UK NEWS

TLM Lasers renews MAA membership

TLM Lasers has renewedits membership with the Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA). The company has been a member of the MAA for several years,throughout whichtime it has witnessed substantial benefits. TLM Lasers’ participation in MAA events, seminars and workshops has not only expanded its network, but also deepened its understanding of the latest trends and technologies shaping the aerospace industry. 

Renewing its membership reaffirms the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the aerospace sector. TLM Laser is eager to continue leveraging the vast array of resources and support provided by the MAA, which have been instrumental in the company’s growth and success as a provider of laser solutions for aerospace manufacturing across the UK.

As TLM Laser looks towards the future, the company is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. The aerospace industry is poised for rapid expansion, and with the continued support of the MAA, TLM Laser says it is well-positioned to contribute to this progress while maintaining its reputation for quality and innovation.

The company extends its gratitude to the MAA for its support and looks forward to many more years of successful collaboration. Together, the two organisations will continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in aerospace manufacturing.

The MAA provides its members with a wealth of resources and opportunities that are crucial for business development and innovation. For instance, the MAA organises over 20 events annually, including seminars, workshops and networking sessions. These events have allowed TLM Laser to connect with potential customers, suppliers and partners, fostering valuable business relationships.

More information www.tlm-laser.com

UK reseller for digital twin tech

Manchester Metrology is now an official Matterport UK reseller, bringing digital twin
technology to businesses across a wide range of industries. Matterport’s innovative reality
capture solutions allow companies to create precise interactive 3D models of physical
spaces. A stand-out application of this technology is the creation of digital twins for laying
out production floors. These highly detailed interactive 3D models offer businesses control
over their production environments, enabling analysis and optimisation without any need
for physical presence on-site.
More information www.manchester-metrology.co.uk

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