Production Engineering Solutions Magazine February 2024

PES Media Production Engineering Solutions ukmfgnews February 2024 pesmedia.com Amada showcases its latest Industry 4.0 developments Pages 28-29 Production over power

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www.pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions February 2024 3 As I write this comment, I’m reliably informed that MACH 2024 is precisely 88 days, 22 hours, 49 minutes and 32 seconds away. By the time you see this, it’ll be considerably less than that! That may seem a long time, but for us humble magazine editors who are always working in advance, the call for editorial content starts much earlier. In fact I’ve already put a video out on LinkedIn (https://bit.ly/41YSTwp) and a raft of email communications aimed at our readers and advertisers is underway. MACH has its historic roots firmly embedded in UK manufacturing folklore. The first incarnation of the event, the International Engineering & Machinery Exhibition, took place at Olympia in 1912. The duration of that show was more than three weeks. It ran from 4-26 October. Imagine putting the hotel bill for that in on expenses! Since time began, PES has traditionally run three MACH themed issues and 2024 will be no different. We have March, Mid-March and the main show issue in April. The deadlines for these issues, for both advertising and editorial are listed below: March: 2nd February d Mid-March: 23rd February d April: 15th March I suspect by the time you read this, the March issue will be done and dusted, but there plenty of opportunities to get your editorial message across in the Mid-March and April issues. The April edition will have extra distribution at the show so there’s additional exposure there also. So, all you have to do is send me your MACH related press releases as soon as possible please. Don’t worry about wordcount too much – we can take care of that – but be sure to include a high-resolution image or two to accompany the text. And it’s also absolutely fine to send in multiple press releases if you want to address specific product ranges. Above all, the press release(s) should tell prospective MACH visitors what they can expect to see on your stand at the show so it’s a great opportunity to shout about all that’s great and good regarding your products and services. The markets remain somewhat turbulent, but MACH never fails to galvanise the industry and generate business so make sure you don’t miss out on getting your editorial message across in PES. Watch those editorial deadlines – they’ll be on us before we know it! Please send your press releases to: newsdesk@pesmag.co.uk and we’ll do the rest. Looking forward to seeing you all at the NEC in Birmingham from 15-19 April. Dave Tudor Editorial Director Sheetmetal processing specialist Amada UK held a winter open house in December. Ed Hill visited the company’s Technology Centre in Kidderminster to see the progress of its latest hi-tech machinery. See pages 28-29 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 2024 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 333 ISSN 1460-3926 EVENTS April 2024 MACH 2024 NEC, Birmingham, UK 15-19 April 2024 April 2024 CONTROL 2024 Stuttgart, Germany 23-26 April 2024 June 2024 SUBCON NEC, Birmingham, UK 5-6 June 2024 September 2024 UK Metals Expo NEC, Birmingham, UK 11-12 September 2024 June 2024 TCT 3SIXTY NEC, Birmingham, UK 5-6 June 2024 July 2024 Farnborough International Airshow Farnborough, UK 22-26 July 2024 5 Historic billion pound deal for Airbus and Rolls-Royce Hurco appoints additional sales engineer in the Midlands NEWS MACHINING 14 Constructing a pathway to modern manufacturing Locked-in machining performance TURNING 18 In-house milling and turning enables subcontracting for medical manufacturer Taking turning to the next level TOOLING 20 Ceratizit on track for record breaking year Fast turnaround projects require rapid solutions GRINDING & SURFACE FINISHING TECHNOLOGY 23 Grinding performance with no compromises Discs with precise results PROFILING & ADVANCED SHEETMETAL TECHNOLOGY 27 Investment in Lantek Expert and Lantek iQuoting pays dividends Production over power SOFTWARE IN MANUFACTURING 33 Evolving business future with PSL Datatrack Modern methods fulfilled with modular ERP 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

pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions February 2024 5 NEWS COMPANY FINDER Airbus 5 Amada UK 28 Brandauer 11 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 10, 20 Delapena 26 DF Precision 23 Easyfairs 8 Engineering Technology Group 18 Hurco Europe 5 In-Comm 10 Industrial Tooling Corporation 22 Kingsbury 18 Lantek 27 Make UK 8 Mapal 12 MIE Solutions 34 Mills CNC 10 NCMT 6 PSL Datatrack 33 Rainford Precision 7 Renishaw 6 Rolls-Royce 5 Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 8 Tritone Technologies 6 Trumpf 30 Tyrolit 25 XYZ Machine Tools 17 Yamazaki Mazak 14 EDITORIAL ADVERTISING Advanced Grinding Solutions 25 Amada 32 Axe & Status 30 Ceratizit UK & Ireland 36 Cranden Diamond 23 Delapena 24 DF Precision 26 Filtration Service Engineering 11 Haas 7 Heidenhain 15 Horn Cutting Tools 16 Kerf Developments 27 Kyocera SGS 22 Lantek 31 Micron Workholding 21 MIE Solutions 33 Mills CNC 9, 13 Mitutoyo 12 MTA/MACH 2024 4 Muffett Engineering Solutions 14 PSL Datatrack 34 Swissmatic 19 Sykes Machines 6 XYZ Machine Tools 2 NEWS Sourcing a Subcontractor just got easier Airbus is to provide 220 aircraft to Turkish Airlines in a new deal worth billions of pounds to the UK. The deal includes 150 A321 aircraft and 70 A350 family aircraft, the engines for which will be provided by Rolls-Royce. The agreement announced by the companies in Istanbul will support thousands of highly-skilled jobs across the UK, helping to boost exports and grow the economy. This latest order will take Turkish Airlines’ total order book for Airbus aircraft to 504, of which 212 are already delivered. A significant portion of the manufacturing process for the new aircraft is expected to take place in the UK. All the wings will be designed in Filton, Bristol and assembled in North Wales, supporting hundreds of manufacturing jobs in the UK aerospace supply chain. The new A350 aircraft will also be exclusively powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, which are assembled and tested in Derby, and will deliver 25% lower CO2 emissions compared to previous generation aircraft. In 2022 the UK aerospace industry contributed £10.9bn to the UK economy, exported around 70% of its domestic output and directly employed 108,000 high-skilled people, 90% of which are outside London and the South East. It is also a leading sector for high value apprenticeships, with 5,200 currently employed in the industry. “This order for the latest generation aircraft is a demonstration of the bold vision by Turkish Airlines. The A350-900, A350-1000, A350F and A321 will all be flagship aircraft in their respective category and efficiency drivers to shape the airline’s future and sustainable expansion, with more range, less fuel, noise and emissions and best cabin in class,” commented Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus’ commercial aircraft business. Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic said: “The announcement marks an exciting and truly historic day for Rolls-Royce. It is proof that the actions we are taking to transform RollsRoyce into a high performing and competitive company underpinned by profitable growth are working. “The Trent XWB is the perfect engine platform to support Turkish Airlines as it continues to grow. This order will make it the largest Trent XWB operator in the world, and I would like to thank them for putting their trust in Rolls-Royce.” Q Airbus www.airbus.com Q Rolls-Royce www.rolls-royce.com Historic billion pound deal for Airbus and Rolls-Royce High Wycombe-based machine tool company, Hurco Europe, has appointed Joshua Adams to cover the postcodes DE, LL, LE, MK, PE, NN, ST, SY, TF and WS. This effectively splits the Midlands sales region for Hurco into two. Mr Adams will report to Colin Brice, long established as the face of Hurco in the Midlands, who will now focus on the remaining postcodes in the region – B, CV, DY, WR and WV. Hurco has a large customer base in the Midlands among subcontract engineering firms, press tool and mould makers, and toolrooms and prototype shops within larger manufacturing companies. The additional appointment ensures that new and existing customers will receive the attention and support they deserve. Mr Adams brings with him a wealth of relevant experience. Having completed his engineering qualifications at South Staffordshire College, he operated CNC mills and lathes before moving into sales of tooling and machine tools. Mr Brice commented: “It is exciting to be working with Josh. He has the experience and enthusiasm to help support the continued growth of Hurco sales in the Midlands.” Q Hurco Europe www.hurco.co.uk Hurco’s new sales engineer Joshua Adams Hurco appoints additional sales engineer in the Midlands Scan here for more Hurco Europe articles

6 February 2024 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS www.sykesmachines.com WE RE-MANUFACTURE W.E SYKES GEAR MACHINES! We have some excellent testimonials from customers We also have spare capacity to re-manufacture other makes of Gear Cutting machines including: Lorenz, Liebherr, Pfauter, Gleason, Hurth, WMW and Matrix Thread Grinders We offer a generous part exchange on machines W.E SYKES GB LTD contact: ++ 44 (0) 7860 345 343 chan@farrellengineering.com NCMT has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Tritone Technologies, a global leader in additive manufacturing (AM) technology. Specialising in metal and ceramic applications, Tritone is expanding its presence in the UK and Ireland through this partnership, which enables NCMT to add AM solutions to its conventional machining equipment portfolio. Jonathan Smart, NCMT’s managing director said: “We are excited to start our partnership with Tritone Technologies, seeing them as the owners of a groundbreaking technology poised to influence the AM market in the coming years. “As a company renowned for its commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology, NCMT regards this strategic move as positioning it at the forefront of industrial advancement. We are now entering the AM sector, elevating our capabilities to meet the evolving demands of modern industry.” He continued: “The integration of Tritone’s advanced MoldJet technology not only diversifies our company’s portfolio but also solidifies our position as a leader in shaping the future of precision engineering and manufacturing”. Tritone has two AM systems in the market, the Dominant and the Dim. The systems are based on Tritone’s MoldJet technology, an innovative, ‘powder-free’ additive manufacturing AM system that enables production of high-quality metal and ceramic components at industrial speed. Designed for producing a large quantity of high-density parts of complex geometry, MoldJet allows quick and easy changeover between a wide variety of metals and ceramics for parallel manufacturing of parts of various sizes and shapes for diverse applications. Omer Sagi, VP products and business development at Tritone commented: “We are delighted to join forces with NCMT in a strategic partnership, as it emphasises Tritone’s commitment to advancing AM on a global scale. “The decision by NCMT to embrace Tritone’s MoldJet technology as their gateway into the AM market is a testament to the innovation and transformative capabilities of our technology. Together, we eagerly anticipate pushing the boundaries of manufacturing excellence and shaping the future of industrial production.” Q NCMT www.ncmt.co.uk Q Tritone Technologies www.tritoneAM.com NCMT signs exclusive distribution agreement with metal 3D manufacturing company Renishaw, which was founded in 1973 by Sir David McMurtry and John Deer, hosted a variety of events and activities throughout 2023 at subsidiaries around the world to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The company welcomed employees and their relatives to Gloucestershire and South Wales open days held at its New Mills and Miskin sites respectively. The events provided an opportunity for guests to experience Renishaw’s world-class facilities and view its products in action, with demonstrations conducted by experts across various divisions. From STEM activities for younger audiences, to sporting challenges run by partner organisations Cardiff Rugby and Forest Green Rovers FC, the open days showcased the innovation and community spirit that has defined Renishaw for five decades. Renishaw’s Edinburgh research office also celebrated the anniversary with its own office band, which played hit songs from 1973 including Elton John, Stealers Wheel and Stevie Wonder. “This year we’ve celebrated the achievements of our co-founders, plus past and present employees, who have contributed significantly to global advances in precision manufacturing,” said Will Lee, Renishaw CEO. “While this landmark year has now ended, we’re looking forward with confidence to another half-century of innovation and sustainable growth.” In Germany, Renishaw GmbH and guests from Renishaw AG (Switzerland) hosted a 1970s-themed summer festival, while in Asia, Will Lee joined Andy Buttrey, Renishaw’s APAC president, to participate in festivities at some of the region’s subsidiaries. In