Panel & Joinery Production - March/April 2015

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CONTENTS

& JOINERY

PRODUCTION March/April Issue 2015 Published by:

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The Homag Group will again be the focal point for visitors to the 2015 Ligna exhibition in Hanover, Germany, May 11th – 15th.

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CONTENTS 2 2 6 8-9 10-11 18-19 20 22-23 28 37 38 40 41 42-43 44-45 46 49 50-51

News 100th Milestone For Wadkin Manufacturing Combilift Announces €40 Million Investment The Homag Group – Leading The Field At Ligna 2015 SCM Group’s Huge Presence at Ligna 2015 Alphacam Helps CNC World Diversify Into Wood Cutting Format 4 Commissions It’s 30,000th Machine Homag UK Smoothes The Flow For Bluespot Furniture IDS Announces An Exclusive Distribution Agreement Striebig Takes Centre Stage At Royal Shakespeare Company Gibraltar Joinery Look To The UK Blind Test Victory for Kündig Sliding Into 2015 With Glidor SCM Group’s ‘Technology Days’ A Resounding Success Bütfering SWT 345 Sander For Peter Thompson Vollmer Launches New Circular Grinding Saw Machine When Pre-Owned Can Be As Good As New All Round Savings For Roundel See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

FEATURES 7-11 12-19 24-29 36-38 48-52 IBC

LIGNA PREVIEWS SOFTWARE DECORATIVE SURFACES & EDGINGS SAWS DUST EXTRACTION & WOODWASTE UTILISATION WEBSITE DIRECTORY MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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NEWS Blum Wins Prestigious if Design Award World leading fittings manufacturer Blum has been awarded the prestigious and coveted iF Design Award for their innovative product Tip-On Blumotion incorporated in their flagship Legrabox drawer box product.

Tip-On Blumotion is a fitting that combines one-touch opening with soft and effortless closing. Handle-less pull-outs and drawers open with ease thanks to the mechanical opening support system and closes again with the unique integrated Blumotion allowing a feather light movement for perfect soft close.

Incorporated in the cutting edge design of the sleek Legrabox design, Tip-On Blumotion adds to the entire pleasure of usage in the kitchen, bathroom or living room.

The innovative Blum product won the iF Award as much for its functionality as for its engineering solution to a particular problem – previously the controlled soft close of the Blumotion component prevented the Tip-On mechanism from re-engaging in readiness for the next required opening. Blum engineers have solved this with some highly inventive engineering and design.

The award winning Tip-On Blumotion Legrabox

For further information: Tel: 01908 285700 Email: info.uk@blum.com www.blum.com

100 Milestone For Wadkin Manufacturing Daltons Wadkin notches up its 100th new Wadkin machine When woodworking machinery specialists A L Dalton Ltd purchased the Wadkin name, IPR and manufacturing rights the decision was taken to manufacture a number of the wellestablished Wadkin Classical designs at their Nottingham headquarters. The company already had extensive engineering facilities due to their long involvement in the rebuilding and servicing of woodworking machines but manufacturing was a new concept.

The company are now able to chalk up a small but significant anniversary however in producing their 100th machine which has turned out to be a model BRA350 Radial Arm Crosscut Saw together with an AGS300 Tilt Arbor Sawbench for delivery to Jersey Airport.

Francis Dalton commented, “It is nice to get to our first 100. Of course these quantities are very small compared with the larger manufacturers in Europe and the Far East but there seems to be a continuing demand for high quality UK manufactured machines with a still strong Wadkin pedigree. We are manufacturing the original designs with some modifications where necessary in connection with current Health and Safety requirements. Models include Radial Arm Crosscuts, Tilt Arbor Sawbenches, Vibratory Head Chisel Mortisers, Bandsaws, Band Resaws, Spindle Moulders and Lathes. We also manufacture the well established range of Phillipson Disc, Belt and Contour Sanding Machines which again are built to the original heavy duty designs using largely cast iron components and supplied to a diverse range of industries.”

Amongst a varied list of customers for new Wadkin machines manufactured at the Daltons Wadkin workshops are technical

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colleges, ministry departments, power suppliers, prisons, formula one racing teams, aerospace industries and motor manufacturers, as well as of course furniture, joinery and timber companies. The machines are finished in a new green and white livery and importantly carry a two-year warranty.

The 100th new machine from the Wadkin manufacturing base at Daltons Wadkin

For further information: Tel: 0115 986 5201 www.daltonswadkin.com

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PEOPLE New Area Sales Manager at SCM Group UK After an excellent level of sales in the UK in 2014, the SCM Group are adding a further Area Sales Manager, Lee Gibson, to their direct sales team due to an increasing level of enquiries and orders for their wide range of woodworking and panel processing machines.

Lee, 48 years old, has a wide range of experience and is a time served wood machinist and has worked in sales at two UK Tooling suppliers followed by a period at a rival machinery supplier.

Residing in the Manchester area, Lee will cover the North West area including Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Lancashire, Cumbria, plus Scotland and parts of the North East.

Lee comments "I am thrilled to have joined the UK's leading supplier of machinery with the greatest range of woodworking and panel processing machines including CNC Machining Centres, Beam Saws, Edge Banders, Wide Belt Sanders and Planer Moulders in my portfolio."

For further information: Tel: 0115 9770044 Email: scmgroupuk@scmgroup.com www.scmgroup-uk.com

Behind The Scenes Of The UK’s Leading Furniture Technology Centre If you are a part of the furniture industry or you work with companies within it, don’t miss the opportunity to understand more about how industry standards are set, be confident that you are complying with relevant legislation and witness first-hand how furniture is tested and repaired.

With limited spaces available, book your place to attend an Open Day at the Hertfordshire headquarters of the UK’s largest furniture association and leading furniture technology centre.

FIRA International and the Furniture Industry Research Association will be welcoming visitors on Thursday 21st May 2015.

The events will include a brief update on the flammability regulations and delegates will have the opportunity to get involved in an interactive furniture repair demonstration.

To book a place or for further information please contact Chrissie Winsor: Tel:01438 777 700 Email: cwinsor@fira.co.uk See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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PROFILE

Titanic Leap For Elcon Dutch manufacturers take Vertical Panel Saws to a new level State of the art Panel Saw manufacturers Elcon have long been at the forefront when it comes to advanced technology, construction and design. They were the first company to produce a fully programmable automatic machine, ie the Quadra model, which is a virtual Beam Saw in the vertical plane incorporating a host of features designed to enhance ease of operation and performance.

Once again leading from the front the Dutch Panel Saw specialists have broken new ground with their new DSD Titan model which uniquely will cut up to 150 mm deep as well as accommodating sheet materials of almost any size. This makes the machine ideal for sandwich panels made up of composite materials which could include wood, plastic, aluminium or even steel.

Alternatively the Titan provides the capacity for cutting solid timber sections up to 150 mm in thickness and indeed UK distributors Daltons Wadkin have recently taken an order for a machine which will be used for cutting timber for use in the construction of log cabins.

Daltons Wadkin Sales Director Andy Walsh is very enthusiastic about this outstanding development from Elcon, “The Titan is a unique machine with a performance and capacity unmatched by any competitor worldwide,” he says. We are used to seeing Elcon at the forefront of technology and their strength and build quality is outstanding but this machine opens up whole new markets for vertical sawing.”

The Elcon DSD Titan contains unique user characteristics. To provide the increased cutting capacity the guidance system is based upon a double column construction with heavy duty bearing blocks. As standard it is equipped with a powerful 5.5 kW (7.5 HP) motor (with optional 7.5 kW, 10 HP S6) and pneumatic rotation of the saw head for ease of operation.

Pieter Meijer MD at Elcon explained the background to the development of this machine: “Panel cutting requirements today

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Out in front ... the unique deep cutting Elcon Titan

often exceed the standard 60mm or 80mm capacity offered by most vertical panel saw manufacturers. There is an increasing demand for thicker panel materials of 100mm, 120mm, 135mm and even 150mm used in industry – particularly the sandwich panels which generally comprise of a combination of differing materials, such as a soft inner core and an external cladding of wood, plastic, aluminium or even steel. We at Elcon have recognised this need and subsequently designed cutting solutions for these thicker panels to suit a wide range of industries. The efforts of our engineering department have resulted in the introduction of a new model within the wide range of Elcon vertical panel saws – the DSD Titan.”

A number of optional features are available to refine the machine to bespoke user requirements. Amongst these is a specially

designed saw guard to protect even very sensitive top layers of panels, automatic panel detection to prevent damaging the panel edges and a laser line indicator to show the saw cutting line.

Also variable feed speed to allow adaption for optimal cutting, automatic cutting cycle for both vertical and horizontal axis, adjustable stroke length and touch screen control for clear selection of functions and precise operation.

For further technical information and opportunities to view this revolutionary new Panel Saw visit the Daltons Wadkin website (www.daltonswadkin.com) or contact the sales team on 0115 986 5201

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PROFILE Award-Winning Sensys Gives Hettich the Edge The new thick-door and wide-angle variants of Hettich’s Sensys hinges offer visible and functional advantages for the latest cabinetry designs, which can easily be demonstrated to consumers.

These iF Product Design Award winners are now available in the UK. The thick-door and wide angle hinges allow all the Sensys benefits on doors up to 32 mm thick. But they achieve this with a mere 1.9mm gap between doors, rather than the space of up to 10mm which is typically required to allow the more substantial doors to open unhindered. “To be able to offer customers a solution for the thickest doors, but with tight gaps, is a seriously strong selling point in a market increasingly

sensitive to aesthetics,” said Hettich UK marketing manager Colin Patterson.

Wide-angle hinge The new wide-angle Sensys allows the cabinet door to open to 165 , making access much easier. But there is another critical advantage unique to Hettich: full access to the cabinet can be achieved at 95 opening, meaning internal drawers can be accessed without opening the door to its full extent.

And being able to offer the wide-angle hinge on doors up to 32mm thick combines the advantages of both Sensys innovations.

The thick-door and wide-angle Sensys can be specified with the fully integrated Silent System. Equally the hinges can be left free-swinging to be compatible with

Push-to-Open, or for multiple hinge situations on tall doors, where it is not necessary for all hinges to feature the Silent System to achieve the desired result.

For further information: Tel: 0161 872 9552 Email: marketing@uk.hettich.com

Machine Smarter Training Daltons Wadkin aim to raise woodworking machine operator training to new levels Already established trainers of wood machinists in all sectors, Daltons Wadkin have recently invested in additional training personnel and new training materials with the aim of raising standards to a new high in the industry.

New training methods and procedures have been devised and supporting booklets produced in association with experienced training provider John Gubb of Safety Training Woodworking. Mr Gubb who knows more about operator training than most and has many years experience not only with training but with accident investigation, advice and provision of safety equipment, is more than happy to work in conjunction with the Daltons Wadkin team. The availability of Daltons Wadkin trainers and materials adds strength to his own business and working together when required a thoroughly comprehensive training service of the highest standard is offered to the industry.

Francis Dalton said, “We aim to be among the very best and most successful trainers in the country and these changes are a significant step towards that goal. We already have the name and the experience and with the changes we have made and the availability of the knowledge and insight of John Gubb we have significantly raised our game. Our trainers cover the whole of the UK and beyond if necessary and are now equipped with the best

Damian Smith of Daltons Wadkin training operatives on site

training materials available.”

Added John Gubb, “It is a pleasure to work with the Daltons Wadkin team. They are ambitious and enthusiastic about training and have experienced and very capable personnel to deliver it. Their training materials are in my opinion second to none and I see no reason why our co-operation should not go from strength to strength.”

Daltons Wadkin see no limit to their aspirations in the training sector and expect to double turnover within the next 12 months.

Machine operators generally receive training on-site, ie on the machines they are working on a day-by-day basis, or alternatively the work can be carried out at the Daltons Wadkin headquarters in Nottingham. Recipients receive not only expert training but also a

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health check on the machines they are using together with relevant health and safety advice.

Training booklets are provided as a permanent record of the teaching involved and for future reference. Individual certificates are issued for each student on completion.

In addition Daltons Wadkin are able to provide risk assessments on buildings and equipment. These involve an initial inspection by qualified personnel and culminate in the issuing of files containing full inventories and all necessary documentation relevant to the work processes involved.

For further information: Tel: 0115 986 5201 www.daltonswadkin.com MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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HANDLING Combilift Announces €40 Million Investment In New Manufacturing Facility Combilift Ltd. is to invest 40 million over the next two years in a new manufacturing facility, which will also create 200 additional jobs over the next five years. This announcement was made

by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny along with the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton on a visit to Combilift’s current HQ in Monaghan town on Friday 6th February.

This expansion will enable Combilift to proceed with its plan to double its current ¤150 million turnover over the next five years.

The majority of the 200 new jobs to be created will be for skilled technicians and design engineers and a further 200 jobs will also be created during the two year construction period of the new facility.

Combilift has recently purchased 40 hectares of industrial zoned land on the Monaghan by-pass where the new purposebuilt, 40,000 square metre, greenfield manufacturing site will be built. This will include a dedicated Research and Development building and adjoining administrational offices and will be more than double the size of both of the company’s present manufacturing facilities. These are currently in Monaghan Town where Combilift’s forklift ranges are produced and in Clontibret, where the Straddle Carrier range is built.

Combilift is best known for its wide range of multi-directional forklifts, Aisle-Master articulated forklifts and other innovative

Far right Martin McVicar, E Kenny & R Bruton

material handling solutions such as the Combilift Straddle Carrier designed to handle large containers and over-sized loads. The company was set up by Managing Director Martin McVicar and Technical Director Robert Moffett in 1998 and thanks to the continued 7% investment of turnover in R&D, Combilift has produced in excess of 24,500 units since 1998. It currently employs over 300 people at its two facilities and products are exported to over 75 countries.

Commenting today, Martin McVicar said: “with this greenfield investment and sufficient land available on the new site for future expansion, Combilift is committed to continuing its organic growth in Monaghan

for many years to come”. He also stated that “Combilift, on behalf of the mid-Tier Irish engineering companies is very pleased to announce that it is the process of submitting an Apprenticeship Application to accredit our employees and employees of other Irish engineering companies as ‘Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) technicians’. This apprenticeship aims to educate technicians to be competent in hydraulics, electrics, and troubleshooting diagnostics”.

