THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

AMRC exploring WAAM for Aerospace

Additive manufacturing experts from the University of Sheffield AMRC North West are exploring an innovative technique to produce hydrogen storage tanks for aerospace applications. Dr Evren Yasa, head of additive manufacturing (AM) for the AMRC, led a team of researchers on a project using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) to print 3D metal parts. The process uses an electric arc to melt a metal wire, depositing layers of melted metal on top of each other to create 3D shapes.

Many sector use WAAM, including energy, defence, automotive, construction and aerospace, to produce large and complex structural components. The process reduces the need for assembly and joining technologies, as well as waste material. Moreover, WAAM has been deployed for repair and remanufacturing purposes in aerospace, saving time and costs. It also has the advantage of greater supply chain flexibility, enabling on-demand production in small quantities.
For further information www.bit.ly/46MBcBR

In-Comm Training wins £429,000 funding

An independent UK training provider has secured a £429,000 boost for delivering advanced engineering and manufacturing skills.In-Comm Training, which already supports 865 apprentices and over 2500 learners, has been awarded ‘Higher Level Skills’ funding by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in a bid to help industry bridge the skills and competency gaps.

Accessed via the Training & Manufacturing Group (TMG), up to 126 learners in the WMCA area will be able to tap into modularised units for the first time, giving existing workers the most flexible opportunity yet to upskill.These bespoke courses will take place at technical academies in Aldridge and Telford, giving individuals the opportunity to study specific modules of the Level 3-5 Engineering & Management programmes tailored to ensure job progression and sustainable employment.
For further informationwww.bit.ly/3tJgdkD

Okuma to hold open house in November

This year marks the 125th anniversary of Japanese machine tool manufacturer Okuma, as well as the 60th birthday of its in-house manufactured CNC system, OSP. In celebration of these milestones, an open house will take place at the group’s European headquarters in Krefeld, Germany on 21-23 November. The company will also provide guided tours in English and German, live machining sessions and new equipment presentations. Anyone wishing to attend the free event can register at the web address below. NCMT is the sole sales and service agent for Okuma in the UK and Ireland.
For further information https://openhouse2023.okuma.eu

Automated machining in action

Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of DN Solutions and Zayer machine tools in the UK, and a supplier of advanced automation systems, will showcase a SYNERGi Premier automated manufacturing cell at the three-day FANUCopen house taking place in Coventryon 14-16 November.

The cellwill comprise: a compact 8”chuck/65mm bar diameter DN Solutions Lynx 2100LSYB sub-spindle turning centre with driven tools and Y-axis capabilities; a FANUCsix-axis industrial robot with 25kg payload and end-of-arm tooling; a SYNERGi Premier five-drawer (two-way) part loading/unloading station; and a 17” touchscreen iHMI. Mills CNC will demonstrate the significant productivity and process efficiency gains component manufacturers can expect to achieve from investing in a tried and tested automation solution.
Register at https://ukopenhouse.fanuc.eu

Trumpf 3D printers at Airbus Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters will use 3D printers from Trumpf to manufacture components for its helicopters, as well as for aircraft from parent company Airbus. The company is expanding its additive manufacturing capabilities with a new 3D printing centre in Donauwörth, Germany, with Trumpf supplying machines for the 3D printing ofstructural components made from titanium and high-strength aluminium.

“With innovative manufacturing processes, we are working on the helicopters of the future in Donauwörth,” states site manager Helmut Färber.“Among other things, 3D printing reduces the weight of components, which helps aircraft operators cut fuel consumption and lower costs. It can also help reduce CO2 emissions in flight. We’ll use the 3D printing process to produce components for the electric-powered CityAirbus, the experimental high-speed Racer helicopter and the Airbus A350 and A320 passenger aircraft, among others.”
For further information www.trumpf.com