TRB Lightweight Structures (TRB) has created a new production process to deliver continuous-fibre thermoset composite parts at high volume. TRB’s process combines proprietary snap-cure resins and in-house produced prepreg materials with state-of-the-art robotic manufacturing to generate high-specification, ready-to-ship thermoset parts in just minutes. This automated process is already being used to supply a global tier-one powertrain manufacturer with critical battery components destined for electric buses.

For further information www.trbls.com

Yamazaki Mazak UK has reaffirmed its commitment to the future of British manufacturing by welcoming 17 new apprentices. The class of 2020’s apprenticeship journey began at the Worcestershire Group Training Association’s (WGTA) training centre last month, where they started learning the skills crucial to their future CNC machining, electrical, mechanical and sheet-metalworking roles.

The 17 apprentices accepted on to the scheme are studying in socially distanced classrooms, in adherence with coronavirus-related restrictions. They will eventually move to work across multiple departments at Mazak’s European headquarters in Worcester, as part of the company’s commitment to providing a combination of hands-on training and college-based learning. All apprentices will complete an accredited apprenticeship pathway to Level 3, with the option for some students to complete a further top-up to HNC/D level.

For further information www.mazakeu.co.uk

Leyland Trucks has completed the build of its 100,000th DAF CF/XF truck: a CF 530 ‘FAT’ 6×4 drawbar chassis. The truck is part of a batch of four vehicles ordered by DAF Trucks Australia and is shortly to be exported after it was specified for the country’s fuel tanker market. The Leyland production facility has been producing DAF-branded commercial vehicles since the late eighties. Nowadays, Leyland Trucks builds the full range of DAF LF, CF and XF chassis in any configuration.

“This 100,000th CF and XF model produced at the Leyland assembly plant is a hugely significant milestone for Leyland Trucks,” says managing director Brennan Gourdie. “There is a proud heritage of truck building in the UK and at Leyland, culminating with the production of the current DAF line-up. Reaching 100,000 CF and XF chassis is a landmark moment representing an exceptional commitment from everyone here at Leyland and the wider DAF organisation.”

For further information
www.leylandtrucksltd.co.uk

Houghton International has officially moved premises and is now fully operational at the Ronnie Mitten Works site on Shields Road in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The company has consolidated its existing sites into 120,000 sq ft of engineering space at the CA Parsons Works in Heaton, the birthplace of the steam turbine (alongside Houghton’s existing pump repair facility). The new site will enable the company to be more efficient and flexible, while simultaneously creating significant space for future growth. Houghton has retained its existing large machine facility on Shields Road, which is adjacent to its new workshop.

For further information
www.houghton-international.com

Following a free R&D intervention by the University of Sheffield’s AMRC, a precision engineering SME has been shown how an investment of just £20 could bring about a huge improvement in its manufacturing process and unlock significant savings. The AMRC was able to show management at Chesterfield-based subcontractor CBE+ that with a new tool holder, which would cost £60 rather than the £40 one currently in use, it could attain a 10-15% improvement in tool life. Funds from the HVM Catapult paid for the project as part of a commitment to working with SME manufacturers.

For further information
www.amrc.co.uk