Welcoming the announcement, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny said: “It is growing and dynamic Irish companies like Combilift which are driving a recovery across Ireland’s regions. Combilift’s new ¤40 million facility in Monaghan will make a profound difference to the local economy and the national export economy.” Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton, who has been accompanied

by Combilift on several Enterprise Ireland trade missions around the world since taking office, said: “Combilift is a world-class Irish exporting company, developing and manufacturing cutting edge products in a regional location for sale abroad, creating employment for hundreds of people in Monaghan.”

Tel: + 353 47 80500 Email: info@combilift.com www.combilift.com l-r Martin McVicar, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Robert Moffat

6 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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EVENTS

LIGNA Celebrates 40 Years Ligna 2015 is in Hannover from 11-15 May this year. It will feature more than 1,500 exhibitors from over 40 countries is expecting an estimated 90,000 visitors. There will be a lot of first time exhibitors using this years Ligna to showcase their innovations to the world. They include providers of solutions for the joinery and cabinet making trades, manufacturers of machinery for the furniture industry, production automation specialists and suppliers of technology for processing solid wood and sawmilling.

CNC Technology is also growing in importance to these trades. More and more joiners and cabinetmakers are investing in CNC processing centres in order to be able to deliver on the most exacting customer specifications and produce custom furniture and joinery quickly at highly competitive rates.

Buyers can choose from a huge selection of machine concepts featuring intuitive operator interfaces and entry-level models for just about every conceivable application.

CNC Technology has progressed considerably and today’s users can choose three, four and even five axis processing centres that are capable of handling both panel products and solid wood. The machines can perform a wide range of tasks from simple operations such as drilling holes for dowels, brackets and shelves in flat pack furniture parts to complex operations such as profiling or profile milling. The end product can be anything from basic chipboard sheets with precision-drilled holes, to window components to complex three-dimensional parts or models. The sheer versatility, range and affordability of the CNC processing centres available on the market today mean that skilled trades too can begin to reap the benefits of a technology that opens the way to low-cost processing of highly customised orders.

CNC technology will soon be a standard feature of joinery and cabinet making workshops – just as circular saws are now.

There are plenty of entry-level CNC options that are within financial reach of small cabinet making and joinery companies. There has never been a better time for them to upgrade their machinery

and take their businesses to the next level.

Demonstrations of entire production lines in operation under real working conditions will highlight the unparalleled power and flexibility of ‘Integrated Production’ and make the future of the industry tangible. An example of this will be the Homag stand accompanied by IMA. During the ten months of 2014, German woodworking machinery exports to the UK totalled 53 millions Euros – a 27% year-onyear increase. That makes the UK

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Germany’s 8th largest export market. In 2013 Germany was the UK’s biggest supplier of woodworking machinery, with a28% share of total imports. Second and third places were held by Italy (23%) and China (12%).

For further information: Tel: 0049 511 890 Email: info@messe.de www.messe.de

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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LIGNA PREVIEW

The HOMAG Group – Leading The Field At LIGNA 2015 HOMAG City in Hall 26 will again be the focal point for visitors to the 2015 LIGNA show in Hanover, Germany.

Here, the HOMAG Group will be presenting integrated solutions from a compact workshop over an area of 80m2, up to a fully networked 100 metre long batch size 1 system. Large and small manufacturers alike will find appropriate automation and software solutions to support the range of world class woodworking machinery from the industry’s market leader.

InnovationCenter — the original Visitors to the legendary InnovationCenter will get a glimpse into the future. How will the demands placed on furniture manufacturers change over the

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next ten years? Which furniture production technologies will help our customers achieve success? At the InnovationCenter you’ll be able to take a look at the furniture production process of tomorrow — a visual experience that is full of surprises and is accompanied by hands-on technology.

One of the trending themes in the InnovationCenter is energy efficiency.

That's because increasing productivity, reducing costs and conserving resources are now integral building blocks for those companies that are looking to the future.

A key focal point in this regard is ecoPlus, the intelligent technology package from the HOMAG Group. Taking an integrated view, it is clear to see how much potential lies in energy consumption alone.

A workshop that uses ecoPlus solutions for saws, edgebanding machines, processing

centres and sanding machines can lower its energy consumption by up to 30%.

The latest from ecoPlus: Suction devices — less is more In the development of new suction devices, HOMAG is focusing on two areas: detection of chips and energy-efficient removal of these chips. Now the chips are always removed horizontally — the flowoptimised CFK distributor provides a high level of wear resistance along with a reduction in weight. As an additional advantage, this method reduces the maximum height of the hall that is required.

Overall, this type of suction solution delivers better results at a lower cost: • Up to 30% reduction in energy used for suction

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LIGNA PREVIEW • Up to 25% improvement in the degree of suction • Reduced contamination of the machine and dust pollution in the ambient air

Energy efficiency: How do we identify potential savings in the production process?

Energy-efficient production is becoming increasingly important — it's no longer a question of WHETHER to take action, but HOW. Rather than simply analysing the individual machine, it is important to consider the interaction of the entire system. HOMAG Group Engineering achieves this goal using innovative simulation software from SIEMENS. Take a look for yourself: youtube.com/homaggroup

Networked production: Individuality on a mass scale In modern furniture production, there is an increasing trend toward individual living

spaces. The home is set to become ever more important as a retreat and place of recovery. For furniture manufacturers, this trend means focusing heavily on the individual requirements of end customers, while facing a wide range of options when it comes to furniture dimensions, shapes, materials, colours and surfaces.

In some cases, this may even mean that customers design their own item of furniture on the manufacturer's website and order it online.

As a result, the goal is to use industrial processes to manufacture furniture that is specific to each individual customer and that could otherwise only be obtained from a carpenter or joiner, all at a cost that is as close as possible to that of series production.

It is against this background that ‘Industry 4.0’ has become a hot topic in the wood processing industry — though this abstract concept covers a large field. In the HOMAG Group, we use the term ‘networked production’. You can take a look at a batch size 1 system with a length of over 100m LIVE in HOMAG City — it is fully networked and available for all to see.

Automation: Products that connect The five business fields of storage technology, automation and robotics, sorting and picking, assembly technology and packaging technology are playing an increasingly important role in companies of all sizes. Whether manual or industrial production, the quality of the products is not the challenge. Instead, the challenge lies in achieving optimal output from processing machines by applying intelligent logistics concepts.

From high-performance individual products to complex interlinking of processes, and from series production to batch size 1, integrated material flow concepts aimed at optimising the flexibility of a production process are vitally important. The experts at HOMAG Automation take the following approach: Instead of making processing machines dependent on the material flow, the materials must flow at a rate that is dependent on the speed of the processing machines.

Growing with the HOMAG Group

into an industrial solution. That's because machines from the HOMAG Group can be expanded at any time thanks to their modular design. This allows customers to respond to future requirements with flexibility, as well as increase efficiency and optimise work processes.

At LIGNA, the HOMAG Group will show just how efficient production can be — from individual machines and how to interlink them, to workshop concepts and fully networked systems that cover everything from panel dividing to packaging.

The HOMAG Group solutions provide the ideal basis for networking machines and production cells. All stages of the process are characterised by an integrated flow of data, from the customer's planning specifications to the work piece production process, right up to analysis. This is achieved thanks to the following modules: • Production control system: the right information at the right time • Material flow control system: smallest batch sizes, short delivery times • Identification solutions: labeling of components • Machine Monitoring & Reporting (MMR): A high level of transparency in the production process enables informed decisions to be made • Machine operation: On all HOMAG Group machines, powerTouch provides standardised operating controls and software modules for simple and ergonomic operation.

• See more: powerTouch - Touch the innovation The LIGNA show is a great place to see the latest innovations and HOMAG City is the place that will set the benchmark for your time at the show.

For further information: Tel: 01332 856500 Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk www.homag-uk.co.uk

A compact, 80m2 workshop can grow

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MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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LIGNA PREVIEW

SCM Group'S Huge Prescence at Ligna 2015 The SCM Group will be showcasing the widest range of wood and panel processing machines on the market today with a strong presence at Hanover Ligna 2015 with 4 stands spread over 4 halls.

With over 3,000 square metres, a larger surface area than at Ligna 2013, providing evidence not only of the Group’s strength active in the wood and panel processing industry for over sixty years - but also of the competence, passion and expertise that have contributed to creating product lines for all sectors of the market.

With the very latest manufacturing technology for producing timber houses, furniture, doors, windows and bespoke joinery, and also in the plastics, metal and new materials sectors being exhibited. This is the message that the SCM Group will send to the World at Hanover Ligna from 11th to 15th May 2015, on the back of a range of solutions that is unparalleled, not only for its extensiveness, but also for its efficiency and reliability.

The main stand in Hall 25, covering over 1,800 square metres, will showcase innovations for all types of machining processes for the industry and panel sectors. Morbidelli CNC Machining Centres will show the impeccable routing, boring and edge banding quality and high productivity, and also for small and medium batches (at over 20 components per minute, with set-up times of less than 45 seconds).

The innovations from Stefani will focus on superb finishing quality for industrial edge banding, thanks to a full update of the majority of the Stefani machine range, with new models, new technology (for the first time, hot air edge banding will be presented as one of the Group's solutions), a new generation of machining units to achieve optimal results – both from an aesthetic and a performance viewpoint – with all types of materials, sizes and process phases (trimming, corner rounding and edge banding strip finishing with copying and increasingly more delicate movements with

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SCM’s Routech Oikos 6-axis machining head

+10% extra performance with the new corner rounding unit).

From Gabbiani and Mahros, the focus will be on fully integrated solutions that combine panel cutting, Morbidelli nesting machining operations and an intelligent magazine to enable excellent performance, with automation playing a key role in ensuring flexibility and high output for the

management of very different types of orders. Concerning the design of furniture finishing, DMC will launch innovative machining units that create trendy finishes, such as gouged, sawn and structured finishes.

In the door and window segment, SCM has expanded its processing centre range with a new model with enhanced

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LIGNA PREVIEW Stefani double-sided combined Tenoning and Edgebander

performance as far as the maximum processing height and with operator safety. It will also provide a flexible solution for door and window manufacturers, capable of combining high productivity with the possibility of creating increasingly customised projects.

Many new machines from the entire SCM range for panel processing, including the new CNC processing centre with multifunctional table designed for customers who require a reduced footprint and the launch of a new compact versatile edge banding machine, designed to provide increasingly competitive performance for small businesses.

Hall 11 will showcase solutions for DIY users and small joinery and panel companies, from classic, simpler machines (with the entire Minimax range revamped with a new, captivating design) through to the prestigious range of SCM's "L’Invincibile" professional classical machines, which will include an innovative cutting solution.

Hall 15 will host technologies for the timber house building sectors, and this is where one of the Group's main innovations will be unveiled. Ligna will see the preview of the “Oikos”, the powerful Routech processing centre with a 6-axis machining unit, capable of managing the most diverse processes both on beams and X-LAM/CLT wall elements with a maximum size up to 1,250mm width, 300mm thickness and 19metres in length. The updated OIKOS 12 model is equipped with the V.2 version of the Routech Quick Link software, which can interface with the sector's most widely-used design CADs and, a first on the market, can import “.btl” files generated for nesting SCM Invincible Spindle Moulder

machining operations on wall panels, with the resulting material optimisation and waste reduction.

Visitors will also be able to see the Proview simulation software that enables the reproduction on a PC environment of real working conditions of machine programmes, in order to prevent possible collisions and errors, as well as to enable the calculation of machining times and costs for components.

Hall 16 will be dedicated to finishing, with the Superfici innovations and, particularly, automated and robotised spraying systems for maximum production flexibility, as well as showcasing cutting edge technologies, including polymerisation with UV LED systems.

Ligna 2015 will no doubt be the ideal opportunity to discover the results of the SCM Group's progress as far as software development is concerned, the arena where the battle to give users, both small operators or managers of large, flexible production lines, the tools to work as best as they can with constant quality, results, optimal "cost-effectiveness" of the production cycle and the reduction of all possible errors.

With a dynamic, interactive display, dedicated areas and a team of experts at their service, visitors will be able to get to know, test and experience first hand, the highly competitive performances offered by the SCM Group's software suite.

The spotlight will be on the “Xilog Maestro” Cad/Cam software for processing centres, enhanced by the module for threedimensional surface processing, Maestro 3D, which is added to application

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software for specific processes, such as Maestro Edge, Maestro Nesting, Maestro WD and MSL. Another topic of conversation will be the “Pro View” simulation software, which, as we have already mentioned, enables any cycle to be checked in detail, eliminating any possibility of error or collision, and manufacturing time scales and costs to be calculated.

The Watch line supervisor will be demonstrated for furniture, doors and windows integrated manufacturing systems. This is SCM Group's advanced solution for the centralised, speedy and economical management of the integration of the entire manufacturing system.

The new version of “Ottimo Cut” will be officially launched at Ligna 2015 with a revolution in the management of the cutting process, with excellent performance with respect to panel cutting optimisation, thanks to a powerful algorithm developed in partnership with the Mathematics Department of an important Italian university. It will support up to a twentyfold reduction in the time needed to calculate a complex cutting scheme and a 50% waste reduction, results that were unthinkable before now.

Visit the SCM Group at Ligna Hannover: Hall 25, stand C76, Industrial Technologies and Systems Hall 11, stand D50, Machines for Joinery Trades Hall 15, stand E36, Technologies for Timber Buildings Hall 16, stand D03, Finishing Solutions SCM Group at Ligna 2015. A vast showcase at the most important exhibition of the industry to meet customers from all over the World.

For further information: Tel: 0115 9770044 Fax: 0115 9770946 Email: scmgroupuk@scmgroup.com www.scmgroup-uk.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

11

SOFTWARE

Alphacam’s New Concept for Machining STL Files Alphacam, the industry leading software solution for the woodworking industry, now contains a new concept for machining technical STL files.

The Alphacam STL-Hans functionality converts difficult-to-use STL-files into a simple template for CNC machining by allowing the user to identify and convert the areas of STL-files for multiplane routing, drilling and sawing operations.

