Editor’s Pick

SteelFab marks 15 years as major showcase

SteelFab 2019, which takes place on 14-17 January at the Expo Centre in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, will mark 15 years as a major technology showcase in the Middle East.

Today, SteelFab has emerged as the region’s premier trade show for metalworking, metal manufacturing and steel fabrication. This time around, strong macro-economic tailwinds are set to propel the growth of Middle East industry. Prominent among them is the rise in oil prices, which coupled with easier fiscal consolidation and tax reforms, will help the UAE, the most diversified economy in the GCC, to register growth of 3.8% in 2018.
At the event, first time machine tool exhibitors will include Haas and BLM, while a new UK pavilion will showcase companies such as Chester Machine Tools (pictured at the 2018 event), Kingsbury, Kitchen & Walker and Brierley. Dedicated pavilions will also be present for Germany and Taiwan. In total, around 300 exhibitors from 23 different countries will take part. Spanning six halls, over 7000 visitors are expected.
For further information www.steelfabme.com

Mazak recognised for environmental best practice

Yamazaki Mazak UK has won the Silver Environment Award at the International Green Apple Awards, for its efforts to reduce single-use plastic cups at its European Manufacturing Plant in Worcester.

The national campaign by The Green Organisation recognises and rewards the greenest individuals, companies, councils and communities in the country, with the winners announced at a recent ceremony hosted by Liz Kendall MP at the Houses of Parliament.
Mazak competed against more than 800 other nominations in the Environmental Best Practice category, but the company’s project, ‘Reduce and Remove Single-Use Plastic Cups’, stood out. Historically, the Worcester factory was using 8000 disposable cups per month, but thanks to the efforts of Mazak’s Environment Team, this has been significantly reduced. There is now potential for the company to represent the UK in the Green World Awards 2019 and have 100 trees planted in its name as part of the United Nations’ Billion Trees initiative.
For further information www.mazakeu.co.uk

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

Keynote speakers announced

Advanced Engineering 2018, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham this week (31 October to 1 November), has announced keynote speakers including Jaguar Land Rover, Atkins, the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the Aerospace Technology Institute, the Department for International Trade, BARA and Siemens.

This year, the show comprises six co-located zones: Aerospace Engineering; Composites Engineering; Automotive Engineering; Performance Metals; Connected Manufacturing; and Nuclear Engineering. Each zone will have a range of speakers talking about current topics, such as big data, Industry 4.0, space, Brexit, aircraft of the future, electrification and robotics.
Alison Willis, industrial divisional director at Easyfairs, organiser of Advanced Engineering, says: “We are delighted to announce our speakers for the 10th year of the show and are excited to hear their take on the challenges and successes of the industry over the past year. Our expert speakers and industry keynotes will stimulate lively discussions with insightful presentations.”
For further information www.advancedengineeringuk.com

A&M EDM showcases engineering

Greg Clark, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, recently visited precision engineering company A&M EDM in Smethwick, West Midlands to understand what drives growth and the issues facing a manufacturing SME.

The Business Secretary met some of A&M’s current and recent apprentices, speaking to individuals about their motivation to take up an apprenticeship, the work they undertake and the skills they are developing by working with experienced engineers. All of A&M’s apprentices study for academic engineering qualifications at Dudley College.
Mark Wingfield, managing director of A&M EDM, said: “We had an informed discussion with the Business Secretary on how the Industrial Strategy can accelerate West Midlands manufacturing and A&M’s initiative to develop its own apprentices.”
Added Clark: “The Industrial Strategy for the West Midlands will harness its distinctive strengths to unlock greater growth and earning power across the region’s cities and towns.”
A&M showcased engines and components manufactured for aerospace and automotive customers. In addition, Clark saw a new high-speed CNC machining centre and handheld alloy analyser in action; these were part funded by a Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) grant to create new manufacturing jobs.
The Business Secretary discussed the practical implementation of the Industrial Strategy with senior representatives of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, Black Country LEP, Dudley College and the EEF.
A&M has grown from a two man start-up in 2002, to 67 staff and sales of over £6m in 2018. This has been achieved using EDM and CNC machining to design and manufacture precision components and tooling for a range of UK and international customers.
For further information www.amedm.co.uk