Device checks small tool holder pull-in force

OTT-JAKOB Spanntechnik, a German manufacturer of tool clamping systems for lathes, milling machines and grinders, has launched a spindle clamping force measuring device, the Power-Check Micro. A key component for preventative maintenance, it has been introduced alongside the established Power-Check 2 and Power Check Magazine, which determine the pull-in force with which a tool holder is held in a large diameter spindle taper, whether it is HSK (up to 160), BT (30, 40 or 50), SK, CAT or another type.

In contrast, the Power-Check Micro is designed to perform an equivalent job for more compact HSK E15, E16 and E20 spindle interfaces, which are mainly found on small, precise machine tools intended for high-speed cutting. Such machining platforms are typically utilised in the dentistry and jewellery sectors, as well as for the production of small parts used in electronic and medical products, precision components in aerospace and automotive engineering, and small tools and dies.

These pull force measuring units are exclusively available in Britain and Ireland through sole sales agent Gewefa UK. The company points out that the new device is pertinent to nearly all micro-manufacturing applications, where there is a growing emphasis on process reliability, condition monitoring, preventative maintenance and quality assurance.

The latest drawbar force monitoring system is of compact design, measuring just 48.8 x 43 x 41.5 mm and weighing approximately 200 g, making the unit suitable for use in constrained working areas. Mains-independent, power arrives courtesy of two replaceable lithium batteries capable of up to 1000 hours of continuous operation.

More information www.gewefa.co.uk

Daltons Wadkin named UK supplier for Schiavi

Daltons Wadkin, a UK multi-material machine solution supplier, has established a new partnership with Italian manufacturer Schiavi, becoming the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for its press brake range.The move marks a milestone in Daltons Wadkin’s continued expansion into CNC metalworking technologies. It also signals the company’s intent to position itself as a full-service provider for sheet metal processing from cut to bend to finish. Under the agreement, Daltons Wadkin will offer four press brake models from Schiavi’s portfolio – the BSTs, HFBs , HFBx and LineAr – all of which can be fully automated.

More information www.daltonswadkin.com

David Brown Becomes SID President

During this year’s SID (Syndicat International du Décolletage) International Congress in Chicago, it was announced that David Brown, current president of the BTMA (British Turned Parts Manufacturers Association) and director at Neida (Stoke-based precision component supplier), will serve as SID president from 2025 to 2027.

SID was created in 1963 to bring together national organisations representing the precision machining industry. For over 10 years, Brown has been a member of the BTMA and, during his current presidency, has driven manufacturing initiatives related to skills and training, legislation and regulations, sustainability, and process improvements. During his new presidency at SID, Brown’s key objectives will take on a global focus.More information www.neida.co.uk

£17m hydrogen aviation project

The MTC (Manufacturing Technology Centre) is playing a pivotal role in a major new £17m initiative to accelerate the development of a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell system that could power commercial aircraft before the end of the decade. Project HEIGHTS – a three-year programme led by Intelligent Energy – aims to advance the company’s modular 300 kW aviation fuel cell platform, IE-FLIGHT 300, for use in next-generation aircraft.

MTC has secured £1.2m in funding from the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) to support the work. It will utilise the latest design tools and state-of-the-art metal additive manufacturing equipment to reduce the weight and size of critical components developed and tested in the HEIGHTS project. The work will be completed in a way which will also enable these parts to be manufactured on a commercial scale.

More information www.the-mtc.org

13,319 at Smart Manufacturing Week

Smart Manufacturing Week 2025 says it welcomed 13,319 attendees across two action-packed days at the NEC in Birmingham earlier this month. The event combined the latest technology with an extensive educational programme and a vibrant show floor. Adding extra flair were celebrity look-a-likes, movie robots and live music, creating a dynamic atmosphere that celebrated innovation and industry. 

With 456 exhibitors on the show floor, attendees explored hundreds of cutting-edge products and solutions driving the future of industry. Exhibitors enjoyed strong footfall across both days, supported by a steady buzz of conversation and energy. The dates for the Smart Manufacturing Week exhibitions next year have been confirmed as 3-4 June 2026. 

More information https://bit.ly/4kzvXfK