Rajkot, India, an evening seminar for customers showcased Renishaw’s products for smart manufacturing, including live demonstrations and a roundtable discussion, while in Italy, a similar event was held at the Turin Automobile Museum. As part of the celebrations and to share its success with local communities, Renishaw also donated £150,000 to charities and not-for-profit organisations located in the countries it has operations. Renishaw’s first product, the touch-trigger probe, was invented by Sir David McMurtry to solve a specific inspection requirement for the Olympus engines used in Concorde. This product led to a revolution in 3D coordinate measurement, enabling the accurate measurement of machined components and finished assemblies. The company has now grown from a small enterprise located in the homes and garages of its co-founders to a multinational corporation with operations in 36 countries. Today, Renishaw is listed on the London Stock Exchange’s FTSE 250 index, employing over 5,000 people, including 3,400 staff at its sites in the UK. Q Renishaw www.renishaw.com Renishaw’s open day at New Mills, Gloucestershire Renishaw celebrates 50 years with global events Scan here for more Renishaw articles Scan here for more NCMT articles

pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions February 2024 7 NEWS Haas Automation | 01603 760539 | sales@haas.co.uk Auto Parts Loaders | Plug & Play Robots | Integrated Pallet Pools NEW www.haas.co.uk MADE IN USA The world’s best selling 5-axis for a reason. NEWS Cheshire-based Micro-machining solutions specialist Rainford Precision has invested in a Keyence digital microscope to provide a complete tool investigation and consultancy service for its customers in the UK and Ireland. Rainford offers a portfolio of products that include Kern ultraprecision machining centres, Finecut micro waterjet cutting machines and a wide range of cutting tools from the likes of Union Tool Japan and Louis Bélet Switzerland. With extensive ranges of drills, end mills, reamers, thread mills and complementary tools, from universally standard dimensions down to the micro range, it is here that Rainford has found its niche. With micro range products, the new Keyence VHX-970FN digital microscope will enable Rainford to assist its customers in diagnosing and maximising the performance of micro and precision cutting tools. Commenting on the new investment, Rainford Precision managing director, Miles Evans said: “When you are servicing customers with tools below 0.2mm in diameter, diagnosing and optimising tool life and performance is a challenge. The Keyence system will enable us to provide a unique service to our customers within the cutting tool marketplace.” With a magnification range from 100 to 1,000, Rainford’s experts can analyse standard and micro-tools then investigate and resolve the barriers to optimum performance. Cutting tools smaller than 0.5mm in diameter can naturally pose issues when investigating performance and tool life issues. With the Keyence VHX-970FN, Rainford can provide an aftersales service that is aimed at delivering improved tool life, machining performance, productivity and consistency. By investigating the wear characteristics of customers’ tools and armed with the cutting data, the experts at Rainford can diagnose issues from a multitude of factors. For example, if the cutting speeds, feeds and machining parameters are impacting performance, Rainford will be able to diagnose this from investigations with the Keyence microscope. Likewise, concentricity, toolholding and the associated concerns of rigidity, balance and stability could also be diagnosed and potentially rectified through Rainford’s service and product portfolio. This service is available for all customers. For existing clients, it will provide a comprehensive feedback loop with full reporting and recommendations to maximise the machining performance of tools purchased through Rainford. Additionally, all potential customers who may be experiencing issues with their current cutting tools, whoever the manufacturer may be, and want to investigate potential solutions, will be able to send their tools to Rainford. Q Rainford Precision www.rainfordprecision.com Cheshire experts offer complete tool investigation service

8 February 2024 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS The UK manufacturing industry is viewing the country as a more competitive place to locate its activities compared to 12 months ago, with an increasing number of businesses believing they are moving ahead of their European rivals. However, the sector remains wary of the huge threat to their competitiveness posed by the US, India and China. The findings come from a major survey of over 200 senior manufacturing executives published by Make UK and PwC in January. The survey shows that after a very difficult few years through the pandemic and the shock to energy prices, there are optimistic signs with companies more bullish about the prospects for manufacturing in 2024. As a result, most companies are seeing opportunities outweighing the risks to their businesses. Manufacturers are backing this belief with investment in new products, expansion into new markets and accelerating use of new digital technologies to improve their businesses. However, the survey also shows that manufacturers are wary of the prospects for both the UK and global economies, while significant challenges remain in the faces of increased energy and employment costs, as well as access to domestic skills. Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, said: “The last few years have been a rollercoaster of emotions for manufacturers, yet they have more than demonstrated their resilience time after time. “We are now seeing some hope that conditions may be improving, amid a more supportive and stable policy environment, but this must be cemented within a long-term industrial strategy. While undoubted challenges remain, the accelerating use of digital technologies, our strength in innovation and expansion into new markets sets the scene for manufacturing to be at the heart of efforts to boost growth.” According to the survey, more than half of companies see the UK as a more competitive place to manufacture. This compares to just under a third in the same survey a year ago following the political chaos of 2022. Almost a third of companies believe the UK is increasing its competitiveness against Germany and France, while more than a quarter believe the UK is moving ahead of Spain and Italy. These figures are greater than those who see the UK’s competitiveness decreasing against EU rivals. By contrast, the share of companies who believe the UK is losing competitiveness against the US, India and China dwarfs those who believe the UK is gaining. Q Make UK www.makeuk.org Increased optimism for 2024 Exhibition organiser Easyfairs has announced the acquisition of European Trade & Exhibition Services, organiser of Southern Manufacturing & Electronics. This latest acquisition bolsters Easyfairs’ extensive engineering and manufacturing portfolio that incorporates Advanced Engineering as well as many other brands across Europe. Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is in its 26th edition, having built up an impressive reputation as a key event for the manufacturing technology sector in the UK. Taking place this year from 6-8 February at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, it attracts over 460 exhibitors (representing 600 companies) 9,000 attendees and has a position as the only large-scale industrial engineering event in the South of England. Easyfairs has a strong track record of delivering 30 industrial events across nine countries, including Advanced Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, All About Automation and others. Matt Benyon, group CEO of Easyfairs, commented: “Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is a perfect strategic fit for our growing portfolio, and as part of an established stable of industry-leading events, the event’s future development and its loyal exhibitor and visitor base that has been built up over the last 30 years will be in very safe hands.” Southern Manufacturing & Electronics has built up over the years as a family business, led by founders Phil Valentine and Jo Valentine and with a family team working with them. Alison Willis, managing director of Easyfairs UK commented: “Phil and Jo will remain closely involved in the event as consultants, and we very much look forward to working with them and the rest of the family on the continuing growth and success of the event.” Mr Valentine added: “As a family business, founded exactly 30 years ago, we were always going to be cautious to choose the right company to take the event forward as and when we were in a position to sell. We have built a strong relationship with Matt and the team at Easyfairs over many years; we are therefore confident that there is a close synergy with the values of our businesses, despite the difference of scale, and it gives me great confidence and pleasure that Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is in the right hands for the future.” Easyfairs will resume full operational running of the event from the end of February 2024. Q Easyfairs www.easyfairs.com Q Southern Manufacturing & Electronics www.industrysouth.co.uk Easyfairs acquires Southern Manufacturing Scan here for more Make UK articles

New DN Solutions’DVF 4000 simultaneous 5-axis machining centres. Admire. Aspire. Acquire. 3. The Commercial Angle: Easier to Acquire. • Low deposit* • 3 month payment holiday* • Attractive terms (favourable monthly repayments)* * (Subject to status) For those component manufacturers still ‘umming and ahhing’ about investing in a new 5-axis machining centre, we now believe we can put any concerns and anxieties you may have to bed. Once and for all. If you’ve not invested in a 5-axis machine before, or if you’re looking to increase your 5-axis machining capabilities further, our new DVF 4000 machines, from a technical, commercial and operational perspective, have all the angles covered. DVF 4000 5-axis machines: first choice if you’re new to the technology, and first choice if you’re not. To find out more about our new DVF 4000 machining centres call us on 01926 736736 or visit www.millscnc.co.uk Mills CNC: Like No-one Else! 1. The Technical Angle: Lots to Admire. • Compact machine • Direct-coupled, high-torque spindle (18.5kW/12,000rpm) •Thermal compensation • Fanuc iPlus control with advanced, easy-to-use iHMI 2. The Operational Angle: Be Inspired. • Fast part processing • Improved flexibility and process efficiencies • Immediate delivery

10 February 2024 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS Having won world, Olympic and European champion titles, Katie Archibald is a track cyclist with an impressive number of achievements behind her. Competing worldwide for Team GB, she rides on the roads and in the velodromes where she is a force to be reckoned with for anyone racing against her. Proudly sponsored by Ceratizit, Ms Archibald rides a top of the range Hope Technology bike, which was manufactured in the Hope Technology factory using Ceratizit cutting tools. She is now pedalling toward Paris 2024 where she is set to compete in three separate events. In what she explained will be her biggest challenge to date, Ms Archibald hopes to add more Olympic gold medals to her collection at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. In celebration of her recently accomplishing a 20th European champion title, she was invited to Ceratizit’s Technical Centre where she was presented with a trophy to mark this impressive milestone. Ms Archibald was awarded the trophy by Stephen Pennington, projects application engineer at Ceratizit UK and Ireland and technical manager Shaun Thornton. Mr Pennington, having worked on this project from the start, used Open Mind hyperMILL CAD/CAM software to design the trophy, which he then produced from aluminium on an XYZ UMC-5X machine using Ceratizit tooling. Primarily using zero-point and MNG workholding, the trophy was designed and manufactured as two separate components, which were then assembled. A custom riser plate extension was designed and manufactured in Sheffield as the fixture height needed to be increased by 50mm to prevent a machine collision. Once this was completed, a ZSG-4 centric clamping vice with 3mm grip jaws was used to clamp the rough material stock securely during Op 1. During this operation, toleranced pockets and holes were machined to fit clamping plugs and dowels on the underside of the trophy, allowing for both components to be fastened directly to the MNG riser plate for Op 2. The trophy was then polished up ready to present to the cycling champion. Shaun Thornton said: “It was wonderful welcoming Katie to the Tech Centre to celebrate her amazing achievements to date. Everything she has accomplished so far is unbelievable, and it’s great knowing that Ceratizit has played a part in manufacturing her bike and supporting her professional career.” Q Ceratizit UK & Ireland www.ceratizit.com (L-R) Stephen Pennington, application engineer; Katie Archibald and Shaun Thornton, technical manager Top cyclist Katie Archibald pedals to victory with Ceratizit cutting tools Skills provider In-Comm Training celebrated a record year in 2023 after it completed several strategic projects and saw demand for engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships