£200,000 automation cell unveiled

A £200,000 automation cell was unveiled at In-Comm Training’s Telford Technical Academy
earlier this month. The independent training provider has extended its commitment to
employer-led provision by introducing a six-axis ABB industrial robot and bespoke conveyor
system that replicates a real-world manufacturing line.
In-Comm’s new automation cell gives learners access to component nesting and sensing,
robotic operation, PLC programming, and interfacing systems. Training will focus on
delivering Level 3 and Level 4 courses, with engineers learning how to interact with PLCs,
perform essential maintenance tasks and automate production lines.
More information www.in-comm.co.uk

EUROBLECH

Across the two days, some 8943 attendees witnessed the latest innovations that the UK has
to offer from over 400 exhibitors at Advanced Engineering 2023, making it an extremely
busy and energetic event. The 2024 event taking place this week (30-31 October at the
Birmingham NEC) will prove the same, with a myriad of advanced technologies in the
spotlight.
There will be a notable presence of decision-makers, buyers, founders, directors and CEOs
from prominent manufacturing and engineering companies in attendance. Active
participation from every supply chain tier will ensure a comprehensive and inclusive
industry gathering. Companies across the entire spectrum of the manufacturing process,
spanning from the initial stages of R&D to the final manufacturing product, are set to
provide a holistic and inclusive representation of the industry.
Advanced Engineering stands as the epicentre for innovation, knowledge, collaboration and
open discussions regarding the current challenges and outlook of the industry. In support of
this ethos, the event will once again provide an extensive programme of expert speakers.
There will be six keynote presentations by industry leaders who, alongside 150+ other
speakers, will share their expertise and insights on critical sector issues during talks across
several different forums.
The first of this year’s keynote speakers, Brian Holliday, is a leading figure in industrial
technology and digital manufacturing. As the head of Siemens Digital Industries for the UK
and Ireland, he oversees advanced automation, industry software, systems integration and
R&D. Holliday is an expert on productivity, digital manufacturing and industrial strategy,
often contributing to media discussions.
The next speaker Matthew Atkinson, lead research engineer at Jaguar Land Rover, is an
expert in automotive engineering, specialising in replacing metallic structures with injection
moulded composites. His work focusses on interior mechanical commodities like cockpit,
seating and loadspace features. Atkinson’s innovative approach has earned him multiple
patents, including for the Range Rover 18MY executive seating.
Next, Shaun Harris CBE is currently director of support and chief engineer at the Royal Air
Force. With a distinguished 37-year career in the RAF, Harris has held numerous leadership

roles. His extensive experience spans engineering, logistics and information warfare. He has
served around the world, from the UK and USA to Afghanistan and Iraq.
Also set to speak are Solange Baena, UK lead for the aviation environmental roadmap at
Airbus, and Leonie Moffat, laser radar sales account manager at Nikon. Last but most
certainly not least is Stefan Lawrenson, senior polymer chemist at Scott Bader, who
specialises in sustainable technology and polymer chemistry. His research focusses on
enhancing nanoparticles and synthesising eco-friendly materials.
Elsewhere at the show, the Composites Forum will feature a range of industry experts
discussing crucial topics. Among the speakers is Dr Sue Halliwell, operations manager at
Composites UK, who is organising the forum, which will feature insights from other industry
leaders in what is an impressive line-up.
Along with Brian Holliday and Stefan Lawrenson, the forum will also feature Jen Hill, director
at B&M Longworth, Ian Jenner, director of control systems at Busch UK, and Tony Lloyd,
principal research engineer at GKN Aerospace. A notable session will focus on workforce
development, addressing key issues such as skills gaps, equity, diversity and inclusion, in
alignment with the #mindtheskillsgap campaign. This session will be led by Matt Bradney
from Prodrive, who chairs the Composites UK Workforce Development Group, alongside
Halliwell.
“This year’s speaker line-up brings together some of the brightest minds in the industry,”
says Alison Willis, CEO of the show’s organiser, Easyfairs UK & Global. “Their diverse
expertise will provide deep insights into pressing issues like Industry 4.0, supply chain
management and sustainability.”
She continues: “The line-up highlights the spirit of innovation that Advanced Engineering is
all about, and our commitment to fostering knowledge exchange within the engineering
community. I’m sure the knowledge and inspiration they’ll bring to the event will be of value
to all visitors.”
Advanced Engineering brings together industry leaders and professionals to explore the
latest innovations across multiple sectors, including aerospace, automotive, defence and
security, marine and more. Attendees can expect presentations on a wide range of topics,
from digitally enabled supply chains to advanced propulsion technologies.
To provide a small flavour of prospective exhibits at the show, LK Metrology (stand J132) has
an interesting proposition for the manufacturing community. Manufacturers wishing to
inspect components machined to tight tolerances, but unwilling to invest in an expensive,
ultra-high-accuracy CMM, now have the option of selecting the company’s Altera C HA,
which is available in five sizes. The second-smallest CMM model, 10.7.7, will be exhibited on
the company’s stand.

