Belgrave & Powell, a specialist engineering services group, has acquired 100% of the shares of Autotech Robotics, based in Plymouth, UK. The acquisition will form part of Belgrave & Powell’s Machine Technology Group (MTG). Established in 1989, Autotech Robotics is a provider and integrator of robotic systems across the automotive, aerospace, marine and metal-processing industries.

Paul Ward, a partner in Belgrave & Powell who will lead the company as part of the MTG, says: “Coupled with our other machine tool, engineering and automation specialists, the MTG now has sizeable scale and capability across a range of robotic and automation platforms. Our focus will be on automated cells for machine loading, vision systems, robotic welding, cutting, forming, painting and handling, initially for the metalworking industries, but followed by expansion into other sectors.”

For further information
www.autotech-robotics.com

Amada has extended its range of HFE3i intelligent press brakes by adding a 400 tonne machine in 4, 5 and 6 m lengths. Aimed at heavy-engineering sectors such as agriculture, commercial vehicle, rail, construction, mining and shipbuilding, the new HFE3i HT (High Tonnage) model can bend mild steel up to 20 mm thick.

A high-rigidity frame offers optimum performance in high-tonnage applications, while Amada’s design of the lower table guarantees parallel beam deflection. Furthermore, the strong and flexible back gauge combines payload and positioning accuracy via its five motorised axes.

The standard single Delta-X finger, which can move forward and backwards independently of the other, allows high gauging flexibility and is particularly useful when bending asymmetrical workpieces. Optionally, customers can select Delta-X on both fingers.

HFE3i HT machines feature a range of equipment designed specifically for high-tonnage applications. For instance, Digipro uses wireless technology to transmit the measured angle to the control before the machine compensates to provide a precise bend angle. At all times, operators can use a hand wheel to make manual adjustments to each axis. If required, an optional device for active angle measurement is available: the Bi-M laser can measure and correct the angle in real time.

A further benefit for customers is Amada’s Eco inverter technology, which means the machine stops using power as soon as the bend is complete. As well as saving energy, this smart hydraulic power system reduces maintenance requirements, oil consumption and noise.

The HFE3i HT can be optionally fitted with Amada SF200 sheet followers (200 kg per arm) to help improve accuracy and safety. SF200 units follow the bend speed as folding takes place.

For further information
www.amada.eu

Rolls-Royce has successfully completed the first engine run on its state-of-the-art Testbed 80, which will be the largest and smartest indoor aerospace testbed in the world after its official opening in the coming months. With an internal area of 7500 sq m, making it larger than a football pitch, the testbed conducted its first run on a Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engine at the company’s facility in Derby. The project has been under construction for almost three years and represents a £90m investment.

Chris Cholerton, president of Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace, says: “Testbed 80 will not only test engines such as the Trent XWB, but the engines and propulsion systems of the future, which will see us take another step towards decarbonisation. It’s great that the first engine test has been a success.”

For further information
www.rolls-royce.com