UK NEWS

Lord Harrington is new Make UK chair

Lord Richard Harrington will become the new chair of Make UK, succeeding Lord John
Hutton, who has chaired the organisation since 2022. With a distinguished career in both
business and government, Lord Harrington brings a wealth of experience and a deep
commitment to the manufacturing sector. He will officially take on the role early this year.
“I’m delighted to take up this appointment at such an important moment for
manufacturing,” he says. “I’m passionate about the sector and its contribution to the overall
UK economy, and how it will help address the societal challenges we all face.” Make UK
chief executive Stephen Phipson adds: “Richard is a committed and passionate supporter of
manufacturing and its importance to the economy and regions across the UK.”
More information www.makeuk.org

Fabweld Steel installs Accurl laser cutter

Shropshire-based Fabweld Steel Products (FSP) has bought a 15 kW Accurl fibre laser cutter
to increase its production capacity and scope to boost growth. The new machine replaces
the firm’s 3 kW fibre laser, which handled 95% of products at the Telford factory.
“Going forward, the increased speed, capability and capacity will quickly put us on an
upward trajectory towards our full potential,” says FSP managing director Wayne Carter.
The process to decommission the 3 kW laser, remove it, install and commission the Accurl,
train staff and get up to full production capability, was completed at the end of October.
Milton Keynes based Axe and Status Machinery supplied the new Accurl laser. Managing
director Steve Thomas says: “Our objective is to supply quality and reliability at a
competitive price, which allows customers to remain competitive. We have enjoyed a long-
standing relationship with FSP and are pleased to be part of their ongoing expansion plans.”
FSP specialises in the design and manufacture of access covers and other fabricated steel
products for the construction industry, including non-structural and structural applications.
The company is an accredited Real Living Wage employer and is committed to improving
sustainability by investing in green technologies. For instance, a large solar panel system
now powers the factory and the firm’s nitrogen generator. Also in place is a double-fast
electric vehicle charging system, which is available for community use when the factory is
not open at weekends.
More information www.axestatus.com

RAeS Team Gold winner

The team behind Rolls-Royce’s UltraFan has been awarded a Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) Team Gold Medal for its contribution to the advancement of aerospace engineering.

With its 3.556 m fan diameter, UltraFan is the world’s largest demonstrator aero engine, containing a suite of scalable new technologies that deliver greater fuel efficiency. By enabling lower emissions and advancing sustainable practices, UltraFan contributes significantly to the aerospace industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The demonstrator was successfully tested using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

More information www.rolls-royce.com

Casting accolade for Magna Cosma

A Telford-based automotive specialist, which has seen domestic and global sales rise significantly, has been named as the ‘Best of British Casting Company’ at the recent UK Cast Metals Industry Awards organised by the Cast Metals Federation (CMF). Magna Cosma Casting UK defied uncertainty in the sector to post one of the best years in its history, impressing judges with the way it has developed a high-pressure die casting digital twin.

The company’s approach has seen it boost the workforce by 40% – critical in supporting the production of large structural body and chassis castings. There were also major accolades for Kent’s Maybrey Precision Castings and the Black Country’s Newby Foundries (joint Component of the Year winners), with Goodwin Steel Castings claiming the Innovation title.

More information www.castmetalsfederation.com

Sellafield calls for applications

Applications are now open for the 2025 apprenticeship scheme at Sellafield Ltd. With both apprenticeships and degree schemes available covering a wide range of disciplines from mechanical engineering to nuclear operations, opportunities are offered in both Cumbria and Warrington.

Sellafield says the positions provide first-class training supported by on-the-job learning, ensuring apprentices are well-equipped for their future careers. All apprentices have the chance to pursue a qualification relevant to their chosen field by studying with selected high-level training providers across the country. The duration of each programme varies from 2 to 4 years. There is no upper age limit for applicants.

More information www.bit.ly/4faPkIr