JWA CNC Precision is demonstrating how the right CAM technology can help manufacturers consistently and profitably manage complex components and demanding tolerances. The UK subcontractor produces around 2000 different components each year from a catalogue of 9000, with tolerances routinely reaching 5 µm. 

Working predominantly with non-ferrous materials, including aluminium, stainless steel, plastics and composites, Leicester-based JWA supplies one-off and medium-batch components for aerospace, defence and green energy applications.  

For more than 20 years, JWA has relied on Mastercam software as the foundation of its manufacturing infrastructure. Technical director Tim Shillabeer, who has extensive experience with multiple CAM platforms, says the software’s widespread use provides access to extensive knowledge and support, as well as training resources. 

However, JWA has gone beyond simply ‘using’ Mastercam. The company has developed standardised programming and set-up procedures that enable trained operators to move between jobs and machines with confidence. New employees can become proficient quickly, while annual refresher training helps maintain skills across the workforce. 

“As a long-time user of Mastercam, we’ve ironed out so many little nuances that work really well for us,” says Shillabeer. 

This standardisation has reduced machine downtime, shortened gaps between jobs, and eliminated hours lost through programming and set-up variations. It also enables JWA to respond rapidly to new manufacturing challenges using established libraries, defaults and processes. 

Describing the company as being “quite at the advanced end of the scale” in its use of Mastercam, managing director Pete Wood says the approach has helped JWA maintain demanding quality standards while scaling its operations. It has also supported the company’s achievement of AS9100 certification and created a flexible, skilled workforce capable of handling its diverse production requirements. 

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