Panel & Joinery Production - November/December 2015

& JOINERY

PRODUCTION

November/December 2015

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CONTENTS

& JOINERY

PRODUCTION November/December Issue 2015 Published by:

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© Copyright EC Media Services ISSN 2046-4134

CONTENTS 2-4 8 10-11 12 14-15 16 22-23 25 28-29 32 35 36-37 40 42-43 44

News Wood Machine Training Sigma 3 now has the edge with triple FEN UK Installation Cbros And The Felder Range Homag Venture 316 Delivers Huge Productivity Gains Kevin Wright Meets Kevin Wright – Again Coordination Is Key To New Worktop Range PJP Visits Unilin Nimac Beam Saws – A Greek Success Story Increased Production From Kündig Open House Event And Promotion Raise AXYZ Profile Homag Partnership Turns Dreams Into Reality Salvador For Shed Manufacturing DCS Wins Praise At Victory Company Promotes Benefits Of Wood Waste Technology Heaters

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

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL OUR READERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND ADVERTISERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

SPECIAL FEATURES 19-27 30-32 40-44 IBC

DECORATIVE SURFACES SANDERS DUST EXTRACTION/WOOD WASTE WEBSITE DIRECTORY

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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NEWS

Schelling takes over IMA The technology leader for cut to size solutions Schelling acquires the specialist for automated edge processing technology IMA from Adcuram in Munich. Together both companies will lead the way in automation technology for the panel processing and furniture industries.

The Austrian company Schelling Anlagenbau GmbH and the German IMA Klessmann GmbH have been cooperating for over 25 years because the two companies complement each other perfectly. While Schelling is the worldwide leader in cut to size machines and plants for wood panels and other materials, IMA is a highly regarded specialist for edge processing technology and systems for the furniture and component manufacturing industries.

Schelling Headquarters in Schwarzach (Voralberg) Austria

Industry 4.0 Challenges in the Future Complete system solutions and the controlled automation of production processes are the key areas in the future of industrial manufacturing. Both companies have accumulated a wealth of know how in these fields. Therefore, it seemed obvious to take the long lasting successful collaboration of the two companies and turn it into an official partnership.

While both brands will be preserved, the companies will intensify their collaboration in all areas of business. Most importantly when it comes to developing and executing the newest most groundbreaking technologies which will underscore their position as global technology leaders.

The partnership will also yield positive synergy effects in sales, purchasing and manufacturing for both companies. The

global subsidiaries of both companies will work even closer together and the dealer networks of both companies which already overlap in 90% of the world markets will bring even more advantages to the customers and partners of the two companies.

Combined revenue of 230 million Euros For many years both companies have shared exhibition space at numerous trade shows worldwide. At the same time the companies have successfully managed and executed many large scale customer installations and projects. The newly elevated partnership will present more of these opportunities and help intensify the cooperation.

Joined in this new partnership Schelling and IMA wish for an even greater recognition in the global market place by better positioning both companies as major players with a total of over 1,400 employees and over 250 million Euros in revenue.

For further information: Tel: 01937 586340 Email: info@schelling.co.uk www.schelling.com

IMA Headquarters in L端bbecke (Westfalen) Germany

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NEWS 25-Year Milestone for Top NI Manufacturing Company BA Components Cookstown-based kitchen and bedroom manufacturer BA Components will celebrate 25 years in business with a glittering awards night this November, and the shortlist has now been unveiled!

The event will mark the quarter-century milestone while celebrating the company’s exponential growth in recent years resulting in an annual turnover of £30 million and an export portfolio spanning 23 countries worldwide.

With a theme of ‘Rewarding Creativity, Honouring Loyalty and Acknowledging Commitment’, entries for 8 categories have been flooding in since July, and this week the judging panel – a who’s who from the kitchen and bathroom industry alongside experts in digital media, design and business – got together to tackle the arduous job of determining the shortlist.

The winners will be announced at the black tie gala dinner, to be hosted by well known Northern Irish comedian William Caulfield, on Thursday 19th November, at the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown.

BA Components was established in 1990 by Cookstown twin brothers Brian and Kieran McCracken. Awarded extensively for their entrepreneurialism, within ten years BA Components had built its own fully contained factory at Derryloran Industrial Estate. Tackling the recession head-on, in 2009 the company bought over ailing BLP in Doncaster establishing BA Components’ second factory and boosting the company’s manufacturing capacity. Currently, the BA staff-count sits at 258 and continues to grow.

Grahame Morrison, Editor of www.kbnetwork.co.uk and chairman of the judging panel said “Today has been both challenging and incredibly exciting, as we debated and disputed over each category.

But we all agree that the awards night will be an unforgettable evening, spent with the people that have brought us to now.

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Twin brothers Kieran and Brian McCracken, Directors and Founders of Cookstown kitchen and bedroom manufacturer, BA Components, celebrating 25 years in business with a gala awards night this November.

Started in 1990, the company now has a turnover of £30 million, employs over 250 staff and exports bedroom and kitchen components to 23 countries across the world.

It’s going to be a 25-year whirlwind packed into one fantastic evening.”

Sales & Marketing Director for BA Components, David Caulfield, said, “This event is to honour Brian and Kieran McCracken, BA staff - past and present, the amazing BA dealer network and all who have contributed so much to our journey and shared in our success over the last twenty-five years. It promises to be a night of celebration, excitement, a few surprises and a whole lot of Irish craic, and is definitely one not to be missed.”

