Smart cooling channel guidance for MAPAL’s UNIQ chuck

MAPAL has introduced the DirectCool option for its UNIQ hydraulic chuck range, adding decentralised cooling to improve process reliability in machining applications. The development responds to increasing demands for thermal stability and consistent performance in modern production.

MAPAL launched the UNIQ hydraulic chuck series in 2020 and has since expanded the portfolio to include UNIQ DReaM chucks for boring and reaming, and UNIQ Mill chucks for milling. The new DirectCool feature extends the capability of both systems.

DirectCool guides coolant along the tool shaft to the cutting edge through three internal channels. This targeted supply supports even temperature distribution, reduces thermal distortion and limits wear. It also improves chip evacuation, particularly in boring operations where chips can wrap around the tool. By stabilising the process at the cutting zone, the system helps maintain surface quality and reduce the risk of tool breakage.

The integration of DirectCool does not alter the external geometry or restrict tool selection. Users can continue to run existing tools, including those that lack internal cooling, without modifying established processes. The system does not require special shank grooves. MAPAL first presented DirectCool to the public at the last EMO exhibition in Hannover, Germany.

The option is available for UNIQ Mill chucks and HA and UNIQ DReaM chucks with 4.5° outer geometry in diameters from 6 to 32 mm. UNIQ hydraulic chucks share the same outer geometry as shrink chucks but feature a glossy surface and blue screw in the HSK collar for identification.

More information www.mapal.com

Hurco show of strength

In the opinion of David Waghorn, managing director of machine tool supplier Hurco Europe, the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics show in Farnborough last month delivered on every front. Visitor numbers stood at 10,722, more than 5% up on last time, enquiry levels were high and the atmosphere throughout the hall reflected a manufacturing industry that is both resilient and ready to invest. Hurco welcomed a significant number of new contacts exploring its product range for the first time. Over the three-day event, 140 visitors from 88 companies engaged in detailed discussions on the company’s stand.

More information www.hurco.com

Enginuity appoints Ritchey as new deputy chair

Ian Ritchey has been appointed as the new deputy chair of UK engineering and manufacturing skills charity, Enginuity Group. The appointment strengthens the board at a time when the sector is navigating a period of rapid change. Ritchey brings a wealth of experience from across technical industries, including aerospace, defence, marine, nuclear and energy, and a proven track record of leading complex engineering organisations and programmes. His insight will be invaluable as Enginuity continues to champion an employer-led skills system that equips businesses with the talent they need now and into the future. 

More information www.enginuity.org

FANUC again named in top 100 innovators

Industrial automation specialist FANUC Corporation has been recognised as one of the Top 100 Global Innovators 2026 by Clarivate Plc, for the fifth consecutive year. Clarivate recognises and ranks the world’s top 100 most innovative corporations and institutions based on proprietary patent data. With AI technology rapidly rising to prominence, this year’s listed companies represent 16% of all high-intensity AI-related inventions. As evidenced by its recent partnership with AI leader NVIDIA, FANUC is focusing on AI technology to drive innovation within manufacturing.

More information www.bit.ly/4qWveYr

Sheffield Forgemasters celebrates 250 years

Sheffield Forgemasters is celebrating its 250-year anniversary. The Ministry of Defence-owned business has traced its heritage back to 1776, the year of American independence, when George Naylor helped his cutlery manufacturing partnership to move into steelmaking through the construction of a crucible steel furnace in the city.

CEO Gary Nutter says: “We’re dedicating 2026 to recognising the vast contribution that the company and its forerunners made to establishing Sheffield as the world’s most important steelmaking centre. We’ll celebrate this milestone with our people and the wider community, marking the new legacy we’re creating through our £1.3bn investment programme that will set the business up for generations to come.”

More information www.sheffieldforgemasters.com