Traditionally, CAD programs which have their focal point on a photo-realistic rendering can often output simple parts to the machine shop, but do not have the same capability for high level design parts.

For this, they use 3D STL as their default output, plus other formats such as Google SketchUp and Autodesk Studio 3D. Alphacam General Manager Nick Spurrett says it is difficult to machine wood to the level required for most furniture and exhibition stands when using STL files as they only define a raw unstructured triangulated surface.

“This doesn’t provide the exact details required for real edges which would normally be used to drive the CNC. It provides manufacturers with something which looks like a 3D model of their part, but doesn’t provide support for programming in a way that is suitable for cutting wood. Everyone who’s tried to mill, drill or saw from STL files knows how difficult it is, and often resort to generating a new geometrical model of the part.”

However, the STL-Hans functionality developed by Licom Germany, overcomes those issues by quickly creating accurate CNC programs from STL files. It converts the triangles into supporting edges for 3- to 5- axis CNC programming, along with drilling and sawing support.

International exhibition stand manufacturer D4 Projekt recently used the software to create components for a 3D cover aimed at attracting people to their customer’s stand. Designed in Pytha 3D

12 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

CAD software, the components were progammed with Alphacam STL-Hans and machined on a Felder Group www.format4.at HM 5-axis machine.

After the parts were separated and set into the machining position, single mouse clicks define the manufacturing zones, and the STL data is converted into areas dedicated to CNC routing, drilling, and edges for saw cuts.

With the process entirely automated, no construction planes or additional calculations were needed to produce multiplane 2.5D operations. Once the machining plan was generated, the user specific

Alphacam Styles automatically create the relevant toolpaths, adding tool data and machining methods to the detected edges, producing ready-to-use NC code.

It took just three minutes for STL-Hans to program the part, with the machining taking a further three minutes.

For further information: Alphacam: http://www.alphacam.com Alphacam STL-Hans: http://www.licom-alphacam.com/stl-hans-uk D4 Projekt: www.d4projekt.de

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SOFTWARE

2020 – Excellence at Both Ends Speak to Steve Edge, Director of Sales & Manufacturing at 2020 and you will be quick to realise that he has a central mantra: end-to-end software solutions for the cabinet furniture design and manufacturing sector.

2020 are leading international innovators in their field and, by drawing on their suite of products and software solutions, they have identified two of their key 2020 solutions to achieve major efficiencies and flows in the fundamental sequence that underpins their thinking and development – Plan > Engineer > Produce.

This begins with their cutting edge planning product that directly involves the end customer and interfaces at the other end by establishing a close to seamless flow of information from showroom, through factory and ending with installation.

The unmatched versatility of the 2020’s market leading professional planning and design element can draw up to date catalogues and all technical detail from the manufacturer generated from 2020 Engineering and Production software in the supply factory.

So, these two linked 2020 products provide a powerful tool for advancing the business on a number of fronts – no matter how large or small the operation. These efficiencies can be quantified in terms of time and cost savings and lead the manufacturing component of the relationship to be less reactive better able to plan.

Therefore, looking at the process on a stepby-step basis, the planner is the first point of contact that the customer will experience.

The planner can quickly realise the customers’ aspirations from a simple set of room measurements and door/window positions etc. As the kitchen (or any other room) starts to ‘come to life’ in front of their eyes the consumer can be led through every aspect and detail from colours and textures, to surface combinations and even lighting

Steve Edge, Director of Sales & Manufacturing

(using the special Lighting Wizard tool). The designer can discuss lifestyle, storage requirements, ergonomic organisation and much, much more.

Throughout this process a preliminary list of components from which the Engineering tool generates a production Bill of Materials (BOM) on the fly – far more advanced than other software providers – is created as the order is placed in readiness to support the production processes.

The room plan information then processed

by Engineering into the Production BOM which is then planned for an optimum way to suit the Production process. Whether the process involves a volume throughput panel processing and assembly operation, a small but flexible system using cell production or the often preferred nesting system, 2020 adapts and calculates efficiencies and a methodology that will optimise flow of operations and information for downstream contacts with third party suppliers like sheet materials, hardware and fittings.

Jobs can have primary and secondary routings which are triggered by the planned and unplanned machine availability. Progress is tracked by using a highly configurable system ensuring that management is always

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in control of both planned and actual progress.

In the context of the 2020 solution, for endto-end, see win-win.

The retailer will have designed and generated a product completely ready for installation where fitters will experience a trouble-free job without having to adjust and adapt on site and where remedial work will be eliminated leaving a highly satisfied customer.

The manufacturer will have gained control of the information used in Design and their Engineering and Production processes using a single product definition. As a result they operate more quickly and efficiently, spend more of their time driving quality and service compared with firefighting unplanned issues.

Both aspects of the equation benefit from each other and ultimately, in terms of expanding and developing business, you have achieved the ultimate sales target – word of mouth recommendation.

In the context of the 2020 solution, for endto-end, read win-win!

For further information: Tel: 01233 635566 Email: Steve.Edge@2020spaces.com www.2020spaces.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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SOFTWARE

Alphacam 2015 R1 Provides Efficiency and Productivity Gains The inclusion of a host of new and enhanced functionality in Alphacam 2015 R1 from Vero Software ensures manufacturers can compete in a global economy.

The latest release is the largest ever delivered by the Alphacam development team and a release they are very proud of.

The focus has been on helping manufacturers drive down costs, by speeding up their design and production processes, improving efficiency, productivity and profitability.

A new advanced 5-axis machining module is introduced in Alphacam 2015 R1, which includes a comprehensive set of strategies with advanced tool axis control and intelligent collision avoidance, to quickly and accurately machine surface and solid models. Alphacam General Manager Nick Spurrett says:

“Incorporating the Moduleworks technology into Alphacam shows our commitment to the complex Advanced 5 axis market. The new toolpaths can also be analysed against the machine tool constraints using Alphacam’s 5-axis independent toolpath optimiser.”

He says, a new ribbon bar interface brings Alphacam 2015 R1 right up to date as far as interface technology exists, the new interface enables users to quickly find the commands they need, as they are arranged in logical groups, assembled together under tabs. “Each tab relates to a type of activity, such as creating geometry, or machining,” he says. “Clear icons and text labels ensure that commands are easily recognisable and accessible.”

The Quick Access Toolbar can be displayed above or below the ribbon bar and includes the most commonly used

commands, such as Open and Save. Users can customise the ribbon bar by adding their own favourites. “We have 50 new icons in Alphacam, because ribbons have replaced menus.” All Alphacam modules, including Alphaedit, have the new ribbon GUI. Also new in 2015 R1 is aggregate tool holders. “They are a welcome addition in the new release, enabling users to define them with geometry extrusions and rotations, STL and solid CAD models.

Users can now create a library of toolholders. These toolholders, or aggregates, can either be extruded, evolved geometry or solids. Common applications of aggregates are horizontal routing and drilling. C-axis aggregates are also supported in Alphacam simulation.”

Significant updates to the Project Manager give it a more contemporary

Advanced 5-axis

14 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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SOFTWARE

Multidrill

look, including specific icons for each Operation type. And the new look File menu now includes a Recent Files page listing Alphacam and CAD parts files, displaying a preview image and their properties.

Multi drill heads now have graphical support – as with the aggregates, they can be defined using geometry extrusions and rotations, STL and solid CAD models.

Tools are loaded and selected in Project Manager and fully simulated.

Using the View Comparison function compares the part with the machining operations. “This means manufacturers can see whether there is any stock left, and allows them to select an alternative or extra machining operation” says Nick Spurrett.

Finally, the ability to import files from Google Sketchup adds to the extensive list of third-party file formats which Alphacam supports.

Headquartered in England, Vero Software designs, develops, and supplies CAD/CAM/CAE software radically

enhancing the efficiency of design and manufacturing processes, providing its customers with exceptional value through high productivity gains and significantly reducing time to market. The company’s world-renowned brands include Alphacam, Cabinet Vision, Edgecam, Machining STRATEGIST, PEPS, Radan, SMIRT, SURFCAM, WorkNC and VISI, along with the production control MRP system Javelin. Despite the diversity of application, these solutions have one thing in common: they all address the rising challenges of achieving manufacturing efficiencies and bring huge value to the operations in which they are deployed.

Vero has direct offices in the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Japan, USA, Brazil, Netherlands, China, South Korea, Spain and India supplying products to more than 45 countries through its wholly owned subsidiaries and reseller network.

Vero is part of Hexagon (Nordic exchange: HEXA B), a leading global

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provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies that enable customers to design, measure and position objects, and process and present data.

For further information: www.alphacam.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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SOFTWARE

Over 100 Updates In Latest Cabinet Vision The latest release of woodwork engineering software Cabinet Vision contains more than 100 items of new and enhanced functionality, including greater flexibility in organising materials, through to greater control in where and how edgebanding is assigned to components.

Many of the new features in Cabinet Vision V9 are in response to customer requests. Product Business Manager Marie Cassidy says: “Cabinet Vision is used extensively by companies designing and manufacturing kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and furniture for schools and offices, along with bespoke case goods.

“Every user will find many of the updates in the latest release invaluable in improving their processes even further, whether they have manual cutlists or have CNC equipment.”

One item of new functionality is especially important to manufacturers

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transferring their design codes to CNC machines through Cabinet Vision’s Screen to Machine module. “Mitre construction can now be defined using construction standards, which are then transferred to Screen to Machine. We’ve introduced this facility as there’s a big demand for this style of construction, as many companies strive to produce cabinets with non-visible fixings and easy assembly. The mitre assembly option provides an easy User Interface for this.”

V9 sees a major improvement to the material database, with the introduction of a new Material Manager, giving greater flexibility in organising materials.

Woodworkers can now create material categories and sub categories and carry out quick material searches. The improved user interface is more in line with Windows Explorer, making it easier to manage and maintain the material database.

“We’ve also introduced Material Kits, which will be a big advantage to many

companies,” says Marie Cassidy. “It allows users to add miscellaneous materials into a kit, or hardware pack...for example, a hanging rail that includes hanging brackets and screws.”

Another feature included with the new Material Manager is the Hardware Model Import, for importing 3D Sketchup or 3D DXF models in to the model editor. “This gives the functionality to apply all the associated operations to the model and provide accurate visuals to complement the already accurate machining data. It applies to all hardware within a job, including handles, hinges, drawer guides, hanging rails and legs.”

Reports are now generated much faster thanks to the Integrated Reporting Engine which has replaced the standard version.

All existing reports are still available, along with the ability to create new or modify existing reports. “Many woodworking companies using cutlist reports are used to having them laid out in a specific way, and

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SOFTWARE

the new engine enables them to do that.”

Cabinet Vision V9 has added the Lamello Clamex assembly fitting to its existing range of Blind Dado, Rafix, Cam and Dowel, and Screw fix assembly construction styles. These fittings are non-visible and can be used on any angle.

The Assign Banding feature in the Assembly Wizard gives more control over where and how edgebanding is assigned to cabinet parts. “The interface is easy to use, and provides simple images of parts requiring banding,” says Marie Cassidy.

Other new and enhanced items of functionality include 43 new bid methods; New Connect Tool to create a 0” fillet; the ability to reverse the toolpath on operations such as circles, arcs and lines in the CAM editor; significant improvements to rendering/redraw speed at room level; material name limit of 23 characters extended to 50; and a new utility for defining moulding profiles.

• When Norfolk Oak suffered a fire in their workshop, Cabinet Vision was instrumental in getting them up and

running again. “We definitely wouldn’t have recovered so quickly without it,” says Marketing Executive Ciaran O’Neill.

“Using Cabinet Vision’s 3D wire frame diagrams we could see the engineering aspects of all the kitchens we were working on at the time and optimise them correctly. Then we simply used Screen-To-Machine to send the NC code to our Holzher Pro Master CNC machine and we were cutting wood again.”

• Tim Higham, owner of Higham Furniture, says: “We spend a lot of time up front with Cabinet Vision to get the design absolutely right, but it ensures the workshop produces it accurately first time.” Using the software means they go from their bespoke design to the cutlist automatically. “Before investing in Cabinet Vision we had a number of issues with spreadsheets and the manual process of converting attractive designs into cutlists. But now, once we’ve got the walls accurately dimensioned and the kitchen fitting accurately to those dimensions, along with correct doors and

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cabinets, we simply push a button to create assembly sheets, cut lists and parts.”

• The UK pioneer in creating ergonomic dental cabinets halved its surgery design time and material wastage by switching to Cabinet Vision. Paterson Health Group was the first company in the UK to design bespoke ergonomic cabinets for dentists, who historically used ordinary cabinets and sideboards. “Because many dental surgeries are converted houses with unusual-shaped rooms, our standard product range is just the starting point. We need to tailor every cabinet to the customer’s individual needs, and Cabinet Vision does that extremely quickly and accurately,” says Managing Director Stuart Paterson.

For further information: www.cabinetvision.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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SOFTWARE

Alphacam Helps CNC World Diversify Into Wood Cutting A woodworking machine tool distributor has diversified into cutting wood for customers who are working to capacity and need to fulfil another order, or if they’re asked to cut a different material from normal and do not have a suitable machine for it.

CNC World are the UK’s sole distributor of MultiCam 3- and 5-axis routers, offering them with Alphacam, from Vero Software, in order to optimise their performance.

Alphacam also drives the Series 1000 demonstration machine which they use for the new cutting service.

Alphacam also drives the series 1000 demonstration machine which they use for the new cutting service

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“When our machine wasn’t being used for demonstrations it was standing idle,” says Sales Director Jason Rowe.

“Customers receiving orders for cutting a different material have to subcontract it out, and we were often asked to recommend companies to undertake emergency cutting, so decided to start using our own machine for it.”

They have also hired a programmer with extensive knowledge of Alphacam to ensure they provide customers with the best possible solution.

The service has proved particularly useful for machining overspill when a manufacturer’s shop floor is full to capacity, and when a customer needs to work with material they do not normally cut. He explains that as CNC World also supply lasers, plasmas and water jets driven by Alphacam’s sister software, Radan, they are able to cut metal, which wood-focused customers cannot undertake.