The awards and gala night will serve as a fitting tribute to BA’s extensively decorated journey to date while celebrating

all those who have supported the McCracken brothers along with the way – staff, customers and suppliers. It follows an exclusive red carpet tour of the Cookstown factory earlier that day.

For further information: www.bawards.co.uk.

Twitter @bacomponents or search using the hashtag #BAwards2015.

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AWARDS

FIRA Awards Furniture Industry Celebrates At Westminster ~ House Of Lords Reception – 11th September 2015 An event held by the Furniture Industry Research Association and FIRA International, the UK’s largest furniture association and leading furniture technology centre, at the House of Lords on Friday 11th September was a great success.

250 guests attended the prestigious annual event hosted by Lord Hoyle of Warrington which took place in the Cholmondley Room and on the terrace overlooking the Thames.

Phil Reynolds, FIRA’s General Manager, said: “We have had a busy year with 35 members joining the Association over the last 12 months. We have also had 24 companies achieve certification, or gain one of our awards, including our FIRA Innovation Award and FIRA Gold Installation Certification for home improvement, covering a new sector for FIRA.”

“Thanks again to Lord Hoyle for hosting and to everyone involved in the organisation of the event, it was a great success. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to catch up with long-standing and new members, and meet our award and certification holders. This year we also welcomed the winners of our student design competition, Future@Work a project sponsored by Morgan with the aim of encouraging new talent in the industry.”

Speeches were made by FIRA’s General Manager, Phil Reynolds, Furniture Industry Research Association Council Chairman, Michael Powell, and Lord Hoyle of Warrington.

A number of FIRA’s awards and certifications were presented on the night, including the Ergonomics Excellence Award, FIRA Gold Certification and the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP) Certification.

One of the many awards presented was the FIRA Innovation Award to Space Plug.

L-R Michael Powell - Chairman FIRA, Cliff Petit Space Plug, Lord Hoyle of Warrington, Paul Reynolds - General Manager FIRA

Designed by a former kitchen fitter who came up with an idea which aims to revolutionise the way kitchens are installed – Cliff Petit has received a prestigious award for his invention.

For further information: Tel: 01438 777730 Email: mdelabertauche@fira.co.uk / marketing@fira.co.uk

Burbidge’s Commitment To Craftsmanship Is Commended With Manufacturing Guild Mark Leading kitchen manufacturer, Burbidge has been awarded the prestigious Manufacturing Guild Mark (MGM) following over 40 years’ work designing and developing truly innovative and exceptionally crafted premium kitchens.

To mark the occasion, Burbidge’s managing director, Ben Burbidge, was recently presented with the much-coveted award by Paul von der Heyde, past master of The Furniture Makers’ Company.

Widely regarded as the most prestigious accolade in the furniture making industry, the MGM is available to only the top 50 furniture and furnishing manufacturers in the UK, demonstrating excellence in furniture manufacturing. As such, the judging process is a rigorous one; applicants are independently audited against a comprehensive criteria covering everything from the quality and efficiency of manufacturing methods and materials, product quality and marketing, through to environmental policy and fair working practices.

Founded in 1867 by the Great, Great Grandfather of the current managing director, Burbidge has a rich legacy in woodwork having started out specialising in wooden sports equipment before honing into the kitchen design sector 42 years ago.

With a continued commitment to manufacturing excellence.

Ben Burbidge, managing director of Burbidge comments: “We are tremendously proud to receive this highly-coveted accolade. As a business, we pride ourselves on always going the extra mile to ensure the highest possible level of manufacturing excellence. From scouring the globe to source the most luxurious timbers through to continuing to invest in the latest manufacturing technologies, we take great effort in ensuring we deliver the most beautiful and innovative premium kitchen designs on the market.

“It is therefore great to receive this award which is in recognition of this and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our wonderful staff for their hard work and

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Ben Burbidge (left) with the manufacturing Guild Mark from Paul von der Heyde past master of The Furniture Makers’ Company (right)

dedication – without which, none of this would have been possible.”

Burbidge is the longest established, leading UK kitchen frontals and accessories manufacturer. The company’s products and kitchen collection can be viewed in realistic room sets at its showroom in Coventry.

For further information: Tel: 024 7667 1600 www.burbidge.co.uk

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AWARDS AMS Hosts British Woodworking Federation Safety & Health Awareness Day On October 13th, Leicester based Advanced Machinery Services (AMS) hosted the British Woodworking Federation’s (BWF) Safety & Awareness Day at its new 10,000 sq. ft. purpose built showroom and training facility. Located at Skeffington Mill in the heart of the country, the facility has the capability of housing up to 18 new and refurbished machines, all powered up and fully operational with extraction, making it ideal for this BWF seminar organised in conjunction with Didac training and assessment solutions.

“When the BWF and Didac first approached us about hosting this important seminar we immediately jumped at the chance,” enthuses Steve McGloin, a

director at AMS. He continues, “The importance of a healthy work environment and safe working practices are critical in the woodworking industry. With powerful machinery it is vital that training and good working practices are put in place, and first class extraction systems are employed to preserve clean air quality for the workforce.

“From the first design stages, our new showroom and training facility has been constructed to take into account the health and safety of all who visit, train and work in it. As one of the leading servicing and training companies in the UK we applaud the BWF’s efforts to continuously improve the working conditions, along with the health and safety of woodworkers nationwide.”