The ceramic-bridge machines are constructed from the same component parts as the
standard Altera C range, but are optimised during build at the company’s Derbyshire
production facility to deliver 16% higher accuracy during a measuring cycle, with 13% more
repeatability and 50% more accurate scanning. Volumetric accuracy is from 1.3+L/350,
repeatability from 0.0013 mm and scanning accuracy from 0.002 mm.
Those seeking the latest cutting tool solutions should visit T171, where ITC will be
presenting its new micro-tool programme. A new catalogue highlighting micro-tools from
Karnasch, will be on show. The range starts at 0.05 mm and reaches 6 mm in diameter with
the latest coatings applied. It targets various material groups, including aluminium, steel,
hardened steels, exotic materials and composites. 
 
The milling geometries include tools with sharp corners, radiused corners, and ball noses. All
geometries have exacting tolerances designed for high-value mould and die applications. A
new range of micro drills and micro threadmills are also included. There are three drilling
ranges, including through coolant, starting at 0.8 mm and going up to 2.95 mm diameter,
with different length versions. There is also a solid range from 0.10 up to 3 mm diameter. 
Another cutting tool supplier, Mapal (stand M182) will use the exhibition to showcase high-
volume milling products, in particular the latest tooling solutions for the fluid power and
aerospace industries.
Eugene Nugent, national sales manager, says: “We look forward to connecting with industry
professionals to demonstrate our full capabilities as a leading tool manufacturer and
technology partner. Mapal products are proven to increase overall manufacturing
productivity and throughput. Our representatives can provide expert guidance for a wide
range of tooling solutions.”
As an exhibition partner, MTI magazine will also be present at the show on stand F190.
Please call by to pick up a print copy of our show issue or simply to chat about the industry’s
easiest and most effective way of selling and buying machine tools.
More information www.advancedengineeringuk.com

EUROBLECH 2024: PIONEERING THE TRANSITION TO GREATER PRODUCTIVITY

From 22 to 25 October, the international sheet metal working industry will gather at EuroBLECH 2024 in Hanover, Germany. Under the theme, ‘The Power of Productivity’, some 1300 exhibitors from 40 countries will showcase the world’s largest selection of sheet metalworking technology under one roof, all designed to boost performance and efficiency.

Spanning over 160,000 m² of space, the event will feature a wealth of live demonstrations and product premieres. The exhibition will also host a packed event programme, guided visitor tours, the EuroBLECH Awards and a dedicated ‘Careers Day’ to promote young talent.

EuroBLECH covers the entire supply chain in 15 technology sectors. The event attracts high-profile visitors with decision-making power, all seeking innovative manufacturing solutions and machines. Technologies on display comprise stamping, punching, pressing, forming, cutting, joining, welding, fastening, handling, finishing, quality control, CAD/CAM/CIM software, tools, warehouse and factory equipment, material recycling systems, and many more.

