EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

HBK Tech Days 2025

HBK is launching its durability and reliability Technology Days 2025. A fully virtual and free-to-attend event taking place across three dates in November, this interactive series once again brings together engineers and industry leaders to explore the latest advancements in fatigue crack growth, fatigue at elevated temperature, fatigue test data management and reliability modelling. Taking place on 4, 11 and 18 November, HBK Technology Days 2025 will feature six in-depth sessions lasting around 90 minutes each. The sessions have been built to provide engineers with practical tools they can apply directly to their work.

More information www.bit.ly/46fdrEQ

Siemens and Trumpf Enter Partnership

Technology company Siemens and machine tool and laser manufacturer Trumpf have entered a partnership that promises to elevate industrial production by harnessing advanced digital manufacturing solutions. The collaboration joins Siemens’ Xcelerator portfolio with Trumpf’s machine-building and software expertise.

The partnership addresses a critical challenge in modern manufacturing: the disconnect between IT and OT systems. By leveraging Siemens’ Xcelerator portfolio and Trumpf’s manufacturing prowess, the collaboration aims to deliver comprehensive solutions that bridge this gap. Both companies are working on open and interoperable IT interfaces that will help advance AI readiness for motion control applications.

More information www.trumpf.com

Brandauer Presses on to The Next Chapter

Birmingham-based precision stamping specialist Brandauer has been purchased by its management team with the vision of creating a world leading precision engineering specialist. Current CEO Rowan Crozier, manufacturing director Stuart Berry and non-executive director David Chapman have joined forces to buy the company, with the trio immediately laying out a 10-year plan that will initially drive annual sales to £12m by 2029.

Financed by HSBC, the deal will ensure the company remains in UK ownership and in a strong position to explore opportunities associated with its tooling, stamping, R&D and newly founded consultancy service. More than 20 new jobs could be added to Brandauer’s existing 64-strong team when the vision is realised.

More information www.brandauer.co.uk

Fives Acquires Italy-based Pietro Carnaghi

Fives has acquired Pietro Carnaghi SpA, an Italy-based manufacturer of large machine tools. Together, the operations of Fives’ HPM division and Pietro Carnaghi are expected to generate revenue of approximately €400-450m, relying on the combined workforce strengths of 1,900 global employees to expand markets, enhance capabilities and deliver even greater value to clients.

Fives will increase its manufacturing capabilities and gain greater control over its supply chain, thanks to the integration of a state-of-the-art 45,000 m² industrial facility in northern Italy. Says Giuliano Radice, chairman of Pietro Carnaghi: “This transaction reinforces our ability to maintain ongoing activities and honour existing contractual commitments, ensuring a consistent and high-quality presence in the market.” More information www.fivesgroup.com

Employers wanted

A UK engineering and manufacturing apprenticeship provider is urging companies in the Black Country, Birmingham and Shropshire to continue tapping into a 200-strong talent pool to help ease recruitment worries. In-Comm Training, which operates two technical academies in Aldridge and Telford, had the biggest collection of young people looking for vocational learning placements in its 43-year history during the summer. The firm has already placed 125 individuals with employers and is now seeking to find positions for a further 75 for the October/November intake.

More information www.bit.ly/4n3d3Ps