UK NEWS

Cranfield joins major innovation cluster

Cranfield University has become part of an industry innovation cluster which aims to address the complex challenges of the future of flight through close collaborative work.

The European Technology Development Clusters (E-TDCs) established by Avio Aero bring together prestigious universities, research centres and SMEs, and Cranfield is now a partner in the research framework. The partnership combines industry awareness of market needs and technology excellence, with Cranfield’s expertise and academic capabilities in manufacturing and materials.

More information www.cranfield.ac.uk

CPE wins £85m Rolls-Royce contract

Rolls-Royce has awarded Glasgow-based Castle Precision Engineering with a contract worth more than £85m for the manufacture and supply of precision-machined rotating aero engine parts. The new agreement, which was endorsed by the UK Government’s Scottish Secretary and runs through to the second half of the decade, continues a 40-year relationship with the firm. Formalising the continuation of the long-standing relationship with Castle Precision Engineering, reiterates the commitment of Rolls-Royce to the UK supply chain and UK skills.

More information www.rolls-royce.com

Two key promotions at Mills CNC

Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of Zayer machine tools from DN Solutions and Zayer in the UK and Ireland, has strengthened its management team through the promotion of two existing members of staff to director positions. Both appointments become effective from 1 August 2024.

Richard Wilson (pictured), current business manager for the West Midlands, Wiltshire and home counties region, has become Mills’ new sales director. This company-wide role will see Wilson assume responsibility for the strategic planning, co-ordination and implementation of the company’s UK sales operations. The second appointment sees Craig Clarke, Mills’ existing operations manager, promoted to operations director.

More information www.millscnc.co.uk

Nick Peter retires from Hainbuch UK

After 16 years of dedicated service, Nick Peter has retired from work-holding specialist Hainbuch UK Ltd. As the general manager of the UK subsidiary, Peter has been instrumental in the growth and success of the company during his tenure. Stepping down from his role, Dave Thompsell is now in place as the new manager. With over 35 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, Thompsell brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. He pledges to uphold the quality and standards established by Peter and to continue the company’s success.

More information www.hainbuch.com

Understanding bandsaw down-feed systems

When delving into the world of bandsaw machinery, a fundamental aspect to grasp is the relationship between the saw bow’s descent speed, the applied pressure and the resistance offered by the workpiece. This understanding is crucial for optimal operation and precise cutting, as a guide produced by Saws UK sets out.

Investing in a high-end bandsaw brings notable advantages, especially with sophisticated down-feed systems designed to fully harness the capabilities of the latest bi-metal and carbide-tipped blades. These enhancements substantially boost productivity. 

Down-feed regulation systems in bandsaws vary significantly. Some are straightforward, featuring an adjustable hydraulic valve in the guide system that responds to material resistance. More advanced systems include load detection on the blade drive motor, integrating an interface with a proportional down-feed valve in the hydraulics. Additionally, some machines employ a ball screw system connected to the interface for down-feed control. 

A pivotal feature in some bandsaws is blade deflection detection. This technology automatically slows the down feed to prevent crooked cuts when the blade begins to dull towards the end of its lifespan. 

Modern control systems often include a material directory, enabling operators to set reasonable down-feed rates based on workpiece size. However, this requires accurate data input and may not account for the annealed state of the material, where load detection systems can provide additional guidance during challenging cuts. 

The question arises: can a company justify spending up to £100,000 more for a bandsaw that fundamentally performs the same task? The answer lies in evaluating several factors, including expected service life, precision of cut, ease of use and speed of cut. Saws UK can provide advice in line with customer-specific applications.

More information www.sawsuk.com