This week’s 2024 edition will once again offer a unique visitor experience at the core of the industry, kicking off four days of intense product sourcing, networking and learning. A strong line-up of suppliers from around the globe will fill nine exhibition halls with thousands of exhibits and live machinery.

“We are currently witnessing rapid developments in automation, robotics, AI and IoT devices,” explains Evelyn Warwick, event director of EuroBLECH, on behalf of RX. “Digitalisation, connectivity and big data are playing a crucial role here, allowing more efficiency, precision and real-time adjustments within the production process. This year’s EuroBLECH will be the place to look for guidance on how to use these game-changers in a meaningful way within your own production. Making informed choices is the key to unlocking the true power of productivity in terms of output, performance, costs and sustainability.”

Among the exhibitors will be Yamazaki Mazak, which will announce the European debut of its OptiPlex 3015 Ez laser processing machine. According to the company, this cutting-edge technology offers high-quality laser processing capabilities at a cost-effective price point. The 6 kW machine on display at EuroBLECH will be exhibited as part of a fully integrated manufacturing cell, which takes the workpiece from raw material through to the finished parts.

Another exhibitor with a focus on laser cutting will be LVD, which will also unveil a new machine offering low investment and operating costs. The new laser is available in three configurations to meet price/performance needs and thus deliver the lowest cost per part manufacturing. It can be equipped with a MOVit Load-Assist automation system.

Elsewhere at the show, BLM Group will present its LS7 sheet metal laser cutting system with a 20 kW power source and automatic warehouse in a compact tower version for 24/7 continuous production. According to BLM, the LS7 is a compact, high-performance laser machine with a fast pallet change of only 9 seconds.

As the sector’s flagship event, EuroBLECH successfully fosters a culture of innovation, pushing progress within the industry. This year’s event will host many young companies and new participants alongside well-known global players, giving visitors exclusive access to an ever broader array of fresh ideas and technologies.

One out of five companies in the halls will be a new exhibitor, while a dedicated ‘Young Innovators’ Pavilion in hall 15 will feature promising start-ups from Germany. Besides Germany, major exhibitor countries for 2024 are Italy, Türkiye, China, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Austria, Portugal, Sweden, India, Finland, France and the USA. Around 64% of all exhibitors are based outside Germany.

A total of 76 companies are shortlisted for a EuroBLECH 2024 Award, industry prizes that recognise outstanding achievements in technical excellence and innovation. Six winners will be honoured at the official awards ceremony on the first day of the exhibition, at 17:00 in the presentation area of hall 27. The ‘Award Trails’ are a new highlight this year, featuring all nominated companies. Six trails filled with cutting-edge innovation are waiting to be explored, one for each of the award categories: Stamping and Forming Technology, Cutting Technology, Joining Technology, Surface Technology, Automation and Handling, and Sustainability.

For visitors wishing to explore further the transformative power of innovation, EuroBLECH offers carefully curated guided visitor tours focusing on productivity solutions by companies such as Amada, Libellula, OTC Daihen Europe, Panasonic Connect Europe, Rico-Thomas Castro Silva, SEYI Presses Europe, Voortman Steel Machinery and Wila. Each stop includes a short presentation and Q&A session with an exhibitor representative. Tours can be booked online.

The popular speaker forum will make a return, featuring expert talks and presentations on key topics such as automation, robotics, cobots, IoT and the industrial metaverse. Sessions run alongside the exhibition in the presentation areas in halls 26 and 27. A special panel discussion will address ‘Automation as a solution to mitigate skilled labour shortage’ on Wednesday 23 October at 15:00 in hall 26.

And Friday 25 October is ‘Careers Day’, promoting young talent in the industry. Students and apprentices are invited to visit the exhibition free of charge to help them engage with potential future employers and groundbreaking technologies on the market.

