Smartflow expands

Couplings manufacturer Smartflow has expanded its production capacity by moving to a new larger facility in Grimsby as it prepares to step up the manufacture of its new dry-break couplings. The production facility at Grimsby Enterprise Village will replace the company’s previous plant in Scunthorpe, giving more space for stock and parts ahead of launching the new fluid-transfer couplings, which aim to drive safety and sustainability in the oil, gas and chemical sectors. Some £173,000 of funding from Innovate UK helped Smartflow to develop the new devices.

For further information
www.smartflowcouplings.com

ASG strengthens portfolio

Aero Services Global Group (ASG) has acquired one of Liverpool’s oldest surface-treatment specialists and is now looking to maximise its new ‘one-stop’ capability with aerospace clients across the world. The Manchester-based Group, which is run by Simon Weston and backed by Amin Amiri of a2e Industries, has purchased King & Fowler in a deal that will safeguard all 59 jobs and signal a new investment drive in processes and plant at its Liverpool factory. According to ASG, the move will enhance the group’s operating efficiencies and provide access to an extended blue-chip client base.

For further information
www.asg-group.co

A deal made in Sheffield

Castings Technology International Ltd (CTI), a world leader in its field, is poised for significant growth following a management buy-out from the University of Sheffield, which will take the company to its next phase of growth. The company has also completed a £2m fundraising round backed by Mercia Asset Management, via the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund and Nucleus Commercial Finance. Yorkshire-based deal-making firm, Castle Square Corporate Finance, provided advice on the transaction and ran the fundraising process.

For further information
www.castlesquarecf.co.uk

Robot aids 3D printing of boat hull

A robot cell installed by CNC Robotics at Autodesk’s Advanced Design & Manufacturing Facility in Birmingham has been busy producing part of the hull for a 3D-printed boat. With a striking design that includes wave-inspired sides and a fin-like form that tapers toward the stern, MAMBO (motor additive manufacturing boat) is a boat like no other, both in its distinctive looks and its use of fibre-reinforced plastic by 3D printing.

Milan-based Moi Composites collaborated on the design of the boat with Autodesk, which provided its Fusion 360 and Netfabb software. Construction of various hull sections took place in both Birmingham and Milan using continuous-fibre manufacturing with robots on both sites. The 3D printing process gives greater durability and performance, while also saving material.

For further information www.cncrobotics.co.uk

AWI promotes trio to board of directors

A UK manufacturer of round, flat and profile wire has strengthened its senior management team (SMT) with three key appointments. Alloy Wire International, which celebrates 75 years of manufacturing in 2021, has promoted Tom Mander, Andrew Du Plessis and Adam Shaw as managing director designate, technical director and finance director, respectively. The trio will work with the current SMT to help the company in its next stage of development as it looks to maximise a £3m investment in material, drawing machines, spooling equipment and office/factory improvements.

For further information www.alloywire.com