Reducing risk and improving productivity The event included morning and afternoon sessions on controlling machinery safety risks, controlling health risks from wood dust, noise and material safety, and training and supervision for woodworking.

“Awareness of health and safety issues is not only vital for the protection of your workforce, it can also be critical for the health of your business,” explains Jon Gibson, a director at Didac. He continues, “In 2014/15 the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors made 955 proactive calls to woodworking factories. At 41% of these they recorded material breaches of regulations attracting a 'Fee for

AMS managing director, Steve Mc Gloin, demonstrates planer moulder

6 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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AWARDS Intervention’ (FFI) charge from the HSE. “In addition, 465 Improvement Notices and 54 Prohibition Notices were issued mainly in respect of LEV/Dust extraction problems. In the period between October 2012 and April 4014, the cost to the UK woodworking industry for such fines was £430,000.”

Regular training and servicing are a must Steve McGloin again, “It is always surprising to us the number of companies who invest considerable sums of money in advanced woodworking machinery who then forget about having it serviced on a regular basis.

“At AMS, we have a nationwide network of fully trained and accredited engineers

who carry out maintenance and emergency repair work for customers. Figures prove that the best way to minimise machine breakdowns is to take out regular maintenance contracts. These not only prolong the life of the equipment, but also help sustain the maximum lifetime value of such assets.

“Investment in your staff is also vitally important and we recommend all staff are trained or re-trained at the very minimum of every four years. Technology moves at such a pace that without regular training employees are not be able to extract the maximum output from machinery.

“The seminars at the event included best practices for moulders, covering correct setting procedures and effective methods of ensuring quality products. There were also

seminars on how to grind accurately.

“All in all, it was a very productive day and opened the eyes of those who attended.

As a business, we will continue to support the work of the BWF in striving to improve health and safety within our industry,” concludes McGloin.

If you’d like more information on health and safety issues, training courses or new and secondhand machinery, please contact jon.gibson@didac.co.uk (training – 0800 773 4230), matthew.mahony@bwf.org.uk (BWF – 0844 209 2610) or Steve McGloin at AMS (0844 844 9949) sales@advancedmachinery.co.uk

Woodworking Awards Shortlist is Announced Ingenious innovations and outstanding examples of personal and business excellence in the joinery industry are on show in the shortlist just announced for this year’s British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Woodworking Awards.

Finalists for the technical excellence and innovation award are Houghtons of York for its work on a private chapel's stunning baptistery reredos and gradine, as well as Icklesham Joinery for its impressive

refurbishment of the crypt at Christ Church, Spitalfields, and Leitz Tooling for game-changing manufacturing innovations in its ThermoTech window system.

This particular award was set up in memory of John Hedgecock, the former technical director at the BWF. It recognises innovative products or projects and rewards excellent in the joinery manufacturing and woodworking industry.

The awards for apprentice and trainee of the year – have also attracted very strong

Lee Heaney of West Port Windows & Doors

shortlists this year.

Rising stars include Lee Heaney of West Port Windows and Doors and Joe Handy of West Oak Joinery, both of whom are up for apprentice of the year. Shortlisted for trainee of the year are Dale Hodgins of Beard Evans Joinery, Mark Jones of Domoney Woodwork and Alice Kreuzberg who works for Tompkins.

For further information: www.bwf.org.uk Joe Handy of West Oak Joinery See our website and interactive magazine www.p-j-production.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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TRAINING

Wood Machine Training Operator wood machine training is essential. The law (under PUWER) requires that all workers must receive adequate training, including refresher training.

The Daltons Wadkin 'red team' of dedicated trainers deliver onsite courses for novice and experienced operators.

When should training be given?

Training for new starters as well as refresher training is required at least every three to five years, but sooner if a risk assessment identifies a particular training need.

Who should be trained? • Machine operators • Anyone who assists with the machining process (e.g. taking off, feeding) • Anyone who sets, cleans or maintains the machines

What about refresher training?

Refresher training is required on a regular basis. Operators that use their skills less regularly (e.g. people that fill in occasionally) will require refresher training more often - at least every three years.

Refresher training will also be required if the system of work changes, when new machines or machine controls are brought in, after an incident or near miss or after any change in legislation or new guidance.

What courses are available?

We divide our training courses into individual machine units covering over a dozen woodworking machine types, including abrasive wheels and hand tools.

For each customer the training course is tailored to the machines in operation and detailed training materials are supplied for each learner to keep.

Training is provided on the safe setting and operation in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, the Workplace Health Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992 and the

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.

Why choose Daltons Wadkin?

Daltons Wadkin have been providing industry led training for over 10 years, continually honing the courses to meet both customer and legal requirements.

Courses are normally carried out at customers premises using their own machinery but can also be provided at Daltons Wadkin Nottingham premises. The comprehensive training materials provided are for each.

Testimonials "An excellent session which was tailored to suit our needs and the experience of those attending". - Walter Thompson Ltd "The training received was to a very high standard with machines and regulations explained in detail". - Port of Blyth "All trainees were very pleased. An excellent course and will definitely use Daltons Wadkin again". - Pendle Vale College

For further information Tel: 0115 986 5201 Email: info@daltonswadkin.com www.daltonswadkin.com/certifiedoperator-training

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SOFTWARE

Daval Optimizes Manufacturing Operations with 2020 Solutions The world's leading provider of applications and enterprise solutions dedicated to interior design, space planning and furniture manufacturing, today announced that Daval, a British family business with a passion and heritage in the design and manufacture of fitted furniture, has invested in 2020 solutions to add flexibility and automation to their business processes, from design to sales order to engineering through production to delivery.

