THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

Mazak open house draws over 500 visitors

Over 500 manufacturing professionals visited Yamazaki Mazak’s open house in Worcester last month as the machine tool builder recorded strong interest in its latest UK-made models, such as the Integrex j-200 NEO multi-tasking turn-mill machine and the next-generation CV5 five-axis machining centre. The three-day event included over 19 live-cutting demonstrations. Visitors were also invited to take part in dedicated ‘Technology Tours’.

Alan Mucklow, UK managing director, said: “My key takeaway is that there’s strong appetite for investment and that manufacturers are ready to turn to technology as they seek higher productivity. This sentiment has been backed up by a high level of post-event interest, especially in our UK-made machines. This feedback vindicates our strategic decision to enhance further the capability and range of models manufactured here in Worcester.”

More information www.mazak.com

Doncasters investing $52m in German plant

Doncasters, an international manufacturer of high-precision alloy components made for the most demanding conditions, will invest $52m in its Bochum, Germany site, representing one of the most significant capital programmes in the company’s history. Doncasters says the three-year initiative will establish Bochum as one of the world’s most advanced facilities with the capability of producing the most complex large industrial gas turbine castings in production today, while also supporting capacity growth and long-term development. Work has already commenced inside the factory to prepare for new state-of-the-art equipment.

More information www.doncasters.com

EMO show to remain in Hanover

EMO, the world’s leading trade fair for production technology, is set to remain in Hanover following rumours about a potential move elsewhere in Germany. Says EMO general commissioner Carl Martin Welcker: “We were convinced by the commitment of the Lower Saxon policymakers to develop the structural and technical infrastructure of the exhibition centre on an ongoing basis over the coming years.”

In consultation with European association Cecimo, owner of the EMO brand, and with Italian sister association Ucimu, organizer of the EMO in Milan, the VDW has agreed the locations of the EMO cycle until 2031. The trade fair will take place in Milan in 2027, Hanover in 2029 and Milan again in 2031. “After that, we’ll return to the tried and tested cycle,” confirms Welcker. 

More information https://emo-hannover.de/en

Kyocera SGS to relocate European HQ

Kyocera SGS Precision Tools Europe (KSPTE) is relocating its European Headquarters from Wokingham, Berkshire, to the Kyocera Unimerco facility in Fradley, Staffordshire. The move will strengthen Kyocera’s European manufacturing and R&D capabilities, enhance operational efficiency, and reinforce the company’s commitment to providing value and service to customers across the region.

The relocation will create Kyocera’s largest carbide tool manufacturing site in Europe, establishing Fradley as the new European base for KSPTE. Customer benefits include centralised logistics, expanded R&D facilities, increased production capacity and lifecycle tooling support. Both KSPTE and Kyocera Unimerco will continue to operate independently while sharing infrastructure, technical collaboration and operational efficiencies.

More information https://kyocera-sgstool.co.uk

Twisted Acquires Carbon-Fibre Specialist

Twisted has acquired KS Composites, a Melton Mowbray-based engineering and composites specialist. The acquisition brings world-class carbon-fibre capability into the Twisted group, strengthening its engineering solutions, accelerating innovation, and securing supply for the next generation of Twisted vehicles and marine products.

It has been a significant five years for the Yorkshire company, best known for its classic Land Rover Defender ‘restomods’. Twisted has entered the premium marine sector, established a Special Projects division, expanded internationally, and this year launched the new T-Bug – a modern recreation of the classic Baja Bug. The addition of KS Composites is the latest step in a strong phase of growth. 

More information www.twisted.co