“It means we can offer metal cutting for woodworkers, and wood and plastic cutting for metal manufacturers. For example, a woodworking company recently needed to cut a couple of pallets of stainless steel as part of a cabinet-making contract. We were able to do that for them.”

The cutting service has also helped CNC World to secure a machine order. “We’ve been cutting parts for a manufacturer which led to him winning a major contract.

The additional work that is bringing in justified them investing in a new machine from us,” says Jason Rowe.

CNC World distribute a range of MultiCam routers including the Classic entry-level, 1000, 3000 and 5000 series, along with the fast high performance 7000 series and the 5-axis 8000 series. “Many decorative furniture parts and moulded plywood chair parts require simultaneous 5-axis machining, and the 8000 features

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SOFTWARE

CNC World offers Alphacam from Vero Software in order to optimise MultiCam 3 and 5-axis routers

standard X, Y and Z axes plus a rotational C axis and swing A axis, meaning it can machine in all five axes simultaneously or rotate around a part, machining on all five accessible surfaces.”

A number of customers have used MultiCam routers to manufacture sets for film and television productions including Harry Potter, James Bond and X-Men, and are currently working on the new Star Wars films.

When specialist builders Facit Homes were creating a customised house for the

Grand Designs TV programme an 8 x 4 MultiCam 1000 series router was taken to the site in Hertfordshire to cut the plywood sections. “Whenever the programme’s repeated we get enquiries about the 1000 from woodworking companies who’ve seen it on television.”

He explains why they decided to offer Alphacam to customers as an option with all their routers, and why they use it to program the 1000 for their new cutting service: “It’s extremely powerful software that can be adapted to every customer’s

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specific, individual requirements, and that’s vital as everyone needs something different.

“Customers using the cutting service simply send us the files – often their own machines are programmed with Alphacam anyway, so they send us Alphacam files – and we prepare and run the job for them.”

For further information: CNC World: www.cnc.world.co.uk Alphacam: www.alphacam.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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PROFILE

Format 4 Commissions Its 30,000th Machine Austrian machine manufacturing specialists the Felder Group, are starting off the New Year with a celebration of an anniversary machine.

Fulfilling the highest requirements for professional woodworkers in trade and industry since 2001, FORMAT-4 has been leading the way as the premium of the Felder Group. The Austrian business based in Hall, Tirol has handed over their 30,000th woodworking machine in time for the start of the New Year on 7th January. The proud new owner, Fritz Oberhauser has equipped his workshop in Bavaria with a kappa 550 panel saw saw that ticks all the boxes.

Fritz Oberhauser explained that the superior build quality and reliable Austrian engineering really sets his machine apart.

Moreover, “everything from a single supplier”, the Felder Group company motto, could not be more accurate. Alongside the premium sliding table panel saw, Fritz has also invested in an exact 63 thicknesser as well as a complete extraction system. “The first time I visited the factory in Hall in Tirol, I was more than impressed. The standards

and level of quality are extremely high, yet the traditional values are still at the forefront of everything Felder offers.”

Martin Felder is equally delighted with Fritz Oberhauser’s acquisition of the kappa 550: “Our close relationship with our customers enables us to take on board their practical requirements; which directly informs the development our new machine concepts. We are all very proud with the sale of our 30,000th machine and I am happy to know that this panel saw will be in very good hands”.

Format-4 – uncompromised competence for maximum requirements Format-4 has been an extraordinary success story ever since its launch at the turn of the millennium, with impressive detailed solutions, numerous innovations and patents, maximum operating comfort and perfect precision. True to the motto, offering everything from a single supplier, the Austrian machine manufacturing specialists develop woodworking machines in combination with top of the range software.

The Felder Group provide a perfect, tailor

made complete package that is in a class of its own. Constant innovation is synonymous with Format-4 and the latest developments in technology enable Felder to simulate a customer’s workshop. Format 4 is able to configure solutions to customer’s individual requirements. Perfect advice along with tailor made deliveries, commissioning and service; complete the unique Felder Group full service offer.

Numerous international awards such as the Bayerische Staatspreis, the IF-DesignAward and the Adolf-Loos-Preis, are testimony of the passion that underpins the demands of the Felder Group.

Manufacturing the best woodworking machines money can buy, countless customers worldwide rely on the Felder design and build. As a result they profit from maximum productivity and perfection in woodworking.

For further information about Format 4, or to see how a Format 4 Kappa 550 Panel Saw can benefit your workshop visit: www.Format-4.com

Managing Directors Martin und Hansjörg Felder at the handover of the machine to Fritz Oberhauser at the FORMAT-4 factory in Hall in Tirol. The proud workforce celebrates the 30,000th FORMAT-4 woodworking machine

20 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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CASE STUDY

HOMAG UK Smoothes the Manufacturing Flow Process for Bluespot Furniture Dewsbury based Bluespot Furniture Limited provides a full range of office furniture from functional cantilever desking to the most complex designs, all manufactured in-house to the highest quality standards at competitive prices. Long-term investment in machinery and systems has enabled Bluespot to offer industry-leading delivery times from a ‘Next Day’ service on e-commerce ranges and 7-10 working days on Bluespot branded furniture from receipt of order.

The company has over 7500 product lines available from stock, all produced in its new 37,000sq.ft. manufacturing facility which it moved into in December 2013.

Established in 2001, Bluespot has been a HOMAG advocate since the early days; the business made its first investment into a HOMAG machine in 2003 and since then has become progressively dependent on HOMAG equipment.

Bluespot operations director, Dr Andrew Cooper, takes up the story, “Our entire manufacturing system has been built

around HOMAG Group equipment because it is the most reliable and technically advanced on the market.

A reputation to protect “Our business is built on reputation and we cannot afford to let quality or delivery issues tarnish that reputation. We have to be absolutely certain that we can deliver product on time, whether that is a large contract order or a bespoke piece of office furniture; we owe it to our customers to deliver on time at a competitive price.

“In 2013, with business expanding and our existing beam saw in need of replacement, we made the decision to invest in a new manufacturing facility. This gave us the opportunity to look carefully at our manufacturing flow process and where possible, automate the system to minimise materials handling and forklift truck movements around the facility.

The BARGSTEDT/HOLZMA Store ‘n Saw - an automated storage and retrieval system “We undertook a comprehensive

evaluation of equipment and systems that would help us achieve our goals and it soon became clear that integrated control software would be a pivotal factor in our decision making.

“For Bluespot, cutting of sheet material is the cornerstone of the manufacturing processes. It feeds the rest of the production cycle and whilst our previous saw had been very reliable, we wanted the new saw to integrate into the whole system.

A couple of years earlier we had visited the HOLZMA factory in Germany and were extremely impressed with the performance of its range of beam saws.

“We first saw the BARGSTEDT Store ‘n Saw system at a HOMAG UK Open House and because it is designed to feed the HOLZMA beam saw it was a particularly attractive combination. The clincher for us though was the software which provided a totally integrated control system.

The software for the saw is Cut Rite which is very easy to use and we also purchased the HOMAG e-solutions software which was specifically developed for furniture manufacturers. With esolutions it is easy for us to optimise production processes from initial design concept through to completed product.

A smooth transition to our new premises “Once the decision was made to go with HOMAG they were heavily involved with the moving process. Our sales contact at HOMAG UK, John Shepherd, and John Brittan did a sterling job planning and orchestrating the move with our senior management team.

“The plan was to start moving machinery over to the new facility in September 2013 in such a way that we could maintain uninterrupted production. Given the layout we knew that the last items to be installed in the new factory had to be the HOLZMA HPP 300 saw and the BARGSTEDT storage system.

Edgebanding section of Bluespot’s impressive facility

22 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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CASE STUDY

Bargstedt Store ‘n Saw featuring the HOLZMA HPP 300 Beam Saw

“Thanks to the Homag Group’s ability to hit delivery dates spot on and the hard work of both our own people and HOMAG UK, we were able to successfully complete the final piece of our move the week before Christmas, with no loss of production.

Clean, efficient work flow process “The new system is fantastic; it has made a huge difference to our manufacturing performance. Now, when sheet material is delivered, it is simply a case of using the forklift truck to load it into the BARGSTEDT storage system input bay. All the operator has to do is scan the boards in and the system does the rest.

“The storage system gets the right boards ready and automatically loads them onto the back of the saw as and when they are needed. This ensures a constant flow of work even with one off items. The system knows exactly what’s in stock at any given point in time and also manages the off-cuts, using them whenever it is feasible to do so.

This minimises waste and ensures we

maximise the use of our stock.

“The system has enabled us to completely eliminate the movement of forklift trucks around the production area, making it far safer for our employees and customers alike. It has also eliminated the need for employees to manually handle the large heavy boards which has therefore eradicated board damage from misshandling and created a happier, healthier workforce.

Both machinery and company are totally reliable “All the HOMAG Group machinery is totally reliable. The modem link for fault finding gives us real peace of mind and on the odd occasions when parts need replacing, HOMAG UK’s 24hr turn round on parts usually gets us back up and running very quickly.

“There is no doubt that the equipment we have installed has given us an increase in manpower productivity. Our ability to respond to orders has improved and we are

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able to deliver first class products at value for money prices exactly when the customer wants them.

“As for HOMAG UK, they are a straightforward company to work with; you know exactly where you stand and you can rely on them one hundred percent. They always provide a detailed specification of what you have ordered and if there are issues, it is just a case of sitting down with them and discussing what needs to be done to achieve a satisfactory result,” concludes Dr Cooper.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of HOMAG products including the HOLZMA saws and BARGSTEDT storage systems, contact Adele Dixon on 01332 856424.

For further information: Tel: 01332 856500 Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk www.homag.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

See Wood Design in a New Light A revolutionary new wood material that offers extraordinary design possibilities is now available through James Latham.

Luminoso are wood panels that transmit light, allowing designers to create visually stunning effects that are exceptionally unique.

The transparent wood effect is achieved with fibre optics that allow natural or artificial light to be transmitted. When the panel is unlit it appears to be a solid piece of wood as the fibre optics are only visible upon very close inspection but once illuminated, all kinds of impactful and eye-catching effects can be achieved.

Customised designs, logos and images can be incorporated and even ‘movable’ images, such as programmable messages can be transmitted.

Paul Latham, Sales & Product Development Director for James Latham said, “Luminoso really does have the ‘Wow factor’ and is unlike anything else available in the market. It’s the ultimate in creating a luxury interior space and I can see all kinds of applications for it, hotels, bars, restaurants, high-end shop fitting, yachts, private jets, exhibition stands, directional signage, the list is endless.”

Using species such as Oak, Maple, Walnut, Cherry and Sapele, Luminoso is a patented material that is made by embedding fibre optics between layers of wood with high strength adhesives. No holes are created to achieve the effect.

It can be finished with lacquer, oil or stain to match the tone or finish of any other design element and it can be milled, cut and sanded.

Luminoso is available in panel sizes of 3000mm x 500mm, 3000mm x 1000mm and 3000mm x 1250mm and in thicknesses of 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm, 18mm and 20mm.

To arrange a product presentation, contact Paul Latham: Tel: 01442 849119 Email: paul.latham@lathams.co.uk

With Luminoso, customised designs, logos and images can be incorporated

With Luminoso, the transparent wood effect is achieved with fibre optics that allow natural or artificial light to be transmitted

24 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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the decorative panels group YOUR PERFECT PARTNER

bringing a world of colour indoors

Contact us for more information.

Century House, Premier Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9HF

T: +44 (0) 1484 658341 F: +44 (0) 1484 658812 E: info@decorativepanels.co.uk www.decorativepanels.co.uk

26 colours from calming neutrals to dramatic colours from our dp-decor range. Matching edgebanding available for all colours.

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Egger Introduces New End-Grain ABS Edging Collection EGGER has launched a new collection of ABS edging for its MFC panels that replicates the look and feel of sawn timber planks.

What it calls ‘end-grain’ edging is available for 12 of its latest wood grain decors and takes realism to a new level.

Elliott Fairlie, EGGER UK’s head of decor development said: “As our wood grain decors became more and more realistic – particular our deeply-textured Feelwood synchronised pore range – we felt one piece of the jigsaw was still missing.

“Being able to see the vertical grain and detailing on the ends of the board might seem like a small thing. But it is this attention to detail and realism that lifts this product above the ordinary and makes all the difference to the discerning end-user.

“Using standard edging on the long sides, with end-grain edging on the ends finally creates an MFC panel that is reminiscent of real timber – from whichever angle you look at it.”

EGGER’s 23 x 0.8mm end-grain ABS edging is available from UK stock with a one 75m roll minimum order quantity.

Q1377 Sand Orleans Oak ABS edging end grain

Q3326 Grey Beige Gladstone Oak and Q1793 Lava Tortona ABS edging end grain

26 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

DECORATIVE SURFACES EGGER INTRODUCES NEW END-GRAIN ABS EDGING COLLECTION • EGGER has launched a new collection of ABS edging for its MFC panels that replicates the look and feel of sawn timber planks.

• Using standard edging on the long sides, with end-grain edging on the ends finally creates an MFC panel that is reminiscent of real timber • EGGER’s 23 x 0.8mm end-grain ABS edging is available from UK stock with a one 75m roll minimum order quantity.

For further information: Tel: 01434 602191 www.egger.com

Q3420 Thermo Pine ABS edging end grain

F3 Wood Texture David Clouting is delighted to announce the arrival of four new stock Decofoil items.

F3 is the latest texture design development from LG Hausys. It is being introduced in four solid colours, which leads the way forward for inspiring furniture design in the UK. F3 is special, in that the design structure of a sublime oak is paramount within the texture, thus creating the most impressive painted wood effect in Decofoil.

The four colours featuring F3 are: WAR51-F3 Porcelain White YEM18-F3 Alabaster YEM16-F3 Mussel NCAB4-F3 Cashmere

producers.

Technically LG Hausys have done an outstanding job in developing the F3 texture, which can be manufactured in both membrane pressing, wrapping and lamination grade. This provides the opportunity for five piece doors to be used along side the vinyl wrapped doors within furniture ranges.