Based in, Huddersfield, West Yorshire, UK, Daval prides itself on providing individualised furnishings to meet the size, space and personality of the homeowner. In order to achieve this level of service, a very high-level of communication and configuration is required within their production facilities. The partnership with 2020 delivers end-to-end solutions which includes 2020 Fusion, the most popular computer-aided design (CAD) software in the European market for interior design, and 2020 Insight, a complete manufacturing operations management (MOM) solution for furniture, cabinet and wood product manufacturers. 2020 solutions will help Daval communicate with dealers, increase responsiveness and reduce lead times.

“With 2020 solutions, we can take our operations to a new level by connecting all the stages of creation from planning to engineering to production,” stated Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director, Daval.

“Working from a seamless platform will

“Simon Bodsworth (Daval) and Steve Edge (2020) are looking forward to their partnership”

enable us to increase flexibility and agility whilst eliminating unnecessary tasks and reducing the risk of error.”

As Daval is planning to invest in new production machinery, the timing is right to upgrade their technology to improve the quality and flexibility for their production.

With the implementation of 2020 Fusion and 2020 Insight, Daval is providing their dealers the possibility to enhance their ability to offer individualised designs and increase the speed with which quality furniture can be delivered without errors.

“At 2020, we are very familiar with the furniture manufacturing process and have

developed our solutions specifically for this market,” stated Joerg Brauns, General Manager - Manufacturing Line of Business at 2020. “Our solutions are designed to work with the company’s existing processes to provide the agility needed to succeed in a constantly changing marketplace. Daval has a strong process in place and I am confident 2020 can help them to achieve their goals.”

For further information: www.2020spaces.com/2020Insight

“The 2020 end-to-end solution””

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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INSTALLATION

Sigma3 Now Has The Edge With Triple FEN UK Installation Sigma3 has been manufacturing and retailing kitchens for over 40 years and is based in Llantrisant near Cardiff. Chairman and founder, Brian Lakin, has been continually expanding the manufacturing capability since the company began back in 1975.

Over recent years, the focus has been on expanding Sigma3’s Masterclass kitchen brand which it supplies to selected independent kitchen retailers on a national basis.

As part of this ongoing development, the company has invested over £1.3m in new machinery and equipment and a 10,000ft2 warehouse extension, to meet increased demands in volume and to dramatically improve the quality of its panels.

Managing director, Gerald Jones, explains: “The reason driving our investment in new edgebanding technology was the company’s desire to achieve an invisible edge and a more aesthetically pleasing product.

For 12 months we deliberated and researched seven different manufacturers –

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eventually shortlisting down to three.

“We ultimately decided in favour of Paul Ott GmbH to supply three Strongedge edgebanding systems, all equipped with state-of-the-art TransLift panel handling

solutions.

These machines produce a zero glue line finish, using over 100 different colours and textures.”

“In making a decision as to the specific machinery,” says Gerald, “consideration was given to the adhesive technologies available today, including laser, hot air reactivation, traditional EVA and PUR adhesives. The benefits and flexibility of the Paul Ott’s patented Combimelt glue application system became obvious. We were impressed by the build quality and the attention to detail at the Paul Ott factory, as well as the support offered throughout by their dealer, FEN UK”.

Historically the company had been using double-sided edgebanders with squaring and sizing capability. Of course, consideration had to be given, when eventually moving to single-sided edgebanding machinery.

However, after considerable testing of the Paul Ott machines, equipped with the TransStart panel infeed, the company’s initial concerns were completely alleviated.

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INSTALLATION All three Strongedge machines have the LCM cleaning systems fitted, ensuring all panels leave the machine fully-finished, without the need for any manual cleaning intervention after edgebanding.

The machines are able to produce panels with solid wood edges applied up to 20 mm in thickness and coil materials right down to 0.3mm. Feeding speed is 20m/min, including corner rounding passes. The machines are fully automatic in operation, each one is equipped with eight fully automated tape magazines.

The TransLift panel handling system fitted to each machine is a panel return solution that works 100% of the time for 100% of all panel sizes.

Gerald Jones goes on to say: “Our decision to move to single-sided edgebanding was driven by the company’s need to produce a greater variety of product in lower batch sizes. To combat the loss of output by replacing a double sided edgebander with a single-sided edgebander, we decided to add to the machines the TransLift panel return system. The result of the measures is that we have improved quality, panel aesthetics and have a much greater flexibility.

“We specified all of the new edgebanding machines with a very similar specification and capability.

Hence, Sigma3 now have one supplier and a service arrangement also with one supplier.

“As the company was changing all of its edgebanders, the speed and efficiency of the installation was critical. All three machines were installed by FEN UK over a six week period and at all times the company retained at least two fully operating machines. The installation went perfectly to plan for each of the three machines.”

Tel: 01332 516557 www.fenuk.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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CASE STUDY Cbros and The Felder Range Winning Results Time and Time Again Cbros Services, London based bespoke furniture manufacturers; specialize in producing top of the range furniture with a unique design twist. Founded by Brothers Michael and Daniel Cretu, the early stages of the company began in 2008. Starting off by buying equipment from the internet, Daniel said it was a hobby where they would ‘try out different things to see what worked’. A turning point for Cbros was their collaboration with Minale and Mann - specialists in interior design, bespoke construction and architecture. Daniel explained how ‘they work very well together’ and they have a very successful partnership, as ‘Minale and Mann wouldn’t be able to

work without Cbros Services and Cbros’ products come to life with Minale and Mann’.