and upskilling courses soar. The company, which operates two state-of-the-art technical academies in Aldridge and Telford, has seen revenue increase by 25% over the last 12 months. This was driven by the firm’s largest ever cohort intake (nearly 200 apprentices) and a significant rise in the number of companies looking to take advantage of modular courses for managers navigating quality accreditations and health and safety compliance. It marked an exciting year for the business, including the £3m opening of its Telford Technical Academy at the start of the year and JLR becoming the first commercial client for the Precision Tooling Academy in Aldridge. Gareth Jones, managing director at In-Comm Training, commented: “Last year we moved into a purpose-built site in Telford and secured a £429,000 funding package from the West Midlands Combined Authority. “Our employer-led approach to training is really starting to pay off, with revenues increasing by 25% and new companies, including VA Technology, Ansaldo NES, Altrad Babcock, Travis Perkins and 2 Sisters Food Products, deciding to make the most of our training offering. “This is the start of our new five-year business strategy. There are exciting changes, partnerships and some new investments to announce, all geared towards supporting industry for today’s sustainability and tomorrow’s growth.” The brother and sister owner management team of In-Comm, Bekki Phillips and Mr Jones, is setting sights on further growth, with learner numbers predicted to rise to 2,300. They also plan to take executive director roles and will look to bring in a new managing director to oversee day-to-day operations to help it fulfil the company’s growth. Bekki Phillips, In-Comm chief operating officer explained: “There are so many opportunities out there for InComm to partner with industry to bridge the competency gap and give companies the skills they need to be successful. This will mean a change to the operational structure to enable us to maximise our potential through our growing number of collaborative partnerships. “That’s why we’ll be looking for people who are passionate about skills and engineering, but the key will be having the operational and delivery excellence that ensures we continue to improve our offer.” Q In-Comm www.in-comm.co.uk In-Comm Training celebrates record year Scan here for more Ceratizit UK & Ireland articles Scan here for more In-Comm articles Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of DN Solutions’ and Zayer machine tools in the UK and Ireland, and a leading supplier of advanced automation systems to component manufacturers, had a successful year in 2023. The company, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, announced that combined sales revenues from all its operations over the last 12 months surpassed £78m for the first time in its history. The company’s strong sales performance can be explained partly by the depth and breadth of its DN Solutions’ machine tool range, which saw the introduction of a number of new series and models over the year. The launch of the new DNT series of 8-10 inch chuck lathes, which included models with Y-axes, sub-spindles and driven tooling capabilities, was a case in point, as was the introduction of the new DVF 4000, the company’s latest addition to its DVFrange of simultaneous 5-axis machining centres. While new models played their part, it was high demand for machines in the bestselling Lynx and Puma lathe series, its DNM vertical machining centre ranges, and its TT and SMX multi-tasking mill-turn machines that had the biggest impact on sales. The increase in economic activity in sectors impacted by the pandemic (oil and gas, power generation and automotive) helped drive Mills CNC achieves new sales record

pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions February 2024 11 NEWS Tel: +44 (0) 1562 602333 Email: sales@fse.co.uk Web: www.fse.co.uk Next generation colour LED electronic airflow indicator which instantly shows if the industrial ventilation is controlling airborne contaminants in accordance with HSG258. COSHH2022 Regulation 8 - Use of control measures for every Employer & Employee to be able to identify defect on the LEV with the use of a Swift Airflow Indicator. If the fan fails, duct gets damaged, or a blockage reduces the duct airflow, the indicator will clearly show you. Our SWIFT / LEV Indicator is highly visible, with a continuously moving display to indicate either adequate or insufficient airflow. NEWS Rowan Crozier, CEO of metal pressing, stamping and tooling specialist Brandauer, has been awarded an MBE for services to manufacturing and enterprise. The engineer has helped steer the Birmingham company through the pandemic and towards a recordbreaking £9.3m year, sending millions of precision components to more than 26 countries every week. He is also a passionate ambassador for developing the industry professionals of the future, revolutionising the firm’s apprenticeship scheme, and working with In-Comm Training to launch the UK’s first Precision Toolmaking Academy in late 2022. “I am genuinely shocked to receive this award; you just never expect to be an MBE growing up and certainly not for, in my opinion, just doing my job,” commented Mr Crozier, who is also an export champion for the Department for International Trade. “This is an accolade for my family and my teams at Brandauer and Support Staffordshire, who have worked so hard to support me and help us emerge from the pandemic in a stronger position than the one we entered. Importantly, both organisations have strong platforms from which to maximise future opportunities.” He continued: “It is especially refreshing for manufacturing to get the national recognition it deserves. Industry is so important to the economic success of the UK and hopefully my MBE shows our engineers of the future and their parents that you can achieve the highest personal honour by following a passion for Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM).” In addition to his manufacturing role, Mr Crozier has been a trustee for Support Staffordshire since 2018, an organisation that provides support to over 1,000 other charities and community groups operating in Staffordshire; groups that in turn provide a wide variety of essential Birmingham engineer seals royal approval with MBE sales of large-capacity machines with big and powerful Puma lathes, NHP and NHM horizontal machining centres and DBC horizontal borers all witnessing an increase in demand. Mills also significantly grew its automation business in 2023, with sales of its SYNERGi automated manufacturing cells hitting new heights. Tony Dale, Mills CNC CEO, commented: “2023 was a real watershed for the company. We introduced new models into the market; we began selling Zayer machines to UK and Irish customers; and our automation and turnkey solutions’ business went from strength to strength. “These, combined with higher demand for our more established DN Solutions machine tools, resulted in us achieving our best sales performance in our 50year history and I would like to thank all our customers for their continued support this year.” To continue its strong sales trajectory, Mills is exhibiting at the MACH show in April where a total of 16 machines (including two automation cells) will be showcased from the largest stand at the event. Q Mills CNC www.millscnc.co.uk Rowan Crozier Scan here for more Mills CNC articles