The official event website provides extensive information on the exhibition profile and show visit, including a full exhibitor list with company and product descriptions, and a comprehensive online show preview with search and filter functions to help attendees find the companies and products most relevant to them. With a simple click, users can create a list of favourite suppliers which they can export for easy access on multiple devices. Visitors can also subscribe to the EuroBLECH e-news to keep informed ahead of the show.

Daily opening times are 09:00 to 18:00. Tickets are €39 for a day ticket and €70 for a season ticket (valid on all four show days). Additional ticket options include guided visitor tours at €25. The ticket shop and registration are available online.

More information www.euroblech.com

Sarix unveils SX30-pm micro-EDM hole drill

Sarix says that the release of its new SX30-pm micro-EDM hole drill allows customers to boost productivity at an affordable price. Designed to push the boundaries of what is possible, the SX30-pm combines high micro-drilling speed with extreme accuracy.

Imagine producing zero-deviation, precision, wire-cut free holes in a fraction of existing cycle times, whether working with tough aerospace-grade materials, medical devices or complex watch components. Sarix says that the SX30-pm’s advanced technology ensures superior results, helping users to increase throughput, reduce downtime and stay ahead of the competition.

Offering high-speed micro drilling, the SX30-pm is suitable for jobs ranging from 3.0 mm down to 100 µm. The machine delivers a high depth aspect ratio for extreme deep-hole drilling. It has travel of 300 x 300 x 400 x 400 in the X, Y, Z and W axis respectively, supported by a positioning precision of 0.01 mm (resolution 0.1 µm). An option is available offering positioning position of ±0.003 mm. The machine features automatic axis co-ordinate positioning and depth control.

The new SX-HMI interface streamlines programming and editing tasks with intuitive operating apps. Furthermore, the SX-Pulsar generator employs the latest Sarix ‘Micro-Pulse Shape’ EDM technologies for faster, deeper and more precise holes than conventional machines, reports the company.

Additional features include an automatic electrode re-feeding spindle and continuous production with the high-pressure flushing of dielectric oil or deionised water. An optional SX-MDH micro deep-hole drilling device is available for producing 0.10 mm deep holes in 15 mm carbide (Sarix patented).

More information www.sarix.com

Allied finds recipe for success in Vollmer

In the past six years, Poole-based Allied Tooling has more than doubled its turnover to over £7m. Central to this expansion has been a company re-branding, the introduction of PCD round tools and saw blades, and becoming the UK’s exclusive AKE saw blade partner.

Allied today supplies and services over 6000 tools and saw blades each month. To help facilitate this output, the 60+ employee manufacturer for the woodworking, kitchen, marine, construction, composite, aerospace, automotive and motorsport sectors, has ramped up its investment in grinding and erosion machines from Vollmer.

The first Vollmer machine arrived in the 1990s and the company has purchased more than 20 Vollmer models over the years. The latest tranche of Vollmer machines commenced when PCD tooling went from being an outsourced solution to a serious addition to the product range. Identifying this industry trend at an early stage, Allied invested in two Vollmer QXD250 disc erosion machines with the H5 28-tool automation solution in June 2018 and a VPulse 500 wire EDM in March 2023.

“While the QXD 250 is perfect for TCT saws up to 320 mm diameter, it also has the flexibility to process all our PCD end mills, drills and cutters,” explains Allied’s managing director Wes Hacker. “The arrival of the QXD reduced our lead times by more than two weeks on bespoke tool solutions.”

The same HC5 28 tool external workpiece storage system is also present on the VPulse 500 machine that arrived in March 2023.

“We purchased the VPulse 500 for its flexibility,” says Hacker. “The new VPulse EDM generator significantly improves productivity and this means we can run a batch of 20+ tools lights-out with exceptional efficiency – further supporting our ambition to compress lead times.”

More information www.vollmer-group.com