SUBCONTRACTING NEWS

Morf3D reorganisation

Nikon Corporation (Nikon) is unveiling a strategic reorganisation of its subsidiary Morf3D, relaunching it under the new name Nikon AM Synergy (Nikon AM Synergy). Following Nikon’s full acquisition of Morf3D in July 2023, the company has undergone significant realignment in support of Nikon’s advanced manufacturing business strategy. Now operating from Long Beach, California, Nikon AM Synergy will accelerate the adoption and scaling of metal additive manufacturing (AM) for advanced applications in sectors such as aerospace and defence.

More information www.nikon.com

Emco Mecof mills for Baker Industries

Baker Industries, a Lincoln Electric company, is extending its manufacturing versatility and capacity and offering new in-house capabilities with the arrival of two new Emco Mecof UMill 1800 CNC universal machining centres. The new machines boast automatic tool changers and diverse high-speed five-axis machining capabilities that include milling, drilling, turning and undercutting. A large work envelope of 1.8 x 2.15 x 1.25 m (X/Y/Z) supports the ability to turn parts up to about 2.5 m in diameter. The machine commenced production at the company’s Detroit facility at end of 2023.

More information www.bakerindustriesinc.com

Precision machinist invests in Wenzel CMM

Subcontract machining specialist Barth Präzisionstechnik offers a broad component manufacturing capability range from 5 to 2500 mm, and from 5 g to over 2 tonnes. Serving customers in industries such as energy, construction and mechanical engineering, the company’s philosophy is based on maximum precision, a zero-defect mentality and absolute adherence to deadlines.

In keeping with this tradition of continuous quality optimisation, the Binzwang-based company opted for an LH 2015 CMM from Wenzel. The LH 2015 gantry measuring machine features WM Quartis software and the Revo five-axis multi-sensor probe system from Renishaw. The latter offers a combination of contact measurement and scanning, which enables fast and precise measurement of even complex components. Due to its high flexibility and accuracy, the combination of the Revo with the LH 2015 opens up considerable advantages and a wide range of possible applications.

WM Quartis software forms the heart of the measurement solution and enables the precise recording, analysis and visualisation of measurement data. Thanks to its intuitive user interface and versatile functions, Wenzel says the tried-and-tested measurement software is an indispensable tool for quality control.

The professional team at Wenzel supported Barth with the integration of the LH 2015, resulting in a smooth commissioning process. The machine enables the company to optimise its production processes and deliver first-class products to its customers.

The three generations of the Barth family currently actively involved in the business are unanimous: “Manufactured by a German family business for use at a German family business that handles high-precision measuring tasks, this measuring machine is not only sustainable for our company today, but also represents pioneering technology for future generations.”

More information www.wenzel-group.com

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Better on-site calibration with new capabilities

Calibrationhouse, a provider of UKAS-accredited calibration services, is commencing a £500,000 investment in an extensive suite of new capabilities to streamline and enhance equipment calibration for the manufacturing industry. The new services are set to offer a one-stop shop for calibration needs as it is possible to perform the majority of them at customer premises.

In 2023, Calibrationhouse rolled out new calibration capabilities including bore gauges, verniers, micrometers, height gauges, thermal imaging cameras and torque wrenches. The company also introduced inclinometer, protractor and expanded temperature calibration capabilities. This year, the company will offer calibration of force gauges, current transformers, high-pressure gauges, liquid flow, mass, gauge blocks and humidity devices.

A key advantage for manufacturers is the ability of Calibrationhouse to calibrate a wide range of equipment on-site, reducing lead times and equipment downtime.

Calibrationhouse’s engineers can deliver calibration services directly at customer premises, meaning crucial test equipment is unavailable for minutes rather than days. Alternatively, manufacturers can opt to send their equipment to Calibrationhouse’s base in Peterlee for back-to-base calibration completed within five working days from receipt.

Andrew Simpson, manager of Calibrationhouse, said: “We’re providing a comprehensive calibration solution of the highest quality that enables us to calibrate almost all of our customers test equipment, as recognised by our continuous accreditation as an approved vendor for the prestigious UK defence sector [JOSCAR]. Traditionally, manufacturers had to rely on multiple calibration companies who could each only handle a portion of their calibration needs. Our expanded capabilities mean manufacturers can now turn to Calibrationhouse as a one-stop shop.”

More information www.calibrationhouse.com

Sustainability at ASG

ASG Group, the Stockport-based aerospace conglomerate, is making significant strides in decarbonising aerospace manufacturing. With a long-term vision for sustainability, the company is spearheading initiatives across its subsidiaries, including ASG Produmax in Bradford, Bromborough-based ASG AMF and ASG King & Fowler in Liverpool. Group managing director Simon Weston says: “From partnering with local councils to investing in renewable energy and innovative processes, we are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and leading the industry towards a sustainable future.”

More information www.asg-group.co