UK NEWS

Production starts at new Schneider plant

Schneider Electric, a global specialist the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has officially opened its new state-of-the-art smart plant in Scarborough, with full site commissioning targeted by year end. UK production means faster, more flexible delivery of bespoke engineering solutions, tailored to the unique needs of UK projects. Customers can visit the Scarborough site, collaborate directly with product designers and engineers, and ensure products fully meet their needs before moving into production. The UK site will produce equipment to meet British standards.

More information www.se.com   

Over 1000 Machine Shops Use CAM Assist

CloudNC says over 1000 machine shops and machinists worldwide now use the CAM Assist’s AI to accelerate the programming of CNC machines, making them more efficient. CloudNC is marking the milestone by launching CAM Assist 2.0, a major upgrade to its AI solution that accelerates the CAM programming journey from CAD model to machine‑ready tool paths, while giving users more control over each step.

CAM Assist 2.0 retains the speed of CAM Assist, while adding the oversight, feedback and shared intelligence elements that machine shops need in order to use AI with confidence.

Programmers using CAM Assist can now stay firmly in control of every critical decision, while still saving hours as they turn CAD models into reliable toolpaths.

More information www.cloudnc.com

Made in Britain to Tour National Events

Made in Britain is standing up for excellence in British manufacturing this autumn at some of the UK’s most influential events, including the Advanced Engineering Show (29-30 October, NEC Birmingham). The not-for-profit organisation will use each stage to amplify the voices and impact of its more than 2200 members – and show just how far the Made in Britain mark can take a UK business. John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, says: “We’re making sure British manufacturers are seen, recognised and valued for the great products they make and the impact they have on society.”

More information www.madeinbritain.org

Pre-Met Invests £0.5m in QSP Relocation

Pre-Met has invested £500,000 into relocating the operations and welding technology of Quality Springs & Pressings (QSP) – a business it bought at the start of January. The metal pressings and stamping specialist has upgraded factory-wide electrical supply, freed-up 10,000 ft² of production space and created dedicated welding bays to support new opportunities in defence, aerospace and transportation.


All staff members are now operational at the firm’s Studley Road factory in Redditch, with the management team keen to use the acquisition to capitalise on enhanced wire form and spring manufacturing expertise, as well as embedding robotic welding and assemblies into its overall service offer. Four new jobs have been created, and this number could increase.

More information www.metalpressingsandstampings.co.uk

Bowers releases BT caliper and Connect software

Bowers Group has unveiled its latest advancement in connected metrology, launching the new Bowers BT 150 mm caliper and the Bowers Connect software, compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled products and the wider Sylvac range. Together, this smart, integrated solution empowers manufacturers to take full control of their measurement data, streamline inspection processes and boost productivity across the shop floor.

The Bowers BT caliper is the newest addition to the company’s expanding range of connected metrology tools. Rated to IP67 for dust and water resistance, the caliper combines durability with Bluetooth wireless technology, allowing connectivity to IoT systems and devices. Its extra-large digital display, programmable functions, and robust construction make it suitable for both workshop and inspection lab use.

Complementing the hardware is Bowers Connect, a versatile and user-friendly software platform that transforms how inspection data is captured, monitored and managed. Compatible with up to 500 instruments, including those connected via USB, Bluetooth, or M-BUS, the software enables real-time insights, guided inspections and full traceability – all from one centralised system.

With features such as pass/fail tolerance displays, drawing uploads and step-by-step inspection workflows, Bowers Connect empowers teams to reduce errors, eliminate manual data entry and improve decision-making. Designed to be a cost-effective alternative to large-scale QMS solutions, it brings advanced capabilities within reach of small and medium manufacturers, reports Bowers.

As quality demands grow across all sectors, Bowers says the launch of the BT caliper and Connect software marks a significant step forward in connected metrology -delivering efficiency, connectivity and accuracy when it matters most.

More information www.bowersgroup.co.uk