Whilst F3 is being added to the Decofoil stock range, the lamination and wrapping grade can be purchased in manageable make to order quantities.

Clients may have more colour requirements for F3 and David Clouting can facilitate this with the flexibility that LG Hausys manufacturing capability provides. Please approach our sales and marketing team for further information.

A4 and pressing samples are available for product development, with stock available to purchase.

The four colours are already used widely within the furniture industry, and this enables the F3 colours to be introduced with minimal additional stock requirements in MFC and MDF. Whilst the Porcelain White is specifically an Egger MFC, Alabaster, Mussel and Cashmere are widely available from the leading MFC

Cashmere

Alabaster

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

For further information: Tel: 01376 518037 www.david.clouting.co.uk

Mussel

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

IDS Announces an Exclusive Distribution Agreement with Finsa for its Superpan Range IDS has secured an exclusive deal with Finsa for the UK distribution of its SuperPanDecor range, the advanced panel substrate for furniture manufacturing that offers superior machining, finishing and cost saving benefits. The range will be available ex-stock from all 13 of IDS’s branches nationwide.

As part of the agreement, IDS has significantly increased the choice and availability of the SuperpanDecor range.

Combining the wealth of experience of both Finsa and IDS, the two companies have put together a range that encompasses the needs of the UK furniture and shopfitting markets, reflecting commercial best sellers and latest design trends.

The SuperPan range offers 40 decors comprising 7 plain colours, 14 woodgrains, 5 fantasy designs, 9 glossies and 4 in-line registered embossed woodgrains called Jazz.

Says David Huggins, Business Development Director at IDS: “We believe that SuperpanDecor is the best in class range for furniture manufacturing and shopfitting. It’s a unique product that bridges the gap between chipboard and MDF – it basically cuts like MDF minimizing break-out but is priced like melamine faced chipboard and that gives customers enormous benefits. We will be providing extensive stockholding and a significant investment programme, plus we have a dynamic and highly experienced support team that will really drive the SuperPan brand forward.”

The key feature of SuperPan is that it is pressed as a single panel with integral layers of MDF fibres on the surface and a chipboard centre. The ex-stock panel, reflecting the majority of UK

28 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

Representatives from Finsa and IDS after signing the exclusive distribution deal, together with Steve Smith (second from left) Olympic games medalist and UK record holder for the high jump.

manufacturing needs, is 2750 x 2100 x 18mm. In addition to this standard size, panels can be made to order in a vast range of sizes, colours and thicknesses.

Says Rafael Willisch, Managing Director of Finsa UK: We chose IDS as our exclusive distribution partner because of their ability to take the product truly national, with stockholding that ensures a greater depth and breadth of choice than ever before. IDS also have the pedigree of working with leading brands and are respected as a major supplier to the furniture and shopfitting sectors. They have the expertise to supply to customers large and small, regional or national, and recognized the potential of the range.”

SuperPan is exclusively available from

IDS with all products held ex-stock for 2448 hour delivery from any of the company’s 13 regional branches.

For further information: Tel: 08457 298 298 Email: info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Colours Collection by dp The use of uni-colours is evolving and is becoming increasingly important within furniture and interior design. With this in mind Decorative Panels Lamination have introduced a further 16 solid colours to their already extensive Colours Collection within the dpdécor range. The range of new designs compliment and work well with existing stock uni-colours such as Sand Beige, Vanilla, Dakar and Alabaster plus of course many of the wood grain designs already available in the dp- décor range.

These lively new uni-colours reflect the latest trends in modern design, ranging from subtle natural colour tones such as Mussel and Moon Grey to bold striking colours including Ruby Red and Electric Blue. The designs work well in isolation as bold segments of colour as well as being ideal to use as feature panels working alongside a wide range of wood grain designs. dplamination now has the most complete range of cost effective uni-colours available on the market.

These latest additions to the Colours Collection, which can be found in the dp-décor portfolio, offer a cost effective route when designers and manufacturers wish to introduce colour to their offering. All of the designs can be laminated on your substrate of choice; chipboard, MDF or dp-lite and are available on Decorative Panels Lamination’s short lead times.

Innovation in design is always at the forefront of Decorative Panels minds with continual development in the latest surface textures and finishes. The latest addition of innovative products introduced by Decorative Panels is Acrylic Mirror. dp’s new acrylic capped PET mirror provides superb reflective qualities giving the performance of a traditional mirror in many applications.

Unlike traditional mirrors this material will not crack or shatter so it is an ideal material for situations where safety is a priority or when mirrors are transported flat pack.

Book a visit to the dp-group Marketing Suite where these and many more products are on permanent display and keep looking out for the latest development from dp, new designs are coming out all the time.

Showcasing some of the many design samples offered at Decorative Panels

Decorative Panel’s customer sample library See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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INSTALLATION

High End, Bespoke Kitchen and Joinery Specialist Relies on HOMAG BMG 611 Since its inception in 1973, Andrew Ryan Furniture has designed and manufactured high end custom-made furniture, with the emphasis on quality and customer service. To stay competitive, this has required the business to maintain a genuine respect for past traditions, whilst utilising the very latest in new technologies.

Aiden and Dominic Ryan, sons of the founder Andrew Ryan, are chips off the old block and keep right up to date with trends in style, materials, techniques and finishes.

“Our customers are looking for something truly different, something which stands out from the crowd,” enthuses Aiden Ryan.

He continues, “We adore what we do and love to create kitchens and furniture that are visually inspirational with curved doors and unusual features.

“That’s why we have such a great affection for HOMAG equipment.

The new BMG 611 is an incredible piece of kit. Not only has it has opened the door for us to win very complex, large kitchen and joinery projects, but more importantly, it gives us the confidence and ability to deliver these jobs cost effectively.”

Fast, reliable and versatile “What stands out for me is the simplicity of the machine and software package. The BMG 611 is a fine piece of German engineering which we were able to tailor to our specific needs. The HOMAG teams, both in the UK and in Germany, were so helpful in making sure we arrived at the right specification for our needs.

When we went over to Germany to see the machine in action they asked us lots of

30 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

pertinent questions and really listened to what we had to say. There was no hard sell to get us to buy additional features; they were totally focused on making sure the final spec of the machine was such that it would enable us to produce everything we wanted, quickly and efficiently.

“The table on the BMG is very versatile.

It offers both pod and rail, and nesting

complex work we do. For example, we won a contract for a beautiful old stately home in Ireland and the contract included the need to recreate some carvings from the 1700s and incorporate them into the library furniture.

“Having the BMG

facilities which gives us huge flexibility in our production. As I mentioned earlier, we design and produce very intricate one-off kitchens and joinery and the BMG enables us to manufacture truly bespoke and unusual curved shapes and oversized doors in one pass. ” The 72 slot tool changer really helps us with this type of work; it provides us with the ability to make extremely fast tool changes saving us a lot of time and money.

This is so important given the amount of

we didn’t hesitate to take on the project. We took mouldings to the local university to have 3D scans done; once completed we took the code from the scans and inputted them into the BMG. The machine then carved out exactly what we needed using the tools we already had from the tool changer. It was so easy and the client was delighted.”

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

INSTALLATION

The need for a new machine “We’ve used 4- and 5-axis machines for a long time now and although initially it took us a while to realise the benefits and capabilities, particularly of the 5-axis machines, they have really freed up our creativity. The decision to invest in the new HOMAG BMG 611 was a simple one.

“Our original 5-axis model was probably 10 years old and of course, since then, machinery has moved on. Looking ahead, we wanted to have the very latest technology at our disposal so we researched the market to see what was available.

“In the final analysis, it came down to two machines which seemed to fit the bill. There was a significant price difference between the two models but HOMAG, and in particular Derek Reid, demonstrated a real willingness to listen to our unique requirements and craft a deal that met our needs. This included putting together a five year finance

package which proved to be a very simple, smooth process to complete.

High expectations – met and exceeded “The BMG 611 is the fourth piece of equipment we’ve bought from HOMAG UK. We already have a BRANDT edgebander, a HOLZMA beam saw and a WEEKE 4-axis CNC machine, all of which have been reliable and performed extremely well. As a consequence, I had very high expectations for the HOMAG BMG. “I have to say, however, that it has delivered everything I had hoped for and a bit more. Having all the machines from the same manufacturer makes life much easier for our operatives who can move easily from one machine to another without difficulty.

“As a consequence, we now have a higher output of more complex work, with set up and job changeover time almost eliminated.

Once we have spent time programming the work it tends to come out right first time, there’s very little messing about or timeconsuming fine tuning needed.”

Business benefits “Overall we are delighted with the HOMAG BMG 611. It is a bespoke machine that suits our needs and almost has no real restrictions in its woodworking capabilities.

The extra ‘z’ clearance is very important to us as it enables us to manufacture with ease oversized carved pieces in one pass.

“The BMG saves us both time and money whilst giving us the confidence to take on ever more complex and intricate work. It supports our need to handle small runs very efficiently and accurately.

“As for the service we get from HOMAG UK and Derek Reid, it is first class. Everyone is very friendly and eager to help. It is a joy working with them as it is with the machine itself,” concludes Aiden Ryan.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of any HOMAG CNC machines, please contact Adele Dixon at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.

For further information: Tel: 01332 856500 Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk www.homag-uk.co.uk

The 5-axis HOMAG BMG 611 CNC machining centre

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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CNC ROUTERS AXYZ Routers Now Provide 366,918 Different Machine Configurations Today, manufacturers are constantly looking for suppliers of products that offer a winning combination of high productivity and increased profitability. For example, in the industrial woodworking, furniture production, joinery and panel processing industries that operate within a particularly competitive climate, supplying a limited range of CNC routers is no longer acceptable.

For this reason, AXYZ International has developed a technically advanced manufacturing facility that is said to be capable of producing distinctive one-off bespoke machines as fast as other manufacturers can build standard off-the-shelf machines.

AXYZ International understands that each industry requires a wide choice of machine options that offer multiple processing areas and routing head configurations to accommodate a wider range of different applications. In consequence, the company is now able to deliver a staggering 366,918 standard machine configurations to enable all of its customers, regardless of the industry in which they operate, to have the best possible platform for business development and profitability.

From a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, AXYZ International designs, manufactures and supplies customised routing and cutting solutions under its AXYZ and Pacer power brands, with all of the various components built in-house.

This ensures that quality control is localised, consistent uninterrupted performance guaranteed and customisation simplified to enable the delivery of machines within what are said to be the shortest possible manufacturing lead times.

For the woodworking-related industries, the preferred machines are those in the 4000, 5000 and 6000 series, with a marked predilection for the 5000 series that features a larger capacity automatic

32 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

tool change (ATC) facility, pop-up location pins and a pneumatic or multi-head drill.

The 5000 series also offers an extended (up to 12 metres) cutting length capability and triple routing heads that are designed to allow pendulum processing for continuous machine operation and maximum throughput speed. Dedicated design and programming software and a host of optional production tools enable a high degree of machine configurability for high-volume production.

For applications involving plastics and their derivatives, AXYZ International offers its Pacer heavy-duty machines as alternative solutions. These are renowned for their inherent strength and robust construction that enable the elimination of machine vibration and thus to a much more precise cutting capability on and perfect edge finish to these materials.

A particular strength of AXYZ International is its ability to offer machine configurations that will accommodate virtually any manufacturing requirement.

These configurations incorporate both standard and optional production tools, different processing areas and cutting

head options to enable materials in virtually any length and width to be processed. These options include a choice of single or dual gantries, each offering two carriages incorporating up to three cutting heads in any combination of router and cutting tool/s (routing spindles, knives and drills), with the option of an automatic tool change facility.

For more information: Tel: 01902 375662 Email: enquiries@axyz.com www.axyz.com

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

A COMPLETE RANGE OF 3, 4, & 5 AXIS CNC ROUTERS MANUFACTURED TO THE HIGHEST QUALITY FOR PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY

EFFICIENCY SQUARED. THE NEW VOLLMER VGRIND 160

Whatever your requirements Onsrud has a solution ATA ENGINEERING PROCESSES Tel: 01442 264411 Fax 01442 231383 Email sales@ataeng.com

vis

it

no

w

www.ataeng.com www.cronsrud.com

& JOINERY

PRODUCTION

It’s only a click away www.p-j-production.com • On-line magazine • Quick and easy access • Fast and efficient for news & information in the Woodworking sector • Website Directory To advertise on the website • Video presentations Please contact Ernie Hollister Tel: 0208 366 3331 Email: ernie@p-j-production.com www.p-j-production.com

The one-of-a-kind, multi-level machining of the Vgrind 160 uses two vertically arranged grinding spindles to provide the highest standard of efficiency for the production of solid carbide tools. Further highlights include its sophisticated wall design for optimum accessibility and clear viewing, flexible automation solutions and tried and tested operating software. Are you ready for precision at its best?

www.vgrind.com VOLLMER UK LTD. // Orchard Park Ind. Estate // Town Street Sandiacre // Nottingham NG10 5BP info-uk@vollmer-group.com // Phone: +44 115 9491040

INSTALLATION Putney Bridge is Kept Safe with Smartply SmartPly SiteProtect was utilised as hoarding to protect the public from the essential works carried out at Putney Bridge, London. The hoarding, which was erected during the repairs, separated the site from the public thoroughfare, enabling the pedestrians and traffic to stay safe before the full reopening of the bridge on the 26th September.

SmartPly SiteProtect was the ideal material to surround the Grade II listed structure while it underwent the waterproofing works. It is a smooth, heavyduty exterior coated panel designed for hardwearing, demanding applications, such as this river site. The highly engineered and moisture resistant OSB3 panel is specifically designed to save both time and money with its easy installation and cost

34 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

effective pre-coated surface.

300 panels were supplied in the standard size of 2440 x 1220mm at 18mm thickness for the hoarding surrounding the site. The temporary hoarding did not need additional protection before being erected as the precoated panel is robust enough to withstand the weathering elements of the river. As all SmartPly OSB3 panels are fully FSC certified and manufactured using zero added formaldehyde resins, they are the environmentally responsible wood panel choice. In addition these panels carry the CE mark, in accordance with the Construction Products Regulation and are EUTR compliant, thus enabling contractors to use with confidence.