Catering for famous and high end clients such as Avicii and ABBA, Michael and Daniel manufacture whiskey bars, DJ sets, furniture and much more, producing winning results time and time again. Cbros Services have recently equipped their workshop with a CNC Format 4 H50.

Machine operator Gabriel, stated that this has been an excellent investment with reliable Austrian engineering.

‘It is fast, exceptionally accurate and we are very happy with our new purchase. We are now able to manufacture 20 windows in 2 days’, says Gabriel. ‘Before we upgraded our workshop with the H50, we were not

sure if we would be able to meet certain projects in their entirety; but now we can do anything and everything.’

Business growth with Felder speaks for itself, as Cbros have completed projects such as loft conversions in only five weeks.

‘We are expanding in all areas of our business, including admin’, says Michael.

Daniel sums up his experience with Felder UK as ‘High quality, top spec, excellent finishing and precision.’

For further information: www.felder-group.co.uk

The Format 4 H50 CNC machining centre installed at Cbros Services

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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

CASE STUDY

Homag Venture 316 Delivers Huge Productivity Gains For Terry Smiths Based in Huthwaite, near junction 28 of the M1, Terry Smiths Limited has been manufacturing coffins and caskets for the funeral services market for over 30 years. The company, which employs 65 people in its 35,000 sq. ft.

Nottinghamshire facility, has a turnover of around £4m, producing some 45,000 coffins and caskets a year.

“As you might imagine, our business is very traditional,” explains Dave Clarke, coffin factory manager at Terry Smiths.

“Our customers demand quality products whether at the lower or upper ends of the price spectrum.

“Consequently, the manufacturing of our products relied on more traditional methods using cross-cut saws, spindle moulders and 1980s CNCs. This meant our processes were very labour intensive and costly.”

specification required for the business, there were really only two leading contenders which we chose to evaluate.

“We settled on the HOMAG Venture 316 for three very clear reasons: firstly, the quality of the machine and the results it produces are second to none; secondly, the reliability of the HOMAG equipment is well known throughout the industry and we had to have a machine that would not let us down; finally, we wanted to know that support and service was not only first class, but was also close at hand and so with HOMAG UK just down the road in Castle Donington, it was the perfect fit.”

Help from the experts “I have known the HOMAG area manager, Matt Long, for many years and have come to trust his judgements. Before we committed to the machine we sat down with Matt and explained exactly what we wanted from the CNC. “As usual, Matt went above and beyond; he not only listened, but also understood what we wanted to achieve. To prove the machine was fit for purpose, he arranged trials over in Germany and they sent back videos to us so we could see the machine performing the tasks we needed it to do.”

Investing in the future “In order to make the business more competitive and provide us with the opportunity to improve the scope and specification of our range, we decided to invest in a state-of-theart 5-axis CNC machine.

Given the machine

The Homag Venture 316 processing centre high-end features for a versatile performance

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CASE STUDY

Smooth installation and comprehensive training “The installation of the Venture 316 went very, very smoothly. The machine was ready three or four weeks ahead of schedule and we agreed to take delivery early. This enabled us to take our time and get everything set up properly before starting live production with the CNC. “Before the machine arrived we sent our operators and maintenance staff over to Germany for three days to learn about the machine. Experience has proved this to be extremely valuable and I’m a big fan of doing this. Not only does it establish good relationships between our staff and the HOMAG engineers, but also it builds ownership amongst our guys who then feel very much part of the investment process.

“We have never had such a technologically advanced piece of equipment and yet our operators have taken to it like a duck to water which is testament to the ease of operation of the machine and woodWOP, its control software.

“To give us more production creativity, we also bought a software package, ArtCAM. This enables us to engrave names, pictures such as roses or footballs and other details into the coffin or caskets, whether they be solid wood or veneered chipboard or MDF.”

The future’s bright “The benefits the HOMAG Venture 316 brings to our business are very clear cut. It

used to take four people three to four minutes to produce a coffin carcass; now one man can do it in three minutes with more consistent quality. In terms of savings to the business, we estimate that this alone saves us in the region of £85,000 a year, thus delivering a significant improvement to our bottom line.

“As a consequence, we reckon the return on investment for the Venture 316 will be 15 to 18 months which is incredible for an advanced piece of equipment such as this.”

Professional partnership “It’s not, however, just about the machine; it is the amicable, yet totally professional attitude of the team at HOMAG, both in the UK and Germany. We have a really good relationship with them and that pays dividends for all concerned.

The support and service we get from HOMAG UK is responsive and accountable; they have a comprehensive parts service and their response times are excellent.

“The Venture 316 ticks all the boxes for us and the HOMAG team dot all the ‘i’s and cross all the ‘t’s which makes for a great partnership,” concludes Dave Clarke.

spindles enabling fewer drilling cycles. For consistent drilling depth, even on hard materials, the 316 has a spindle locking mechanism. This patented system provides consistent and repeatable precision drilling depth.

To improve set up time, you can choose the optional LED displays which make the positioning of vacuum cups and consoles fast and simple. This option can save up to 70 percent of preparation time as it allows correct cup placing at a glance.