12 February 2024 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com NEWS The small portable surface roughness tester with a big discount. Valid while stocks last! › The portable instrument allows for easy and accurate surface roughness measurement. › Made for on-site use, the SJ-210 has a sturdy design perfect for industrial environments. › EN ISO conform stylus radius of 5 μm, measuring force of 4 mN and skid radius of 40 mm. › The colour LCD provides excellent readability and includes a backlight for mproved visibility. › Easy and intuitive menu navigation. › Using coloured tolerance judgment, provides users with a quick but accurate analysis. › The SJ-210 comes in two different language sets with a total support of 21 languages. Scan here for further information or visit www.mitutoyo.co.uk/sj210 SJ-210 special offer – SAVE 30%! Don’t miss out – arrange your on-site demonstration today. NEWS After almost five decades at the helm of the Mapal Group, Dr Dieter Kress sadly passed away on 27th December 2023 at the age of 81 after a long illness. Dr Kress shaped the once small company into an international group. He retired from active management in 2018 but continued to take a lively interest in the company’s developments: “Mapal is my baby and that’s why I will never let it out of my sight completely,” he once said. The entire workforce joins the Kress family in mourning at this sad time. Dr Kress joined Mapal Dr. Kress KG in 1969 after graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering and business administration. His father, Dr Georg Kress, founded the company in 1950. While working at the company, Dr Kress completed his doctorate on the subject of reaming, which was the foundation for Mapal’s ongoing success – developing special, high-performance tools that took standard reamer products to the next level and beyond. With vision and personal commitment, Dr Kress managed the company for 49 years as president. The product portfolio was continuously expanded under his leadership and Mapal established itself in the marketplace as a full-range supplier. Tools for drilling, countersinking, milling, hard turning and boring were added to the reaming range. Chucks and devices for setting, measuring and dispensing as well as numerous toolrelated services further expanded the portfolio. In addition, company acquisitions and foundations were responsible for Mapal’s meteoric growth. For Dr Kress, it was important to respect and preserve the respective cultures of the acquired companies. In his 49 years at the helm, he transformed a regionally active manufacturer of taps into an international, broadly positioned company group. Today, Mapal is represented in 44 countries and employs around 5,000 people worldwide, including 1,700 at the headquarters in Aalen. In 2018, Dr Kress handed over responsibility to his son Dr Jochen Kress, who is now the third generation to run the precision tool company. The training of young people was a subject close to Dr Kress’ heart and he invested heavily in ensuring the right infrastructure was in place to train and nurture staff at Mapal to realise their true potential. Today, there are as many as 300 apprentices at Mapal worldwide, with around 130 learning different professions at Mapal in Aalen – from cutting machine operators to warehouse logistics and IT specialists. Dr Kress also supported research and education at Aalen University. He was active on various committees, initiatives and associations, including as chairman of the VDMA Precision Tools Association and as a founding member of the P.E.G.A.S.U.S. association, which supports company founders. He received numerous awards for his services, including the Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Golden Staufer Medal of the State of Baden-Württemberg. He was also one of the first recipients of the German Mechanical Engineering Prize. In recognition of his achievements, Aalen University appointed him Honorary Senator. Q Mapal www.mapal.com Mapal Group mourns the passing of Dr Dieter Kress Dr Dieter Kress, former president of Mapal Dr. Kress KG, passed away in December 2023 services to local residents. The group offers advice and guidance to other charities on vital matters such as funding, training, new policies, and volunteer recruitment. He shares his experience and knowledge with the board and has helped support it towards a new strategy that will ensure the charity’s future sustainability. Organised fundraising events, such as horse racing days have also improved links between businesses and the third sector in the area, generating more than £20,000 of vital funding for Support Staffordshire in the process. Q Brandauer www.brandauer.co.uk Scan here for more Mapal articles Scan here for more Brandauer articles

Doing the right things at the right time for the right reasons is what Mills CNC is all about. And, helps explains why we’ve recently become the exclusive distributor of Zayer bed, travelling-column and gantry-type horizontal milling machines in the UK and Ireland. Used extensively throughout Europe and the rest of the world by large component and mould tool manufacturers, Zayer machines are renowned for their power, precision, speed and reliability. They improve, and complement, our already impressive DN Solutions’machine tool portfolio perfectly, and enable us to provide customers with the most appropriate and effective machining solution…whatever the application. With business returning to pre-pandemic levels across many sectors, and with the need to improve productivity and process efficiency levels high on all manufacturers’agendas, we’ve now made selecting the right large-capacity machine tool in the future, much simpler and far more straightforward. Zayer machine tools from Mills CNC: You’re welcome! Call us now on 01926 736736or visit www.millscnc.co.ukfor details. Mills CNC: Like No-one Else! Zayer large-capacity bed, travelling-column and gantry-type horizontal milling machines: now available from Mills CNC. We’ve expanded our range and narrowed down your choice!

