AVL and Comau join forces

AVL List GmbH, an engineering, simulation and testing technology specialist for powertrain systems, and Comau SpA, which develops automation products and systems, have joined forces to offer modular and flexible solutions for the electric vehicle market.

As of 1 January 2019, AVL and Comau will have an open co-operation in the simulation, design, assembly and testing of powertrain components for electric as well as traditional vehicles. The initial focus of the partnership will be on assembly systems and end-of-line testing for automotive batteries.
For further information www.comau.com

Order intake surpasses £53m mark

In the UK, Trumpf has recorded an order intake of £53.3 million in 2017/18, with a preliminary operating profit of £951,239.

“We continued to see a high number of new customers in the past 12 months, while existing customers purchased more complex solutions with several taking their first steps into the digital revolution of machine tools,” explains managing director Lee Moakes.
“Trumpf is now providing its most comprehensive package ever to ensure customers get the best return on their investment,” he adds. “Moreover, we continue to grow our support team, increasing technical service capacity by more than 10% this year. As a result, we will be prepared for the further growth of Trumpf and its customers.” With the current order intake and the forecasted outlook into 2019, recruitment at the company is set to continue.
For further information www.uk.trumpf.com

Latest Chester catalogue now available

Chester Machine Tools has published a new 340-page catalogue containing a wide selection of CNC machining centres and lathes, including new high-performance models and an increased range of conventional machines. The publication also includes a comprehensive tooling and accessories section.

With over 50 new products available, Chester has expanded its product portfolio to provide machine-tool solutions that meet the demands of modern industrial, manufacturing and educational establishments seeking the latest in machining technology. A copy of the 26th edition of Chester Machine Tools Industrial Catalogue can be requested by visiting the website. The catalogue is also available as an Android App for download via Google Play.
For further information www.chestermachinetools.com

Third Dimension wins innovation award

Third Dimension, a supplier of handheld precision measurement solutions, is celebrating its success as a regional winner of the EEF Business Growth & Strategy Award.

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Neal Agar and Ellie O’Hare represented the company at a gala dinner hosted within the Beaulieu motor museum, to mark the achievement. Tim Monks, CEO at Third Dimension, says: “Turning innovative ideas into commercial success is what makes our business tick, so I’m delighted that we have won this award.”
For further information www.third.com

Buyout at KMF Group

Family-run engineering firm KMF Group has been fully bought out by its founding family with the backing of a seven-figure funding package from HSBC UK, almost 50 years after the company was established.

The MBO sees founding director Michael Higgins, and sons Gareth and Daniel, who have worked at the business for a combined 85 years, take full ownership of KMF. The Higgins family
worked with HSBC UK to secure the MBO after the group’s former co-owner, Dacoll Enterprises Ltd, sought to sell its 50% stake.
Following news of the buyout, the group has confirmed ambitious growth targets as part of its 50-year anniversary in 2021. The firm will focus on continued technological investment and further market expansion via its two growing sheet-metal manufacturing facilities. KMF Group employs over 500 people in factories located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, UK and Trencin, Slovakia.
For further information www.kmf.co.uk