In addition a 14 or 18 place tool changer increases the number of tools and units which can be directly accessed, thus reducing set-up times further. A grooving saw with a blade diameter of up to 350mm can also be accommodated.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of the Venture 316 or any HOMAG CNC machines, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.

All inclusive high-end features deliver versatile performance With a range of packages and options to choose from, the 5-axis Venture 316 offers flexibility and performance. There’s a choice of high-speed drilling heads with up to 17 vertical spindles and four horizontal

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

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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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INSTALLATION

Kevin Wright Meets Kevin Wright – Again!

Kevin Wright From C & M Joinery Installs Second Leadermac From Kevin Wright Of Leadermac UK Ltd C & M Joinery based in Tamworth, Staffordshire a bespoke stair making manufacturer has installed a second Leadermac Compact machine.

The family business run by Mr Kevin Wright was started by his father 40 years ago. As well as stair making C & M Joinery produce associated stair making components, specialised CNC wood turnings and specialised mouldings which are produced on the Leadermac machines.

Mr Kevin Wright said that he was very pleased with the first Leadermac machine hence why he has installed a second machine.

The first Leadermac machine was a 310 mm wide 5 head Compact machine for producing stair strings which was installed in January 2003. Due to expansion a second Leadermac 5 head Compact machine was installed in November 2014.

The Compact model is Leadermacs’ best selling machine in the UK and also worldwide. Standard features include a 230 mm wide x 150 mm high working capacity with standard feed speeds of up to 24 metres per minute with an electronic inverter to control the feed speeds and an LED feed speed display, a solid cast iron base , full width driven bed rollers, hard chromed tables and bed plates throughout, a double roller driven short stock feeder with pneumatic loading between the vertical

spindles, Siemens and Telemecanique motors and electrical switch gear, Star Delta starting to all spindle motors. The Compact machine is the heaviest in its class.

Service and back up support is directly from our UK office, with a large stock of moulder spares on the shelf ready for next day delivery.

For further information: Tel: 1942 859933

Kevin Wright seals the deal with Kevin Wright

16 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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EFFICIENCY SQUARED. THE NEW VOLLMER VGRIND 160

The one-of-a-kind, multi-level machining of the Vgrind 160 uses two vertically arranged grinding spindles to provide the highest standard of efďŹ ciency for the production of solid carbide tools. Further highlights include its sophisticated wall design for optimum accessibility and clear viewing, exible 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

EDGEBANDERS BRANDT Ambition 1230 Airtec Edgebander – Premium Quality at Entry Level If you are looking to consistently produce premium quality panel based products, whether for furniture, kitchens, bedrooms, shop fitting or other items, you need an edgebander that you can rely on to perform at the same high level, day in, day out.

Historically, smaller woodworking shops have found it difficult to justify the investment required to acquire such machinery. Now, BRANDT has changed this with the introduction of the Ambition 1230 airTec. The Ambition 1230 airTec is a cost effective entry level edgebander which, because it features airTec zero-joint technology, delivers first class results every time. The airTec system joins the edge and the panel without adhesive but using hot air to give an incredibly tight ‘invisible’ joint.

The machine can also be used with conventional EVA adhesive and even PUR. This compact machine is fully equipped with pre-milling, a heavy duty pressure zone for coil and strip materials, front and rear end trim saws, top and bottom trimming and profiling units and a corner rounding unit to provide complete panel processing. With the Ambition 1230 airTec,

the need for hand finishing is eliminated because it has a profile scraper, a glue joint scraper and a buffing unit.

easyTouch control The appeal of BRANDT's new easyTouch control system lies in its intuitive operation and user oriented menu structure. It features a clearly arranged 7" graphic display with simple touch screen operation.

These days, the ever increasing diversity of edge materials requires a highly flexible machine with rapid edge-changing capabilities. The easyTouch control system makes it possible to adapt the range of operations to meet customers' specific requirements and save the programs for instant call up.

The new easyTouch controller has supporting functions that are simple and easy to access. The logging of production data, the selection of programmes or the glue temperature can be quickly checked on the 7" display.

High performance with cost efficiency The main economic benefits of the BRANDT Ambition 1230 airTec are time

saving and an excellent price/efficiency ratio. It offers complete panel processing with its pneumatic adjustments of the pressure zone, end trimming unit, trimming unit and scraping unit all contributing to this performance.

The Ambition 1230 airTec can handle edge tape thickness from 0.4mm to 3mm and solid wood up to 6mm; it also has a panel thickness capability of 8 – 60mm. Overall, the 1230 airTec is a real work horse which will deliver first class results day after day.

All this, coupled with HOMAG’s flexible finance packages, brings high end technology and invisible joints within reach of the smaller manufacturer.

For further information or a demonstration of the BRANDT Ambition 1230 airTec please contact Adele Hunt: Tel: 01332 856424.

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

The BRANDT Ambition 1230 airtec edgebander – high performance with cost efficiency

18 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Renolit Armouren - New High Impact Resistant Film Launched RENOLIT are pleased to announce RENOLIT ARMOUREN, an innovative and durable multi-layer PVC film developed to offer protection against low level impact.

The new product is launched as a 12 item stock range that includes 8 realistic woodgrain prints and 4 contemporary solid colours. It is targeted to meet the requirement for a decorative surface film suited to furniture and interior applications in areas of high traffic. Typical areas of use include for example shop fitting, hotel & hospitality, healthcare, or public buildings.