14 February 2024 Production Engineering Solutions pesmedia.com MACHINING LEADING UK SUPPLIER OF GEARS TO THE AEROSPACE, OFF-HIGHWAY, OIL & GAS AND MEDICAL INDUSTRIES 01892 542111 sales@muffett.co.uk www.muffett.co.uk FM 23933 Judging by the difficulty I had finding a parking space at Mazak’s European Technology Centre (ETC) in Worcester on the second day of its open house in December, the event was obviously well attended. In fact, according to the company the ‘Building For Your Future’ open house welcomed more than 700 visitors over its four days, with a strong proportion of new customers making their first visit to Mazak. Key to its success was the ability for visitors to see Mazak’s latest CNC machines, controls and automation solutions in the hall of its European Technology Centre, talk to applications engineers about their specific machining challenges, and see machines being built on the adjacent factory floor with tours led by Mazak apprentices. Customers were also able to get advice regarding suitable finance packages from Mazak’s preferred funding partner Finance for Industry, including creative options such as hire purchase agreements, payment holidays and low start finance leases. Mazak exhibited 18 different machines, including new UKdesigned and built vertical machining centres (VCEs and VCNs) through to 5-axis machines, models from its flagship Integrex multi-tasking range, turning centres and laser cutting machines. In addition, Mazak highlighted its range of automation options and service and support solutions, including the Mazak iCONNECT package. Alan Mucklow, managing director UK and Ireland sales and service division at Yamazaki Mazak, explained what ‘Building For Your Future’ represented. “Demonstrating that our own investments in this facility have enabled us to enhance our manufacturing, shorten lead-times, and develop our own new products further, shows how investment in the products, people and services you offer is critical to any manufacturing company’s success,” he says. Added intelligence A related theme evident in much of the manufacturing technology on display was the increasing smartness of Mazak machines to help its customers tackle some of the persistent issues that have affected precision engineering for a number of years, specifically the lack of suitable employees available both in terms of the capacity required to meet orders, and skill levels. For some time now Mazak has been incorporating many Industry 4.0 and Smart Factory developments into its production machinery. In 2021 it introduced Mazak iCONNECT, an online suite of services available to existing Mazak customers that enables them to download manuals and software, access how-to videos, see their list of machines and their performance, order parts and more. For a subscription fee users can also access Mazak’s M2M (Machine-2-Mazak) services which enables further productivity improving functions and allows users to connect their machines directly to Mazak advisors. “Mazak iCONNECT has been very well embraced in the UK market and connectivity is clearly becoming more important globally for all our products,” Mr Mucklow comments. “The Portal enables our customers to connect to their machine assets and get more data and information from them easily, helping support the service of those machines. M2M can provide diagnostic support whether it is for servicing or advice regarding how best to maximise their applications. Both these products demonstrate the trends that we are developing in terms of advanced services for our customers.” A recent advance also available to Mazak customers registered with iCONNECT – and which it will be promoting at MACH 2024 – is its new Mazatrol DX software. This programme is able to transform customers’ manufacturing processes and production levels. By using a mixture of 3D models, artificial intelligence and digital twin technology, Mazatrol DX enables users to generate programmes, provide job quotations, issue instructions directly to the machine and also provide measurement support. This can compensate for staff skills and experience on site, reduce lead-times, harmonise machining processes, increase efficiency, ease set ups and improve machine performance. Automation options Automation was also a prominent feature at the open house, with various solutions on display for customers. “50% of our machines here at the ETC are automated with various solutions from simple tending robotics to more complex multi-pallet and hybrid systems that can handle both pallets and parts,” Mr Mucklow explains. “Both our automation and connectivity developments are a response to the challenges that all manufacturing is facing, namely labour and skills shortages. And these are also areas that our customer base has identified as issues that they need solutions for, and we have been able to provide them.” So as a machine tool developer Mazak is not only providing optimised metalcutting performance for its customers but also increasingly comprehensive answers to broader industry problems and applications. “It’s actually a way we differentiate ourselves from our competitors,” Mr Mucklow adds. “We can offer a full turnkey approach to delivering a solution, of which the machine tool is just one element. That’s also why we have strong relationships with our partners across various aspects of manufacturing so we can deliver total solutions. “Furthermore, that’s what we find our customers often require. The days of having large production engineering departments are a thing of the past and that means companies have become more reliant on Constructing a pathway to modern manufacturing ‘Building For Your Future’ was the theme of Yamazaki Mazak’s latest open house. The machine tool builder demonstrated to prospective customers how investment in its own manufacturing technology in Worcester has increased capacity, quickened product development and shortened lead-times. Ed Hill went along to find out more. PES Report Ed Hill Attendees were given a chance to tour Mazak’s manufacturing facilities in Worcester guided by the company’s apprentices Mazak’s iCONNECT and Mazatrol DX developments offer its customers increased productivity benefits Automation systems were a key theme at Building For Your Future

