SUBCONTRACTING NEWS

Numachine makes gains with Hyundai-Wia VTL

Numachine, a thriving Hereford-based business specialising in CNC machining and subcontract manufacturing, is embracing the advantages of its new Hyundai-Wia LV800RM vertical turning lathe (VTL) supplied by TW Ward CNC Machinery Ltd (Ward CNC). The quality and performance of the machine are contributing to the optimisation of the company’s manufacturing processes.

Renowned for its robust and heavy-duty cutting platform, the Hyundai-Wia LV800RM VTL boasts a one-piece, square-type column and a stable shaft structure. Noteworthy features of the machine include a two-step chuck pressure mechanism designed to minimise workpiece deformation and ensure optimal chip evacuation. Within the LV series, a dedicated protection device prevents chips and other foreign materials from entering the main spindle.

The Hyundai-Wia LV800RM offers a maximum turning diameter and turning length of 800mm, coupled with a maximum spindle speed of 2000 rpm. This addition to Numachine’s workshop enhances its machining capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to precision and efficiency in manufacturing processes.

Speaking on the experience of working with Ward CNC, managing director Brandon Davies says: “It was an entirely smooth experience. Ward CNC took care of processes such as specifying the machine based on our application, placing the order, delivery, installation and operator training.”

He continues:“We’re pleased with the quality and performance of the Hyundai-Wia vertical lathe; it’s a good addition to our range of machines. There was only one small issue a few months ago which was solved rapidly by Ward CNC and we’re completely satisfied with the performance of the company’s service.”

Davies concludes: “Looking ahead, we plan to enter the bespoke motorbike and mountain bike manufacturing segment, with Ward CNC likely to play a crucial role in these projects.”

For further information www.wardcnc.com

Bharat Forge Daun relies on Emag machines

Unusually sophisticated components and high-strength materials for high-tech applications, like stator housings for electromobility with tolerances in micron range, are among the machining challenges tackled by the specialists at Bharat Forge Daun in Germany. At the centre of this activity areseveral vertical turning lathes (VTLs) from Emag, which operate around the clock, five days a week.

The vertical design of thesemachines played an important role in the investment decision, asa horizontal machine from another manufacturer had caused difficulties in the past. Annoying chip clusters would form, requiring manual removal two or three times a shift.

“It was therefore obvious to us that we should carry out these processes in machines with a vertical design, because their unhindered chip flow prevents disruptions,” explainsChristoph Steffens, head of mechanical engineering at Bharat Forge Daun. “Our objective was to achieve maximum process reliability.”

Another factor in the decision in favour of Emag was existing knowledge: the machine tool manufacturer used examples from other customers toshow how its machines optimise stator machining – with low non-productive times and high-precision handling processes. Integrated automation, including a pick-up spindle and lateral conveyor belt, ensures fast processes, while the stable base body is made of Mineralit polymer concrete.

Last but not least, the response time and the expertise of Emag’s service department play an important role for Bharat Forge Daun. A regional service technician is always on site within a few hours and solves any problems directly.

“So far we have always been helped with minor faults in record time,” says Steffens.

For further information www.emag.com

Leadership transition at Dean Group

Manchester-based casting specialist Dean Group is implementing an important strategic shift as part of its leadership succession plan. Effective 1 July 2024, Pulkit Ahuja will take up the role of managing director, succeeding the retiring Graham Stubbs. Pulkit, a key member of the Dean Group team since 2019, has been selected for his proven proficiency in directing the company’s commercial operations, contributing significantly to its enhanced positioning within the casting industry. This planned succession reflects the company’s commitment to a seamless transition in leadership that ensures continuity.

For further information www.deangroup-int.co.uk

Automatic loading and blasting without ‘teaching’

When Ottostahl GmbH had to replace an old rotary table shot-blast machine, the company insisted on short cycle times, high energy efficiency and relieving its personnel from strenuous and monotonous physical activities. Rösler and automation specialist Teqram met these challenging demands with the universally deployable Easy Shotblaster RDT 150 rotary table, equipped with a stationary ‘intelligent’ robot. This robot places workpieces on the rotary table in a manner that optimally utilises the entire table area without requiring any ‘teaching’ operations.


Ottostahl in Magdeburg produces up to 30 mm thick, highly precise plasma-cut and up to 300 mm thick flame-cut components. In its shot-blasting department the company is
utilising three machines (two continuous flow roller conveyor machines with an operating width of 3800 mm and a rotary table blast machine). After more than 60 years of use, the company is replacing its old rotary table blast machine with an RDT 150 system from Rösler.

The entire blast system integrates within a manufacturing cell measuring 8 x 8 m, consisting of an intelligent stationary robot and the RDT 150 shot-blast machine.

With its image processing technology, the vision-controlled robot automatically recognises components placed into its working section, completely independent from their position on the pallet. This capability eliminates the normally required time-consuming teaching or programming of the robot. Moreover, with the intuitive interface, no special knowledge is necessary.
After the automatic selection of a suitable gripper from the magazine, the robot picks up components and places them on the rotary table in the optimal position. It provides component data to the machine controls for selecting a suitable processing program. Halfway through the cycle, the robot automatically turns the components to blast the other side. The robot then returns finished workpieces to the pallet.

For further information www.rosler.com

Recol to invest in automated fibre welder

Recol Ltd, a provider of sheet metal fabrication, precision machined components and mechanical assemblies, has placed an order for a new Amada FLW ENSISe 6 kW automated fibre laser welding machine. The first model of its type in Europe, the FLW ENSISe will enhance the quality and repeatability of the company’s welding operations while in many instances eliminating a number of on-processes, including straightening, grinding and polishing.

“We currently rely on manual TIG welding, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to source the skills,” reports Recol’s managing director Ben Guntrip. “We were waiting for the right time to invest in an automated solution: that time is now. Recol likes to be first out the gate as it gives us something in the initial 6-12 months that is unavailable elsewhere, potentially providing a pathway into new customers and markets.”

For further information www.amada.eu