Benefits of RENOLIT ARMOUREN include small minimum order quantities and short lead times which are essential for markets that rely on fast turnaround times for contracts.

Product Characteristics RENOLIT ARMOUREN is a 0.7mm thick material ideal for either flat lamination or thermoforming. It can be processed on a wide range of substrate materials such as MDF and chip board.

The product can be manufactured using typical conditions on all standard industry equipment. This means that anyone with experience working with products from the company’s 2D offer or 3D global stock ranges RENOLIT COVAREN or RENOLIT ALKOREN of can confidently use RENOLIT ARMOUREN. Product Group Manager, Grant Swan based at RENOLIT’s UK manufacturing facility in the North East of England stated. ”We have been asked by a number of companies for a durable impact film that is easy to process, fit for purpose, and readily available in a wide range of designs”.

RENOLIT ARMOUREN has under gone independent impact performance testing to BSI and NEMA accreditation standards.

In the UK the product was tested according to BS3962-6: Ball impact resistance and in USA according to NEMA LD3 –2005, Ball impact & Dart impact resistance.

Product Range RENOLIT ARMOUREN is launched as a stock range of 12 items supplied in 100 linear metre rolls. It contains a variety of 8 popular woodgrain designs, including ash, walnut, oak and maple, plus 4 modern textured solid colours. RENOLIT ARMOUREN products are completed with either a classic Finegrain emboss or matt Suedette texture to create beautiful surface finishes.

An additional selection of the current woodgrain or solid colour 3D stock range items are also available on a make-to-order basis.

RENOLIT ARMOREN offers a high level of flexibility to designers and contractors as all designs and solid colours are also available in RENOLIT’s standard 3D and 2D ranges. This allows different products to be matched, according to the application, within the same environment. Co-ordinating melamine faced chipboards are also available from leading industry manufacturers.

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

For further information, a RENOLIT ARMOUREN pressed sample and a product range binder: Tel: 01670 718222 Email: renolit.cramlington@renolit.com www.renolit.com/design

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

Dazzling Decors from Lathams In a move which significantly strengthens its credentials as one of the UK’s leading laminate and melamine suppliers, James Latham is now offering a portfolio of more than 500 laminates as well as a massive range of melamines, many of them exclusive.

The extensive range of Kronospan, Egger, XyloCleaf, Woodlam and Galtee decors are all available directly from stock via Latham’s nationwide network of depots. Plus there are matching ABS edgings available for all decors as well as door and large size sheets.

In addition, a brand new range of Kronospan Compact Grade Laminate is also available as part of Latham’s Washroom Solutions Collection with matching MRMFC (Moisture Resistant).

The increase in stock has seen James Latham invest in additional state-of-the-art racking at depots across the group to ensure that decors can be easily identified and picked quickly, efficiently and with the minimum risk of damage.

Paul Morson, James Latham’s Group Product Champion for Melamine commented, “We’ve invested heavily to ensure that James Latham is one of the leading laminate and melamine suppliers in the UK, so regardless of what our customer’s project requirements are, we’ll have the solution, and it’s all under one roof.

“Many of our exciting new ranges, including Kronospan Super Matt and XyloCleaf which both come from Italy, are exclusive to Lathams and of course we are always searching for new decorative surfaces to strengthen our offering even further.”

The enhanced range now includes: XyloCleaf, a collection of over more than 50 highly textured premium decors including wood grains and linens which comes complete with matching ABS edgings as standard. Plus it is also available as HPL in 16 decors.

Super Matt, a new and exclusive range of highly durable, finger

Super Matt is finger print resistant and available in eight on-trend colours EGGER laminate is suitable for a broad range of applications

20 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Many of the highly durable high gloss acrylic colours are exclusive

Krono Colour has been developed from global trend influences

print resistant, MFC decors from Kronospan Italy. Offering eight, on-trend colours, it reduces the need to be constantly wiping away unsightly finger marks and smears.

James Latham now offers a staggering 237 Egger decors in its range. Egger’s ZOOM collection ranges from intense uni-colours and exotic woodgrains to glass effect and authentic rough-cut wood and there is matching MFC and edging available for 112 decors.

Part of the innovative Kronodesign portfolio, Krono Colour has been developed from global trend influences. From muted tones, exuberant primaries and every shade in between, it comprises 59 MFC decors.

James Latham’s washroom solutions package boasts an extensive range of Kronospan decors and includes moisture resistant melamine faced chipboard (MRMFC) as well as a range of matching compact grade laminate (CGL) Offering a collection of 120 matching laminate sheets, Krono Laminate offers a hardwearing, postformable decorative surface.

Available in matching designs to selected Kronospan Melamine Faced Particle Board and MDF, it’s ideal for numerous applications.

James Latham offers an exciting range of highly durable, highgloss acrylic colours, many of them exclusive. Easy clean, UV tested and with matching edgings available, it’s a cost effective option versus spraying, perfect for the KBB and furniture sectors as well as POS, hospitality and shopfitting.

XyloCleaf offers a variety of wood grains, linens and other unique materials

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

For further information: Tel: 0116 257 3415 Email: marketing@lathams.co.uk www.lathamtimber.co.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

Coordination is Key to New Worktop Range EGGER UK has completely revamped its worktop range to incorporate brand new decors, textures and a number of industry firsts – worktops with matching MFC, laminate and edging, enabling the customer to create coordinated doors, end panels, carcasses, shelving and even plinths with the worktop.