HFD Limited hoarding contractors supplied the SiteProtect through the main contractor FM Conways. Pierre Ely at HFD

said: “SiteProtect was the smart choice for the hoarding due to its durability. This is a historically important site that is used by thousands of people on a daily basis, the SmartPly panel is easy to cut and handle making assembly of the hoarding quick and simple, for efficient protection.�

For further information: www.smartply.com or follow @SmartplyOSB

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

INSTALLATION

From Gothic to Glorious Osmo UK’s eco-friendly UVProtection-Oil has been used to safeguard, restore and rejuvenate a Gothic Revival porch at an 18thCentury listed property in Cambridgeshire.

The porch had been deteriorating for some time but after an incident with a lorry, the owners decided it was time to restore it. Andrew and Mark Hoskins, antique restoration specialists, brought it back to life and reinstated it to its former glory, using Osmo’s UV-Protection-Oil to not only protect the wood, but also to enhance its natural beauty.

“The woodwork repairs were a real jigsaw of reusing everything possible. We needed to replace about half of the timber and used much of the original wood for patching up joints and decorative details. Once work was complete, we needed a product that would protect the wood as well as maintain its beauty,” commented Mark Hoskins.

To preserve the character and integrity of the whole house, it was important that as much of the original porch as possible was kept. This also meant that the wood, old and new, needed substantial protection to prolong its longevity.

Andrew and Mark Hoskins have, in the past, mainly worked with linseed oil.

However, after finding out more about Osmo, they decided to try out Osmo UVProtection-Oil. The existing varnish was scraped and sanded by hand before a clear wood preservative was applied as a foundation. Once dry, two coats of UVProtection-Oil were applied with a brush and cloth. A combination of clear, cedar, oak, walnut, rosewood and patina grey tints was used.

It is common knowledge that weather can have a damaging effect on wood.

Whether it is the wood cracking and peeling, or fading to grey as a result of the harmful effect of the sun, or being susceptible to algae and fungal decay

from exposure to water and winter weather conditions, the wood requires an effective protection layer. Osmo developed UV-Protection-Oil to address this issue. By integrating clear UV protection into an oil-based pigment-free finish, which it ensures the natural appearance of the wood is maintained.

Osmo UV-Protection-Oil is a satin-matt, clear finish designed for interior and exterior application. Based on natural oil, the finish does not crack, flake, peel

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

or blister. It is moisture regulating and reduces swelling and shrinking of the wood.

For more information: Osmo: Tel: 01296 481 220 www.osmouk.com, Andrew and Mark Hoskins www.andrewandmarkhoskins.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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PROFILE - SAWS

Salvador Success Story Daltons Wadkin provide crosscutting technology and installations across the UK They say success leads to success and the number of Salvador crosscutting installations within the UK is increasing almost day by day. Indeed UK distributors Daltons Wadkin feel they are breaking the mould and changing thinking when it comes to improving crosscutting performance and production levels.

Alex Dalton commented, “Every time we complete a Salvador installation there seems to be another prospect just around the corner. The Salvador straight and angle cutting machines which are fully programmable with automatic infeed and outfeed are going into a variety of industries, indeed anywhere where fast accurate crosscutting performance is required. Typical users to date include furniture and joinery manufacturers, timber merchants, sawmills and pallet and case makers and we are achieving sales in all parts of the country from the South and South West of England, Wales, the Midlands, the North and Scotland.”

Daltons Wadkin feel this is a major success story backed up by an Italian manufacturer with high ambition and a determination to provide the highest ethical and quality standards. Alex says, “Salvador

are a similar family run business to our own and the partnership between us works extremely well. The result is that we not only have total confidence in the product but also a relationship with the manufacturer which enables us to provide the highest level of customer support both in terms of often bespoke crosscutting solutions and importantly product reliability and performance.”

The Salvador Crosscuts incorporate a full

range of optimising and defecting machines, whether for cutting to length and/or angle cutting, with large cutting capacities in terms of depth, width and material length and a host of automatic infeed and outfeed options.

For further information: Tel: 0115 986 5201 www.daltonswadkin.com

Super Angle Programmable Automatic Crosscutting System from Salvador

36 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

INSTALLATION - SAWS

When Pre-Owned Can be as Good as New If you are having to watch the cash flow situation, sometimes buying a refurbished second-hand woodworking machine from a reputable supplier can make sound economic sense.

T.M. Machinery, sole UK agent for the renowned Striebig range of vertical panel saws, is a leading supplier of used machines.

Said director Matt Pearce: “We only supply second-hand Striebig machines that we are sure will give our customers many more years of reliable service.

“They all undergo a comprehensive refurbishment with older machines being completely stripped down so that all bearings and other parts subject to wear can be replaced. Our confidence in our refurbished machinery is such that it is backed up by a six-month parts and labour warranty.”

Clayton Cabinets bought a refurbished four-year-old Striebig Compact vertical

panel saw to replace an elderly beam saw.

The saw is used to cut carcass materials such as Birch ply, MDF veneered board and block board. It was supplied with an optional scoring blade for sizing veneered and Melamine panels and a 400mm strip cutting gauge.

“As a small business I need to watch the pennies,” said owner Nick Clayton.

“Because I did not want to borrow from the bank I was perfectly happy to go for a good, used machine.”

In need of a high quality, durable saw for the best price they could find, a faculty at the University of the West of England in Bristol chose a three-year-old Striebig Compact vertical panel machine.

The saw is used in the design workshops within the Faculty of the Environment and Technology (FET) where it sizes thin sheet ply and MDF sheet material, up to 16mm thick.

Westframe, designers and manufacturers of bespoke timber frame homes, bought a

two-year-old Striebig Control model.

It replaced an old and overworked saw which was not very reliable or robust enough for the job of cutting OSB and plywood sheets.

T.M. supplied them a totally reconditioned machine that had around only 35 hours on the clock and which cost 30% less than a brand new model.

Usually specifying new equipment, interior display and shop fitting specialist IDESS Retail Ltd bought a three-year-old Striebig Control model to size standard and laminated MDF panels and chipboard.

They said they did not regret buying second-hand on this occasion as the saw was practically indistinguishable from a brand new model, and they saved money in the process.

For further information: Tel: 0116 271 7155 Email: sales@tmservices.co.uk www.tmmachinery.co.uk

Clayton Cabinets bought a refurbished four-year-old Striebig Compact vertical panel saw/beam saw.

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MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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INSTALLATION - SAWS Gibraltar Joinery Look To The UK ‘Rock solid’ support from Daltons Wadkin When George Federico of Gibraltar Joinery and Building Services Ltd made the journey from the ‘Rock’ to a Daltons Wadkin open day in Nottingham last July the comprehensive outcome with regard to the re-equipping of their workshops was little envisaged.

The company responded to a mailshot from Alex Dalton and after viewing the many machines in their showrooms and subsequent visits to Gibraltar by Sales Director Andy Walsh orders were placed for an initial batch of five machines including a new Stenner ST100R Resaw, Salvador Classic 50 Up-cut Crosscut Saw, Sedgwick Tenoner, Wadkin 5-Series Wide Belt Sander and BEL Spindle Moulder together with an entirely new dust extraction system by The Woodwork Dust Control Company. This was all tied in with a requirement for Daltons Wadkin engineers to travel to Gibraltar to install and commission the equipment and also carry out upgrading and on-site servicing on their existing machines.

The new machines were delivered in November and the engineering team followed soon after to carry out the necessary work on site with just time to enjoy a quick look around Gibraltar at the same time!

More business is currently being

Wadkin 5-Series Wide Belt Sander supplied by Daltons Wadkin

38 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

View of Gib from the rock

negotiated including further service work and the proposed installation of several more new machines to replace the older items in Gibraltar Joinery’s extensive workshops.

Accordingly further visits to Gibraltar will be required by Daltons Wadkin engineers (which they are not complaining about) and from Gibraltar Joinery’s point of view they were delighted to find that Daltons Wadkin could meet all their requirements with high profile quality equipment and at the same time provide all the additional services they required ... a ‘one stop shop’ in effect.

Sales Director Andy Walsh commented, “It is not every day you get a sales opportunity like the one provided by Gibraltar Joinery. It is a most interesting destination for our products and it was a pleasure to be able to visit and negotiate with Michael Estella and George Federico during my visit to Gibraltar.”

Gibraltar Joinery provide timber and bespoke joinery and building services throughout Gib and adjoining areas in Spain. They are contractors to the dockyards and other public sector

industries and occupy an important place in Gibraltar’s commercial activities.

Stenner 100R Resaw installed by Daltons Wadkin at the Gibraltar Joinery workshops

For further information: Tel: 0115 986 5201 www.daltonswadkin.com

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CASE STUDY

Blind Test Victory Well-known German kitchenmanufacturers Anawood produce furniture-components in Zwönitz. Their new widebelt sander was chosen in a blind test on account of the best sanding results.

Joiners are easy to recognise by the typical movement of their hands – they lovingly stroke every edge to feel if it was well sanded.

When the German furniture component manufacturer Anawood needed a new widebelt sanding machine, management and staff submitted all brands to a blind test. The clear winner was a Kündig.

Manufactured components, for example furniture doors and drawer parts, enjoy increasing popularity with both domestic and commercial customers: “Indeed, joiners today require an excellent surface quality and perfect spraying”, states Volkmar Daubner, founder of the furniture component manufacturer Anawood in Zwönitz, near Chemnitz in Saxon. A walk through his factory with 25 employees makes it immediately clear what he means by that. The most important part of production in Anawood above all is Sanding; sand and sand again. Large and small sanding machines are running everywhere. Every small detail is worked on fastidiously – if necessary also by hand: “We indeed have a very high portion of manual labour. Breaking the edges is rather unusual with industrial production. However, joiners undertake such detailed work – even if they prefer of course that we do this timeconsuming work for them.” Meticulously crafted work is one of his best sales arguments, smiles Mr Daubner..

Operator Jan Leichsenring likes the trouble-free handling of ‘his’ Kündig Brilliant-3 CCd-X-LL: “I work primarily with presets which can be adapted very quickly to every job.”

The manufacturing plant which was established in 2005 had to be extended in 2009. Sanding and spraying equipment play a central role. When it became necessary to replace their aged wide-belt sander, Mr Daubner and his crew drew up a list of required specifications: “Then we tested numerous machines on the market with sample works.” During the search he encountered the Swiss precision sanding machine manufacturer Kündig: “I did not know Kündig at all, but then we also tested this machine”, Mr Daubner reports.

One can appreciate that, however, only subjectively: “So we sent specimens everywhere and then compared them without knowing which machine they came from – a real blind test.” The clear result surprised him: “My employees have chosen the sanding quality of Kündig as the clear winner – unanimously, without exception.” The economic advantages of Kündig wide-belt sanders further sweetened this fact for him: “The abrasives really last a very long time.”

Kündig’s exclusive oblique sanding technique has real benefits for him because the abrasives clog less and therefore remain usable for longer periods of time than usual.

His Kündig Brilliant-3 1350 CCd-X-LL is equipped with two combination- heads with electronic segmental sanding pads. One of them can be tilted 10° for oblique sanding. In addition, a cross-belt aggregate, with variable speeds for lacquer sanding, completes the possibilities. The impressively equipped machine is extremely reliable, says Mr Daubner: When he calculates how many parts are run by the Kündig wide-belt sander, even Mr Daubner is surprised: “These are from 45,000 to 50,000 parts per year which

are sanded on average three times . Well, then in fact it is extremely reliable.”

Also the aftercare by Ragnar London of Kündig appeals to Mr Daubner: “It is a pleasing co-operation.” He summarises by saying: “The sanding quality is really good.

We need a lot less abrasives. And the result of our tests has also been confirmed in practice.”

Anawood makes furniture doors, drawer parts and ornamental parts out of solid wood or with veneers in industrial numbers.

The machine is equipped with two combination heads, one of which is fitted for oblique sanding, plus a cross-belt head.

Every produced part passes through the Kündig several times. Thanks to her power she has no bottleneck

For further information: Tel: 0845 833 0565 Email: sales@kundig.co.uk www.kundig.co.uk

Volkmar Daubner

40 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

PROFILE

Sliding into 2015 with Glidor As a manufacturer of kitchen doors and bedroom doors, BA Components knew it made perfect sense to launch their latest range-Glidor. Always keen to meet the needs of customers through new product development, BA Components have made the step into the world of sliding doors.

Glidor is a custom made, fitted sliding door solution. In the last 10 years, the UK home has shrunk by 2 square metres and with this comes a growing demand for better storage solutions. 1 in 5 homes are being modified to create more space due to over crowding and more processions, so

with this in mind BA Components want to make those lives a bit easier with Glidor.

With Glidor this is exactly what you get as it can be used not only in the bedroom but also in the living room, home office and every area in the home. With three ranges; Glidor Urban, Ultra and Unique and over 60 colours to choose from, Glidor will definitely catch your eye.

David Caulfield Sales and Marketing Director told us “We have many very loyal bedroom dealers and for quite some time they've been asking us for a sliding solution to complete the BA Bedroom offer. We wanted to produce something innovative,

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

interesting and offering a wide choice of both colour and texture. Glidor ticks all those boxes."

This sleek new range is available now and can be viewed online at www.byba.co.uk/glidor or you can download a brochure at www.byba.co.uk/brochures

For further information: Tel: 028 8676 4600

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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EVENTS

SCM Groups “Doors and Windows” Technology Days are a Resounding Success The SCM Group's “Doors and Windows Technology Days”, held in Rimini between 5th and 7th February, delivered on their promise and turned out to be a welcome event for information, training and idea exchange opportunity for the many door and window manufacturers who descended upon SCM's factories from all over Italy and many foreign countries too, particularly from the UK, North, Central and Eastern Europe, the United States, Japan, Malaysia and North Africa.

Over 300 businesses attended the event, from small joinery manufacturers who wanted to familiarise themselves with numeric control technology through to large businesses that were interested in

larger production volumes, new types of finishes and higher overall process quality.

All this was possible due to the presence of a wide range of new solutions, which has always been the Group's hallmark.

