XYZ Machine Tools has announced the appointment of Mark Chappell to the role of mechanical engineering manager, where he will be responsible for process and product development involving internal procedures and working closely with XYZ’s network of suppliers. He will also work with machine suppliers to develop products and drive continuous improvement, which will lead to benefits for XYZ customers through cost-down initiatives.

Chappell brings with him experience gained working both in industry and academia, spending 11 years at Renishaw, where he held production engineering and customer training positions. He ultimately managed the Renishaw subsidiary in India, where he undertook sales and service related roles. Most recently Chappell worked at the University of Bath on aerospace engineering projects, acting as an interface between various academic and industrial partners.
For further information www.xyzmachinetools.com

The New Year at specialist engineering steel supplier Hillfoot has seen three experienced team members – Craig James, Simon Taylor and Kasia Jesiolek – take on new management roles.

James becomes Hillfoot’s managing director, continuing his long association with the company, while Taylor, another long-serving member of the team, is promoted to the position of executive director. Jesiolek has stepped up to become the new technical and quality manager at the Sheffield-based company.
For further information www.hillfoot.com

Rosti Automotive, a tier one supplier to the automotive industry, was experiencing pressure on its existing supply chain following a large contract win.

Consequently, the company enlisted Optimas Solutions, a distributor and service provider of fasteners and C-class components, to simplify and manage the supply chain at its facilities in Stamford Bridge and Pickering. The initial proposal forwarded by Optimas provided one point of contact for all of Rosti Automotive’s component concerns, while also delivering the parts required. By simplifying the supply chain and creating a centralised point of contact, efficiency was increased from both a component specification
and logistics standpoint.
For further information www.optimas.com

The first Prima Power machine sold in the UK featuring the company’s own laser source, an advanced Rapido 3D laser cutter, was recently installed, along with
a 2 m Prima Power brake press, at the premises of fabrication services provider PAB Coventry. In addition to manufacturing parts such as panels, grilles, trim, instrumentation and brackets to prestige and supercar manufacturers, the company also supplies the aerospace, defence and rail sectors with components
like pressings, brackets and welded assemblies.

Explaining the reasons behind the company’s latest Prima Power purchase, PAB Coventry CEO Mark Brazier says: “The recent installation of the new Prima Power Rapido fibre 3D laser-cutting machine marks the final piece in our three-year, £3m expansion programme. Due to the growth of our business and continued loyalty to the brand, I believe that we are now the UK’s largest user of Prima Power machines. In addition to the machines’ precision and efficiency, as Prima Power’s product range covers all aspects of sheet metal working, including laser cutting, welding, punching and bending, it helps that the common software and operating systems provide flexibility.”
With X, Y, and Z-axis strokes of 4080, 1530 and 765 mm, the Prima Power Rapido 3D laser cutter is based on a synthetic granite frame designed using topology optimisation methods to ensure smooth movements at high dynamics. User accessibility is provided thanks to the machine’s overhead retractable arm and cantilever structure arrangement. A focusing head with direct drives and transducers delivers high dynamics, zero backlash and reduced maintenance needs.
For further information www.primapower.com