employer-led approach to bridging the skills gap in industry.” Q Gestamp www.gestamp.com Q In-Comm Training www.in-comm.co.uk
16 July 2023 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS MINI GEARS GROUP Quality Standards: AS9100D & BS EN ISO 9001:2015 For a competitive quote contact us today: +44 (0) 161 432 0222 enquiries@minigears.co.uk Manufacturing Components & Sub-Assemblies for the Rail Industry for over 50 years From Stations, to Line, to Train Mini Gears (Stockport) Ltd, Top Gear House, Bletchley Road, Heaton Mersey Industrial Estate, Stockport, Greater Manchester SK4 3ED www.minigears.co.uk Manufacturing CEOs, directors and managers have revealed the industry’s future growth and investment priorities in the latest UK Manufacturing Barometer by SWMAS (The South West Manufacturing Advisory Service). While firms reported that supply chain price changes (89%) and energy costs (82%) are causing the greatest negative impacts for manufacturing businesses, the number of firms struggling with inflation has reduced by 4% compared to last quarter’s findings, indicating early signs of relief. Manufacturers are taking action to address rising costs by implementing process efficiency improvements (66%) and considering the use of different suppliers (61%). As a direct cause of rising supply chain costs, 17% of manufacturers plan to bring production back in-house. Despite these ongoing challenges, the manufacturing industry’s investment plans are optimistic. More than half (52%) of respondents are experiencing increased levels of trade compared to their pre-COVID position. Furthermore, 44% of manufacturing organisations have experienced an increase in sales turnover in the past six months, with 74% predicting a further increase over the next six months. Nick Golding, managing director of SWMAS, commented: “The increased optimism around future sales is positive; however, with firms continuing to invest in inventory to buffer challenges with supply chains, and a third of respondents indicating customer orders are being delayed or starting to be cancelled, companies need support to ensure that planned future investments are not constrained as a result of cash being tied up in inventory which is then affected by order cancellations or delays.” When looking at skills shortages, 72% of manufacturers agree the lack of suitably skilled staff is still causing a negative impact to business, resulting in a shift in priorities to invest in employee training and upskilling, as reported by 68% of firms. Mr Golding continued: “With increasing calls for an industrial strategy for manufacturing, support for the sector is needed to respond to increasing international competition. “With the US launching the inflation Reduction Act and the EU responding with subsidy support for growth sectors such as green technologies, the Government needs to support manufacturing to avoid the UK missing out on these huge opportunities for growth. “Many SMEs are part of global supply chains, but with the majority of firms focused on the domestic market, it is vital that the UK attracts major investors for these future growth industries to support the wider manufacturing sector. “The Government is repeatedly talking about Advanced Manufacturing as a subset of the sector, but this does not recognise the significant capabilities and investments that SMEs are making in automation, digitisation and systems, to create advanced manufacturing production systems. “Advanced Manufacturing is not a subset of the manufacturing sector as a whole, but is underpinned by a growth mindset of the leaders of manufacturing firms who invest in the latest technology to remain competitive. “The latest figures show that the majority of firms (52%) are looking to increase capital investment in the next six months – and anything that can be done to provide support to a sector which is vital for both domestic security and supply can only be a good thing,” he added. “Previous Barometer surveys have repeatedly highlighted that the number one request for support is a government-backed manufacturing scheme to recognise the industry and help drive this forward. “It would be a good start to recognise the investments being made and treat these firms as advanced manufacturers. Support from government could help in terms of changing the mindset towards the industry, supporting attraction of staff into the sector and driving further economic growth through increased confidence in UK manufacturing.” To read more and view the full report from April’s survey, please visit: https://www. swmas.co.uk/knowledge/ national-2022-q4 Q SWMAS www.swmas.co.uk 73% of UK manufacturers predict an increase in sales turnover by Autumn 2023 – SWMAS Barometer
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