The main focus of the event, however, were the CNC processing centres of the “Accord” range, with the “Accord 30 FX” and “Accord 40 FX-M” models and also the “Accord WD” cell, which have long set a new benchmark for excellence at a global level.

In Rimini, the Company previewed the brand new “Accord 25 FX” model, a 5-axis processing centre with enhanced performance in terms of maximum component machining height and operator safety. An extremely versatile machine for the manufacturing of doors and windows,

but also staircases or solid wood kitchens.

“The new “Accord FX” range model – stated Gianni Franchini, Manager of the SCM Group's Housing Business Unit – was developed on the basis of the growing appetite for CNC machining centres shown by small to medium size joinery manufacturers. This is a model designed to deliver maximum performance with the lowest possible investment. A powerful, versatile processing centre with an extremely accelerated learning curve, due to software programs that are increasingly easier to use and programme the CNC. Accord 25 FX boasts a high work piece passage, a reduced floor footprint, greater ease of loading and unloading, high tool magazine capacity, maximum tool and working unit accessibility, coupled with

SCM ACCORD 40 CNC maching centre at Tech Days

42 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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EVENTS

utmost reliability. We have taken the best of the entire “Accord” range and have concentrated it in an simple productive machine" concludes Franchini.

The new-generation software programs create new opportunities and enable even small and medium enterprises to work with extremely easy programming, leveraging the capabilities of 5-axis processing centres in a perfect way. In other words, new opportunities are now accessible to every company, easily and within very short time scales.

During the “Doors and Windows Technology Days”, due to numerous special demonstrations of door and window specific software programmes, visitors were able to experience the immediate, precision and control with which the machine can “launch new work programs” to achieve finished products of impeccable quality.

All this has been made possible by “Xilog Maestro” processing centre software and its specific modules: “Maestro WD”, the parametric application software to design and manufacture doors and windows; the new “Maestro 3D”, developed to design and process three-dimensional surfaces; “Proview”, the simulator for the real-time visualisation of work piece and machine parts, and “MSL”, the interface that enables the dialogue with external management software, importing data directly into Xilog Maestro. A full “package” that makes any

SCM’s New ACCORD 25 FX CNC maching centre at the Tech Days

type of machining operation extremely easy.

Finishing innovations is a segment in which the SCM Group restated its capability during the Technology Days by showcasing the new SCM “Sandya 900” roller conveyor with a super-finishing unit, which can deliver the best smoothing performance for doors and windows. This is over and above the possibilities offered by the DMC “System”, a veritable finishing “centre” that, thanks to its multi-functional planetary unit, enables users to perform many machining operations such as finishing, smoothing, brushing and

“structuring” of doors and windows.

With respect to finishing, the new Superfici “Mini” Automatic “Plug and Spray” spraying machine, which is ideal for managing small batches, aroused everybody's interest. It is a complete, integrated solution that only requires a modest investment.

“During these three days – added Mr Franchini – we put on the table our experience, which is the result of our vocation for the wood, door and window segments of the market in particular, and our ability to translate our know-how about door and window manufacturing processes into technologies, software programmes and products that guarantee results. These results are only possible – I would like to stress it again – because of our choice of working with our customers in their day-today activities and always being close to them, as this is the only way of finding new ideas and solutions together!”

For further information: Tel: 0115 9770044 Email: scmgroupuk@scmgroup.com www.scmgroup-uk.com SCM ACCORD 40 CNC maching centre at Tech Days See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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CASE STUDY

BÜTFERING SWT 345 Sander – Better, Faster, Stronger For Peter Thompson of York Bespoke joinery company, Peter Thompson of York, is located just north of the city in the sleepy hamlet of Sutton On Forest. With a heritage spanning nearly 40 years, the company designs, hand-crafts and installs some of the country’s most amazing kitchens, interiors, floors and staircases.

The business specialises in creating products predominantly out of solid hardwoods such as oak, walnut, maple and mahogany, all sourced from sustainable forests. “Our clients are discerning people and they demand a top quality product backed up with first class service,” claims Robert Thompson, the company’s managing director. He continues, “Given the nature of the materials we work with, we have to invest in heavy-duty equipment that can handle these tough hardwoods.

“In our business, the finish is exceptionally important. This meant when it came to selecting a sander for the company we had to make sure it could do a first class job. Our old sander had served us well for the last 18 years or so, but it was very slow and expensive to run.

“So, in 2013 we started looking for a replacement. There were several brands that caught our eye, but in the end we opted for a BÜTFERING SWT 345 four head machine. We had initially discounted BÜTFERING as we thought they’d be expensive, but HOMAG UK came to the table late in the day and offered us a great deal on a bespoke four head machine.

“Being a bespoke specification, we weren’t able to see the machine in action before we bought it, so it was a bit of a leap of faith. Given BÜTFERING’s reputation, however, we were confident it would perform to very high standards and now it is installed, it is doing just that.”

Better quality, lower running costs “We wanted a four head machine so we could complete work in one pass. The BÜTFERING is three times faster than our old machine at processing a set of doors yet the quality of the finish is superb.

“We are also saving money on sanding belts. The BÜTFERING SWT 345 is very efficient on belt usage, so we don’t have to change them so often which also means we have less machine downtime.”

Advanced features but simple to operate “The HOMAG engineer trained our staff on the BÜTFERING sander at our premises. Although it is a very advanced machine, it is simple to operate using the HOMAG software and touch screen controls.

“Our craftsmen quickly got to grips with the potential of the machine, so from day one we were getting the best out of it for our customers.”

44 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

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CASE STUDY

Fast and efficient The BÜTFERING SWT 345

A knowledgeable and helpful team One of the major benefits of dealing with the global market leader is the knowledge and expertise they bring to the party. From HOMAG UK’s sales and support staff to the service engineers, there is a genuine desire to help; they listen to their customers comments and act on them. They want a long-term relationship and always go out of their way to give the best business advice.

Robert Thompson concludes, “The BÜTFERING SWT 345 has certainly met our expectations. It has delivered a new level of quality, it’s fast and it’s efficient which is exactly what we were looking for in a wide belt sander.”

If you would like more information or a demonstration of any of the BÜTFERING sanders and control software please contact Adele Dixon on 01332 856424.

For further information: Tel: 01332 856500 Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk www.homag-uk.co.uk

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

45

TOOLING Vollmer Launches New Circular Saw Grinding Machine For the universal sharpening of carbide tipped circular saw blades up to 840 and with the option of 1300mm diameter, Vollmer has now launched its new line of CHP840 and CHP1300 grinding centres. The next generation grinding centre has four CNCcontrolled axes for the accurate grinding and polishing of virtually all tooth geometries in a single cycle.

This groundbreaking new grinding concept delivers ease of use with an ingenious new multi-function hand wheel and programs for use in the aluminium, plastic, wood and the metal cutting sectors.

The result is a new range of machines that provide the perfect combination of precision, productivity and flexibility for the universal machining of TCT saw blades from 80 up to 1300mm diameter.

The latest addition to the prestigious Vollmer line has been optimally designed in every conceivable way. This includes a compact footprint to save floor-space, a 10inch LCD colour display with a multifunction hand wheel for fast and safe operation and an operator friendly large viewing window. In addition, the new CHP machines are fully enclosed for maximum safety, noise and emission protection that is on a robust vibration free platform for optimal sharpening performance.

The four axes on the CHP permit the complete machining of all commonly used tooth geometries in a single cycle - this

Vollmer CHP 840

46 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

includes axial angles and group toothing geometries. With oscillation grinding as standard and motor driven hook and clearance angle adjustment, the CHP provides high material removal rates with the flexibility to rapidly switch from face to top grinding. This productivity is further enhanced by an optimum movement coordination for short movements that reduce non-grinding times considerably.

For the saw mill, solid wood and furniture producing sectors, the CHP has diagonally integrated feed pawl with pneumatic lift that ensures even chipper segments pose no problem for the new machine. The new CHP also has a wideopening blade clamping mechanism for processing saws with a collar or reinforcement ring. As an option, the CHP can be supplied with an optional second feed pawl for tooth pitches up to 180mm and a hollow face grinding device for processing hollow face saws.

For the metal cutting market, the CHP840 and CHP 1300 incorporate a powerful motor with a variable grinding speed for a high level of grinding efficiency that can optimise the process and machining parameters. Specifically for the metal cutting sector, the CHP has an adjustable grinding barrel for the flexible machining of chip-breakers whilst the software includes negative tooth face geometries and chip breaker machining as standard. This remarkable flexibility permits chip guide notching, negative hook angle machining and chip breaker machining as well as bevel angle grinding on TCT and HSS saws with the storage of up to 4000 programs possible in the machine control database.

The new CHP marks the arrival of a new operating philosophy for Vollmer with its multi-functional hand-wheel that makes work easier and faster. It ensures the axes are controlled by only one module.

This prevents the possibility of incorrect operation and the wheel can also be used as a potentiometer to conduct speed and feed adjustments in automatic mode. Errors are also minimised by the feed pawl sensor system that

Vollmer CHP 840 processing TCT Blades

Vollmer CHP 840 polishes the complete TCT saw blade

eliminates the need for tooth pitch input, whilst the automatic adjustment of the hook and clearance angle through digital detection also avoids operator errors.

As with all next generation Vollmer machines, the new CHP guarantees to reduce costs, cycle times and environmental impact whilst simultaneously improving flexibility, productivity, efficiency, precision, quality and above all profitability.

For further information: Tel: 0115 949 1040 Email: admin-uk@vollmer-group.com www.vollmer-group.com

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

The ultimate sanding machine Standard working widths: 650 mm, 1,100 mm, 1,350 mm and 1,600 mm (1,900 mm and 2,200 mm available on request).

All machines have a fixed working height (it is the sanding group that adjusts from 3-200 mm with 400 mm available on request).

Enormatic ‘smartset’ standard on all machines for ease of setting and registering off the highest point across the full working width.

All machines now incorporate ‘Eco’ energy saving mode.

All machines have both colour touchscreen and manual control elements.

For solid wood, veneer and lacquer sanding.

Choice of cutterblock, combi unit, calibrating roller, standard pad, electronic segmental pads and cross belts for veneer or high gloss.

Premium: Traditional style straight line sanders with 1 to 3 sanding heads for solid wood and veneer sanding.

Brilliant: For the utmost in surface finish using oblique sanding technology where at least one of the sanding heads is placed to give a shear cut across the surface effectively cutting away surface fibres, eliminating oscillation marks whilst giving a flatter surface and suitable for solid wood, veneer and lacquer sanding.

Available with single or multiple sanding heads.

TECHNIC RANGE Technic CNC

For heavy stock removal and for shaping the surface

Technic BOTOP

Top/bottom sanding machines

Technic Precision

Sanding accuracy of 0.02 mm

Contact us for the latest developments in wide belt sanding technology

Kündig Ltd

Tel 0845 833 0565 Fax 0845 833 0567 Email sales@kundig.co.uk www.kundig.co.uk

WOODWASTE New Biomass Boiler Quietly Delivers RHI Payments to Rural Company Wood Waste Technology has recently installed one of its new biomass hot water boiler systems to a company located in a very quiet area of rural Shropshire.

The boiler was installed into Venables Brothers Limited, a timber merchant and joinery manufacturing company in Market Drayton that specialises in buying, sawmilling, processing and working oak and other European hardwoods.

Brothers Paul and Chuck Venables started to look at biomass heating options for their business a few years ago, in order to save money on waste disposal and heating bills.

They purchased a WT15 from Wood Waste Technology in September 2010, which has served the company well and is still operational today.

However in 2014 the brothers heard about the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and discovered they could qualify for generous RHI payments by purchasing one of Wood Waste Technology’s biomass boilers. As well as providing heating for the factory, and heating and domestic hot water for the rest of the building, the new boiler would also enable the company to create a ‘climate room’ where they could season special oaks in a fraction of the usual time.

The Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) offers substantial financial benefits to companies who invest in new biomass technology, for example, the scheme is worth around £20,000 - £25,000 on average a year to a company fitting a WW199 boiler, and runs for 20 years once accredited.

Wood Waste Technology’s boilers have been designed and tested to BSEN303-5-2012, the highest standard for efficiency and emissions, allowing customers to maximise their return from the RHI scheme by getting more money from every kilogram of fuel burnt.

The new boiler was installed into Venables Brothers in summer 2014 into its own boiler house just next to the factory, and uses strategically placed air handling units to distribute the warm air from the boiler to the factory to keep the 20 employees warm throughout winter.

As the factory is situated in such a quiet

48 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

Te WT15 Biomass Boiler installed at Venables Brothers Ltd

rural location, the team at Wood Waste Technology were able to ensure that the background noise from the boiler was less than 40 decibels (which about the same volume as being in a library, and quieter than bird song which is 44 dB). They achieved this by implementing quiet sound technology, using Wood Waste Technology’s exclusive specially designed biomass fans. The noise levels were even further reduced by soundproofing the boiler house with sound absorbing panels (technology which is normally used in engine rooms), so it effectively made a semi-anechoic chamber. As a result, the owners and other local residents who only live around 100m from the boiler house are unable to hear the boiler at night, even with their windows open!

The new boiler gives the company many benefits in addition to free heating and waste disposal. It has reduced the manual handling of wood waste, as the wood off cuts are shredded, then air transported to a large silo that automatically feeds the boiler when required. It also makes the workshop tidier, as the sawdust that accumulates from production simply gets fed into the boiler to burn.

Director, Paul Venables says: “I would

definitely recommend Wood Waste Technology and the new biomass boiler. As a company they are very professional, always courteous, and continually deliver what they promise. The boiler is making a positive difference to the way we work, as well as allowing us to generate extra income from the RHI scheme.”

Wood Waste Technology’s years of expertise in wood waste solutions have helped many companies reduce their waste disposal and heating costs. As well as offering site survey, design, manufacture, installation and on-going maintenance for new units, the company also services all types of wood waste heaters and supplies genuine spares up to 60% cheaper than other suppliers.

In addition, Wood Waste Technology is the UK official distributor for Gross Apparatebau GmbH, a German manufacturer of dependable, precision engineered shredders and briquetters, available in various size and specifications to suit all business applications.

