Cranfield joins major innovation cluster

Cranfield University has become part of an industry innovation cluster which aims to address the complex challenges of the future of flight through close collaborative work.

The European Technology Development Clusters (E-TDCs) established by Avio Aero bring together prestigious universities, research centres and SMEs, and Cranfield is now a partner in the research framework. The partnership combines industry awareness of market needs and technology excellence, with Cranfield’s expertise and academic capabilities in manufacturing and materials.

More information www.cranfield.ac.uk

CPE wins £85m Rolls-Royce contract

Rolls-Royce has awarded Glasgow-based Castle Precision Engineering with a contract worth more than £85m for the manufacture and supply of precision-machined rotating aero engine parts. The new agreement, which was endorsed by the UK Government’s Scottish Secretary and runs through to the second half of the decade, continues a 40-year relationship with the firm. Formalising the continuation of the long-standing relationship with Castle Precision Engineering, reiterates the commitment of Rolls-Royce to the UK supply chain and UK skills.

More information www.rolls-royce.com

Two key promotions at Mills CNC

Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of Zayer machine tools from DN Solutions and Zayer in the UK and Ireland, has strengthened its management team through the promotion of two existing members of staff to director positions. Both appointments become effective from 1 August 2024.

Richard Wilson (pictured), current business manager for the West Midlands, Wiltshire and home counties region, has become Mills’ new sales director. This company-wide role will see Wilson assume responsibility for the strategic planning, co-ordination and implementation of the company’s UK sales operations. The second appointment sees Craig Clarke, Mills’ existing operations manager, promoted to operations director.

More information www.millscnc.co.uk

Nick Peter retires from Hainbuch UK

After 16 years of dedicated service, Nick Peter has retired from work-holding specialist Hainbuch UK Ltd. As the general manager of the UK subsidiary, Peter has been instrumental in the growth and success of the company during his tenure. Stepping down from his role, Dave Thompsell is now in place as the new manager. With over 35 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, Thompsell brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. He pledges to uphold the quality and standards established by Peter and to continue the company’s success.

More information www.hainbuch.com

Better productivity and safety with automation

In the steel construction realm, efficiency and automation stand as cornerstones for achieving top-tier quality standards promptly and reliably. Ficep, a global specialist in automated steel processing, meets these imperatives through its integrated solution featuring the Valiant drilling unit and the Katana bandsaw.

The Valiant + Katana system shines particularly bright in its swift process execution, empowered by automation and technology. This amalgamated approach reduces total processing time, outperforming scenarios reliant on specialist labour for finishing stages.

The process maintains a high level of control and predictability, aiding in streamlined production planning. With Valiant, processes such as drilling, automatic marking and milling operations come into play, leaving only welding ahead of the final painting phase. On the cutting front, Katana enables operators to execute both straight and mitred cuts up to 60° quickly.

These saws boast construction features tailored for high-speed performance, while upholding stringent cutting quality standards. Horizontal and vertical hydraulic clamps maximise workpiece stability, while robust motor power and bandsaw blade rotation speeds ensure efficient operations. Automated handling phases further enhance productivity.

The production momentum of this integrated system hinges on Ficep’s direct-drive spindles, channelling 100% of the motor power to the tool.

Notably, the integrated system’s installation stands out for its simplicity, requiring no expensive civil works. This translates to significant time and cost savings for customers, enabling quick production commencement and minimising downtime.

The Valiant + Katana system’s most significant advantage lies in its potential for full automation. With remote control via a mobile app, operators can monitor and manage the system from anywhere, optimising production efficiency even beyond regular working hours and during downtimes.

More information www.ficepgroup.com