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pesmedia.com Production Engineering Solutions February 2024 17 MACHINING According to the RAC, 30 vans are stolen and a further 80 broken into every day in the UK. Van Guard Accessories based in Exeter aims to help van owners and operators minimise their risk of becoming a victim. Leigh Andrews, director of operations at Van Guard says: “The average theft is valued at £2,500 excluding damage to the van which can cost around £2,000 on top.” The company has been operating for more than 40 years and has been offering its Ulti Lock hooklock, which is the first Gold Standard Sold Secure hooklock for vans, for the past three years. Previously, the locks offered were manufactured in Germany and Portugal, but the price point became uncompetitive, so Van Guard designed its own more superior product, fabricating the sheetmetal parts itself on its laser cutter and subcontracting the turned and machined parts. Mr Andrews wanted to bring the subcontracted parts inhouse and started off with the machining of face plates on an XYZ 750 TMC with ProtoTRAK RMX control and 20 station carousel tool changer. Fixturing was designed so that 22 parts could fit on the machine on one pallet. Previously the face plates were countersunk manually but, as the countersinks were different depths it took three operations and 15 minutes per part. To subcontract this operation cost £1.10 per part so in-house machining was easy to justify with a cycle time of 30 seconds per plate and a payback on the machine of less than three years. Mr Andrews says: “The Ulti Lock has been a raging success, and we are making between 4,000 and 6,000 per month. Typically, each van will have two or three hooklocks, one on the rear door and two on the side door. We are preparing more fixtures so that we can introduce the machining of other parts in-house. Currently we are only using 50% of the XYZ 750 TMC’s capacity so we have plenty of machining time available for different parts and increased demand for our products. “Furthermore, with the machine’s swarf conveyor, we are able to recover more money from recycling the swarf while at the same time maintaining a clean machine and clean coolant.” Van Guard chose the XYZ 750 TMC as Mr Andrews had had experience of the machines at a previous company and because XYZ Machine Tools is local. He explains: “We were easily able to go up to the Burlescombe factory for training on the machine and ProtoTRAK, and XYZ engineers carried out additional training on site, helping us with our components. We are experienced in sheetmetal, but new to CNC machining and the graphics and ease of use of ProtoTRAK made the crossover from manual to CNC machining easier.” Additionally, the machine was delivered ex-stock and Van Guard was able to take advantage of the capital allowance tax break on 4th April 2023 just before it ended. The operator that was previously doing the countersinking can now be more productive elsewhere making a 70% labour saving. The XYZ 750 TMC operates on its own, with the only tasks required being loading and unloading the pallet fixture while the previous one is in cycle and switching the fixtures in the machine at the end of each cycle. As part of the machine tool package, Van Guard chose a three-year service package which covers routine maintenance and accidental damage. Mr Andrews adds: “The XYZ 750 TMC is the third most important machine in the workshop, and we can’t ship product without it. The response we get to support queries is almost immediate and overall, the machine is value for money and does a good job. “In three years, we have gone from a cold start to shipping over £1.5 million security products through our lock fitting network across the UK and Ireland and the XYZ 750 TMC is a key part of that success.” Q XYZ Machine Tools www.xyzmachinetools.com Locked-in machining performance Leigh Andrews in front of XYZ 750 TMC Fixture holding 22 face plates ULTI Lock hooklocks installed on a rear van door Scan here for more XYZ Machine Tools articles their manufacturing machinery and software being able to fulfil some of that role.” Anticipated upturn So, the popularity of Mazak’s open house may be an indication that despite difficult economic factors that have made investment tough for machining businesses, prospects are beginning to take a turn for the better. Certainly, demand should be high as sectors such automotive, aerospace and energy undergo major changes to meet challenges such as Net Zero. “We are very mindful of changing industry demands and we have to ensure our manufacturing technology adapts to it and in fact drives it,” Mr Mucklow says. “If you look at us as a case study here in Worcester, it demonstrates the success you can have by continuing investment. Our investment in buildings, production capability, in people, and the development of our products has enabled us to be successful as a manufacturer ourselves. “And the fact that we have had such good attendance this week is hopefully a good indicator that confidence is returning to the industry. There’s been a very positive outlook from all our visitors, with a sense of confidence returning to the market. “Also the Government’s recent announcement of a permanent extension to fully expensing capital investment against corporation tax and the extension of initiatives like Made Smarter was very welcome and demonstrated an understanding of the importance of manufacturing to the UK economy. We’re very excited about prospects in 2024.” Q Yamazaki Mazak https://www.mazakeu.co.uk Continued from page 14 One of Mazak’s VCN 700 machines at its European Technology Centre Scan here for more Yamazaki Mazak articles

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