UK NEWS

DEEP And Fortius Begin WAAM Development Project

Bristol-based DEEP Manufacturing and US-headquartered Fortius Metals have commenced work on a multi-material cylinder produced using a synchronised multi-robot Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) system. The project combines DEEP Manufacturing’s large-scale multi-robot AM capability with Fortius’s expertise in thermal simulation and advanced wire development. Together, the teams are validating a multi-material build strategy for a US-based end user. The project will explore what becomes possible from integrating simulation, wire development and industrial-scale WAAM into a single workflow.

More information www.deepmanufacturing.com

Unison Expands MadeTto-Order Bend-Tool Service

Already providing one of the tube-bending sector’s most comprehensive consumable and precision bend tooling manufacturing and stockholding services, UK-based Unison Ltd is planning to expand its specialist, made-to-order tooling capability. Typically, the service involves helping customers develop tooling for new tubular products, assisting where tooling is required for challenging new applications, replacing worn tooling and the bespoke manufacture of tooling for straightforward tube bending tasks.

Although Unison Ltd recognises that its made-to-order tooling service will always be a niche offering, unlike its regular bend tooling service which serves more than 20 countries globally, the UK business believes it’s an important addition to its overall customer support package.

More information www.unisonltd.com

45% Growth At Chemical Etching Specialist

Chemical etching specialist Precision Micro has seen semiconductor-related revenue rise by 43% over the past year, with these applications now accounting for around half of the company’s total revenue. As investment in AI, high-performance computing and advanced semiconductor manufacturing accelerates, demand for precision-etched metal components is placing increasing pressure on specialist manufacturing capacity. Precision Micro has secured multiple six-figure orders this year to manufacture ultra-precise metal components used throughout semiconductor production and thermal management systems.

More information www.precisionmicro.com

Defence Agreement

ADS, the trade association representing the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, and the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies (SJAC), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen co-operation between the UK and Japanese defence industries. The agreement establishes a framework for closer collaboration between ADS and SJAC, supporting the development of joint initiatives and creating new opportunities for businesses operating across both markets.

More information www.adsgroup.org.uk

Farnborough Delivers Landmark Week For Aerospace

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 convened the world of aerospace, defence and space to shape the future of flight. The show welcomed 141,580 trade and public visitors, a notable show-on-show increase of 41% and nearly double 2022’s attendance, providing the stage for commercial deals worth over $84.7bn. Across five days, leaders from government, manufacturers, investors, start-ups, academia, media and future talent from 136 countries gathered at the birthplace of British Aviation. Farnborough International Airshow will return to the industry calendar on 17-21 July 2028.

More information www.farnboroughairshow.com