For further information: Tel: 01785 250400 www.woodwastetechnology.com www.grossuk.co.uk

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

USED MACHINERY Striebig takes centre stage at Royal Shakespeare Company When the manager of the scenic workshop at the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford-upon-Avon had to decide recently which make of vertical panel saw should replace an elderly model, he plumped for a Striebig Compact.

The workshop is housed in a large, modern building in Stratford Enterprise Park on the outskirts of the town. It is here that a 70strong highly skilled team, which includes 16 joiners and 12 carpenters plus support staff, produce nearly all of the sets needed for RSC productions staged in its theatres in Stratford as well as in London and other venues.

Scenic Workshop manager Paul Hadland, a veteran of over 30 years with the RSC, said: “The 20-year-old wall saw we had been using was getting past its sell-by date, so after I was given the go-ahead to buy a new one I began to look through the internet looking for a suitable replacement. I narrowed down the choice to a Striebig and one other make and came to the conclusion that although the Striebig was the more expensive of the two it was a much better quality machine and ideal for us.”

Following a visit from a representative of T.M. Machinery Sales, the sole UK distributor of the Swiss-made saws, who advised Mr Hadland which model would be best for the

RSC’s specific requirements, Compact model they bought he placed an order for a has a cutting range of 3100 x 2200mm this additional Striebig Compact 4220.

The easy-to-operate saw is laborious task is no longer used by the joiners and necessary. carpenters chiefly to size a Striebig Compact series variety of wood-based panels, machines are available in nine frame sizes to suit all plus the occasional plastic panel. requirements. They feature “One of the main reasons I central support and small parts decided to go for the Striebig support over the entire length was because of the cutting of the saw, making the cutting of small work pieces very easy. accuracy it promised, and I have not been disappointed,” They have a powerful 3.9kW said Mr Hadland. “For motor coupled with a Workshop manager Paul example, each production maximum cutting depth of Hadland is extremely satisfied 60mm, allowing for multiple requires its own stage with the Striebig Compact wall cutting of thin panels. covering, so if any of the saw. sections we make here are out The Compact is suitable for of true by even the smallest amount they will cutting practically all sheet materials, not fit together on site.” including MDF, plaster board, plastics and In addition to improved sizing accuracy aluminium panels. All models are now available in versions incorporating an the Compact has also cut down the time it takes to size the polycarbonate sheeting used automatic cut cycle facility to make them in the sets. “These come in sheet sizes even more productive. measuring 6m long x 2050mm but because they were too big to go on to the old saw, For further information: which could only cope with a maximum Tel: 0116 271 7155 sheet height of 1900mm, we had to Email: sales@tmservices.co.uk manually saw a strip off each one so that it www.tmmachinery.co.uk would then fit on,” said Mr Hadland. As the

F O R A C L E A N E R E N V I R O N M E N TA L F U T U R E At Dust Pollution Systems, we have been busy systemizing spot extraction in the industrial working environments. Our systems cover all aspects and working methods from the small, mobile dust extractors to large turnkey stationary industrial installations.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALISTS Dust Pollution Systems Limited Unit 1 & 2, Premacto Works, Queensmead Road, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks. HP10 9XA Telephone: 01494 462333 Fax: 01494 463777

www.dustpollution.co.uk See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

49

DUST EXTRACTION

All Round Savings for Roundel Dust Control Systems has recently installed an energy-efficient dust extraction system for leading fitted furniture manufacturer, Roundel Manufacturing Ltd. Roundel operate from three manufacturing and distribution centres in Tyne & Wear and specialise in the design, planning and installation of fitted kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture for major retailers and house builders across the UK. The family-owned business was founded in 1969 by present Chairman Geoff Oman and his brother Lindsey, who is Managing Director. From the simple beginnings as a modest kitchen retail shop in South Shields, the business has grown into one of the UK’s premium suppliers of fitted furniture. Today, with a workforce of 175, the company is a supplier to leading industry names, delivering nationwide via its own transport fleet.

As part of its ongoing investment in infrastructure, Roundel has recently expanded the manufacturing capacity of its site at Seaton Burn, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Home to Roundel’s Nixons Kitchens operation the site specialises in the design,

Ecogate Power MASTER® continually adjusts fan speed.

manufacture and installation of bespoke kitchens for the retail sector. Fronted by a prestigious kitchen showroom, the centre has well-equipped workshops which have the full in-house capability to manufacture all aspects of quality cabinetry. The newly

expanded 20,000 sq. ft. facility now provides double the floor space and has seen the introduction of new plant and machinery, and increased warehousing space.

“An essential element in the expansion plan was the need to renew our dust extraction system”, says Roundel’s Senior Factory Manager, Roy Ramshaw. “So, with a long-standing philosophy of constantly looking at ways to conserve energy, we were looking for the most efficient and costeffective methods to deal with the generated wood dust. And, like all our six manufacturing facilities, across the three sites, wood waste would be used to fuel a heating system.”

Melvyn Bathgate, sales director at DCS says: “We were able to put forward a convincing proposal for an energy-efficient dust extraction scheme which featured our ECOGATE energy-saving extraction optimisation system. Furthermore, being a wholly new installation meant we could accurately size the system to considerably

Salerno Black Gloss Kitchen from Roundel Manufacturing.

50 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

DUST EXTRACTION reduce the average volume. We also worked in conjunction with Woodheat Solutions, who installed the heating system and supplied the chipper, to provide a plant layout that would fit into a very limited space at the back of the building.”

The new filter plant consists of an externally sited ATEX approved modular filter unit, with a 37kW main fanset and 15kW waste fan unit. Sized at a capacity of 21,400m3/hr, the high efficiency filter is fitted with antistatic ‘Superbag’ polyester filter bags and includes low-noise, reverse air fan units which maximise filter cleaning efficiency. Waste collected by the filter is discharged via a rotary valve into a closedloop transfer system, which feeds an adjoining storage silo. The main ducting system incorporates an APEX approved CARZ back-pressure flap valve which prevents the effects of a dust explosion from travelling back along ductwork.

Installing ECOGATE on any dust extraction plant means that the overall system can be designed up to 40% smaller than with conventional technology; resulting in an average volume reduction of at least 22%, and providing power savings of more than 50%. The ECOGATE system installed for Roundel comprises a series of Ecogate motorised damper gates and sensors, which are fitted to individual machines in the workshop. A greenBOX® 12 controller detects changes in extraction load, as machines come on or off line, and the speed of the main fan is continually adjusted via an Ecogate Power MASTER® Above: DCS modular filter and fanset neatly installed in limited space.

variable speed drive inverter unit.

Roy Ramshaw adds: “DCS did a lot of detailed planning; ensuring a trouble-free installation which was handled professionally from concept stage, right through to commissioning. And, the bonus is that their engineers conservatively predict we can expect to make significant savings on electricity bills.”

For more information: Tel: 0800 040 7116 www.DCSlimited.co.uk Ecogate greenBOX® 12 controller detects changes in extraction load.

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

MARCH/APRIL 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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WOODWASTE

Devon Furniture Maker Invests In Wood-Fired Heating System Joinery and furniture manufacturer Warren Hughes Furniture has invested in the latest wood wastefired heating system for its timber drying kiln, factory and offices – thanks to Wood Waste Control (Engineering) and the RHI. The family business, based in Tiverton, Devon, specialises in producing bespoke, high-end kitchens, joinery and furniture plus green oak building frames. “We have customers all over the UK – and even as far as Moscow!” said Warren Hughes, who runs the business with wife Wendy. A number of other family members also work in the 20-strong team. “The business is going well and our reputation is growing,” he added.

The company moved into its 14,000 sq ft workshop in Tiverton 15 years ago and also has its own sawmill on a separate site.

Warren has invested heavily in the business – including purchasing the first Resch &3 mobile diesel 1200 Pro bandsaw in the country. He recently turned his attention to updating the company’s dust extraction system.

He said: “For the past 20 years or so we

have always turned to Wood Waste Control (Engineering) for our wood waste requirements. They supplied the heating and dust extraction system for our factory 15 years ago back then and this included a small hot air system for heating.

Wood Waste Control (Engineering) Ltd, based in Bourne End near High Wycombe, is one of the UK’s leading dust extraction specialists and manufactures and supplies a comprehensive range of waste extraction, processing and heating equipment systems.

“The system has been incredibly reliable and valuable to heat the factory and to get rid of the waste shavings,” said Warren.

“But after 15 years it was time to upgrade.

We needed a new hot water system to feed the timber drying kiln and to heat the factory and showrooms.”

The solution developed by Wood Waste Control was based around a 195kW Ranheat woodwaste-burning low pressure hot water boiler with purpose-made air handling unit. The system heats the factory using Sabiana high-level heaters, provides heat to dry painted materials in the spray shop, and feeds a radiator circuit

heating the office and two showrooms.

The hot water cylinder is also now powered by the new wood-fired boiler.

Warren Hughes added: “Also, on our drying kiln we are saving £100 every week in electricity charges, by using hot water from the boiler to dry the green oak gently and carefully. It dries it all out perfectly.

“The kiln was the main driver for the changeover and with the new system we can keep timber costs down and quality high.”

Previously, Warren Hughes Furniture was giving away all the wood waste shavings and sawdust from the sawmill and workshop to local farmers, who collected the loads and used them for animal bedding. Now all of this and any timber wastage from the sawmill that would have been sold off as firewood can be used to heat the premises and processes.

The introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) was a key trigger in enabling the company to go ahead with its plans. “We have been looking at renewable heat equipment for quite a few years and have visited the Laguna show to understand the options. RHI has enabled a company of our size to go for this environmentally-friendly option,” said Warren.

“We are saving on our electricity bill and receive a regular RHI payment which gives a genuine financial return. The overall investment including radiators was around £90,000, but we have calculated that the system will pay for itself within four years.

“Everything is running fine and we are now seeing the benefits. We wish we had done it earlier!”

For further information: Tel: 01628 525290 Fax: 01628 810218 Joinery and furniture manufacturer Warren Hughes Furniture has invested in the latest wood waste-fired heating system from Wood Waste Control for its timber drying kiln, factory and offices.

52 Panel & Joinery Production MARCH/APRIL 2015

See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

Panel & Joinery Production lists the major manufacturers and suppliers to the UK woodworking industry under easy-to-find product headings. If you think that your company should be included in this list, please contact us immediately.

YOUR WEBSITE CAN BE SEEN BY OVER 5,000 READERS OF PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION MAGAZINE IN THE UK & IRELAND AND WORLDWIDE ON OUR WEBSITE WWW.P-J-PRODUCTION.COM

To book your entry: Tel/Fax: 020 8366 3331 e-mail: ernie@p-j-production.com

Brackets (Furniture Fittings)

Panel Handling

Spray Finishing Equipment

Dudley Tool Presswork & Engineering Co. Ltd www.dudley-tool.co.uk

Allwood Machinery Essex Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

ITW Industrial Finishing www.itwifeuro.com

CNC Machinery

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

Tooling

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

Dust Control Systems Cades Ltd www.cadesltd.co.uk WoodWaste Control Engineering Ltd www.w-w-c.co.uk Workplace Safety Mechanical Services www.workplacem.co.uk

Edgebanders Allwood Machinery Essex Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

Pocket Routers ATA Engineering Processes www.ataeng.com

ATA Engineering Process www.ataeng.com Leitz Tooling UK http://shopuk.leitz.org

Presses

Tooltec Ltd www.tooltec.co.uk

Allwood Machinery Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

Throughfeed Drills

Power Tools

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

CD (UK) Ltd www.cdukltd.co.uk

Routers (CNC)

Veneer Cutting & Sanding Equipment

ATA Engineering Processes www.ataeng.com

CD (UK) Ltd www.cdukltd.co.uk

BA Components www.byba.co.uk

AXYZ International www.axyz.co.uk

Veneering Equipment

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

Finishing

Routers (CNC - 5 Axis)

Mirka UK Ltd www.mirka.com/uk

ATA Engineering Processes www.ataeng.com

CD (UK) Ltd www.cdukltd.co.uk

Machining Centres (CNC)

MAKA Machinery UK Ltd www.maka.com

Woodworking Machinery

SCM Group Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

MFC Panel Products VC Industries Ltd www.vciltd.co.uk

Panel Saws (Beam) Allwood Machinery Essex Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

Router Cutters ATA Engineering Processes www.ataeng.com

Sanders (Speed) Allwood Machinery Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

Sanders (Wide Belt) Boere Machinefabriek bv www.boere.nl

Allwood Machinery Essex Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

Wide Belt Sanders, Polishers & Buffing Machines

Biesse Group UK www.biesse.co.uk Felder-Group UK www.felder-group.co.uk Holz-Her www.holzher.com Weinig Group UK www.weinig.com Woodworking Tooling & Machinery Ltd www.wadkinmachinery.com

Kundig Ltd www.kundig.co.uk

Woodworking Machinery (New & Used)

SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

Allwood Machinery Essex Ltd (inc Interwood) www.interwood.co.uk

Solid Surface Processing Equipment

Daltons Wadkin www.daltonswadkin.com

O’Meara, J&C Ltd www.ukpanelsaws.co.uk

CD (UK) Ltd www.cdukltd.co.uk

J&C O’Meara www.ukwoodworkingmachinery.co.uk

Panel Saws (Vertical)

Software

Striebig www.tmpartnership.co.uk

AlphaCam www.planitmanufacturing.co.uk

Wood Burning Equipment

Schelling UK Ltd www.schelling.co.uk

Panel Saws (Sliding Table) SCM Group UK Ltd www.scmgroup-uk.com

WoodWaste Control Engineering Ltd www.w-w-c.co.uk

inspired living interiors see

feel

touch

walk

a range of contemporary decorative materials for wall and oor

refresh

glasen

decotile

interior film

deco foil

Interior Glass Film

Luxury Vinyl Flooring

For Commercial Use

3D Forming Veneers

Call +44 (0)1376 518037 today for information on our product range E: marketing@davidclouting.co.uk W: www.davidclouting.co.uk • David Clouting Ltd. Unit 650, The Hub, Skyline 120, Avenue West, Braintree, Essex CM77 7AA