1st MTA offers Breuning IRCO automation

Under an exclusive partnership agreement, 1st Machine Tool Accessories (1st MTA) is introducing the UK and Irish markets to the extensive range of bar feeders, load/unload systems and custom solutions manufactured by German automation specialist Breuning IRCO. The equipment is suitable for automating CNC sliding-head and fixed-head turning centres, including multi-tasking lathes, as well as mill-turn machining centres, rotary transfer machines and special purpose machine tools.

The strategic collaboration introduces a new era of standard and tailor-made automation solutions for CNC machine tools, including short and long bar feeders, workpiece handling systems and hybrid automation arrangements, helping manufacturers to enhance productivity, efficiency and profitability. As a result of the new partnership, 1st MTA is able to provide users with local expertise and consultation, as well as installation services and ongoing after-sales support.

Modular product design allows for fully bespoke solutions that fit individual customer requirements. Notable is the advanced vibration damping built into the barfeeds, which improves the reliability of feed and positioning, as well as machining stability. This factor is especially important when turning long or heavy bars, or indeed any bar at high speed.

The accurate alignment of stock with the machine tool and precise synchronisation of barfeed and machine ensures smooth operation, efficient production and process control. Stock feeding is consistent, resulting in high-quality components, few machining errors, and minimal scrap and material wastage. Added benefits include longer-lasting tools that save cost, and the absence of vibration to extend the machine’s operational life.

The barfeeds can handle a wide range of material sizes from 3 to 104 mm in diameter, and up to 6 m in length (optionally 10 m). More information www.1mta.com

Mayor visits A&M EDM

Precision engineering company A&M EDM welcomed Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, to commission a new CNC machining centre funded by a UK Government grant to accelerate growth at manufacturing SMEs. The investment in a three-axis Hurco machining centre increases A&M’s capabilities to produce complex Inconel parts for aerospace customers. From a two man start-up in 2002, the company has grown to a current workforce of 84 and sales over £8m. Since 2014, A&M EDM has trained 23 apprentices, with eight apprentices currently on the books.

More information www.amedm.co.uk

Group Rhodes expansion

Group Rhodes, a manufacturer of solutions for the metal-forming, composites and material handling sectors, has marked its 200th anniversary by revealing a 2323 m² facility expansion adjacent to its production facility in Wakefield. The new area will allow the group to enhance its operations with new spares and storage space, enabling it to be more responsive to customer requirements. The news comes just weeks after Group Rhodes announced it had appointed 16 new employees across its Rhodes Interform, BJD Crushers and Craven Fawcett businesses.

More information www.grouprhodes.co.uk

World tour for Igus recycled bicycle

The starting signal has been fired: the ‘Igus:bike’ is now on a world tour. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of polymer product specialist Igus, the bright orange bicycle made from recycled plastic will travel the globe for a whole year. On display in 16 countries, the aim is to familiarise industry, media and consumers with a new form of urban mobility that combines fun with the sustainable circular economy of plastics. The urban bike does not rust, needs no oil and is virtually maintenance-free. Igus:bike began its journey from the company’s Cologne factory in Germany.

More information www.igus.eu/blog

Unlocking cryogenic material behaviour

The National Composites Centre (NCC) has demonstrated the use of a novel cryostat to screen a wide selection of materials at cryogenic temperatures. The low-cost process highlights the best candidates for detailed material testing using conventional methods.

Multiple cryostats are now available, including microcrack fracture toughness and shear fixtures, with others under development, such as impact. The new 3D-printed cryostat provides the capability to screen cryogenic material properties quickly, while offering insight into failure mechanisms.

More information www.nccuk.com