Out goes its existing worktop range of 20 decors, and in comes a standard 38 mm postformed ‘Contemporary’ collection of 26 decors as well as a ‘Premium’ collection of 25mm and 38mm square-edge worktops in 12 decors.

“This is the most significant revamp we have ever made to our worktop range and we believe it will have a huge impact on the sector,” said EGGER UK’s head of décor development Elliott Fairlie.

“The role of the kitchen is changing, with an increasing demand for open plan spaces that are coordinated to create the right look and feel for multifunctional living. Creating that coordinated look requires materials that either match or complement the worktop.

“And because EGGER supplies the materials that are made into

doors, carcasses, shelving, end panels and plinths, the resources exist to bring the coordinated look together.

“Increasingly, the choice of worktop is the starting point of a kitchen scheme. With the popularity of open plan living and island units, the once humble worktop is now centre stage. How it then combines with the other furniture such as doors, end panels, shelving and flooring is crucial.

“Rather than just tinkering with the colour palette we offer the marketplace, we have developed a concept that helps designers and consumers create truly coordinated interiors.

“As well as attractive new decors and textures, we have thought long and hard about how our products are used.

The decision to retain a tight postformed edge in the ‘Contemporary’ range rather than move completely over to the even more fashionable square-edge profile reflects customer feedback that there remains a strong demand for this type of worktop.

But using a high-density protective layer along the front of the core board creates an edge that is less susceptible to damage from

Sand Gladstone Oak

22 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Achetipo Terra

impact, a vulnerable spot on some postformed worktops, whilst the tight 3mm radius on the postformed edge gives a contemporary look.

In the Contemporary range, there is an increased emphasis on woodgrains. This is in reaction to the amount of solid colour being used as frontals, with woodgrains now becoming the accent.

For customers looking for something even more on trend, the new square-edge Premium range has a sharper, fashionable look and is available in 12 decors. The woodgrain and gloss decors are all 38mm, whilst the 6 stone and ceramic decors are all available in a sleek 25mm thickness.

First supplier to offer synchronised pore worktops EGGER is also the first supplier to offer synchronised pore worktops where the texture aligns perfectly with the wood grain in the décor – giving the natural look and feel of solid wood with all the durability, care and maintenance benefits of laminate.

As well as offering the sleeker, thinner worktop look that is growing more popular, it gives the opportunity to better-replicate the unique visual appearance of granite and stone. Premium tops are available in 4100mm x 650mm single edged or 4100mm x 920mm double edged, using 1.5mm ABS edging instead of 2mm to create an even more realistic look.

“Recent years have seen a blurring of the distinction between the kitchen and other living areas within the home,” added Elliott Fairlie. “The kitchen has become a place for socialising, entertaining and relaxing.

“We have seen housebuilders saving space by having open plan arrangements in smaller properties, whilst homeowners have been willing to remove the walls that separated the dining room from the kitchen in older properties.

“But the desire for open plan and flexible living arrangements,

with matching furniture running throughout the home, presents a number of new challenges that need to be tackled by furniture manufacturers and retailers seeking greater coordination in design and materials.

“With the new ranges, customers can choose from a whole host of finishes to create coordinated living spaces due to many worktop designs having matching materials available.

“Laminates continue to dominate the worktop market with an 85% share by volume, and we have put a lot of effort into ensuring our new products are able to replicate other finishes such as natural stone, granite, solid surface and marble as well as woodgrains – that are now indistinguishable from the real thing.”

Unlike solid wood worktops, EGGER worktops do not require ongoing and regular maintenance such as oiling or sanding. They are also significantly less likely to fade in sunlight, more durable and hygienic.

Matching upstands and splashbacks are available for every decor, as well as 6 new contrasting effects such as quartz glass and stainless steel EGGER’s new worktop range is available from October with the full range being held in stock nationally by its network of distributors. A number of sales tools and point of sale material is also available to retailers – including an in-store worktop portfolio with large sample decors, and an online visualiser tool utilising room-sets to match worktops, splashbacks and upstands with doors, shelving and drawer fronts.

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

For further information: Tel : 01434 613359 Email: elliott.fairlie@egger.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

New Designs from Decorative Panels We all know that trends and fashions are ever changing.

After visiting various design shows around the world and speaking with experts in the industry, the design team at Decorative Panels believe that contemporary design, and particularly the use of acrylic matt materials, is an area of particular focus.

Working together with an established dp-lamination partner, Senoplast, dp-lamination have extended their dp-specialist range by adding four new acrylic matt designs – frost white, cream, cashmere and dark grey. All four designs will be available ex-stock from December. These new Matt colours can be used in any contemporary environment either individually or in conjunction with their Senoplast Gloss designs as complimentary product.

One of the great advantages of these designs, over other Matt product on the market, is just how scratch and fingerprint resistant they are. Of course they also have tried and tested UV protection offering exceptional colour stability.

The dp-décor range has also welcomed new introductions. Three new designs that fall under the Reality Collection of high definition 3D tactile surface - Bob’s Pine, Redgate, and Ivory. The Reality Collection continues to grow with more and more additions to what are the most realistic woodgrains available in the market.

Three new designs have been added to the dp-décor Core Collection all of which bring fresh colour and grain tones to this extensive collection – they are Ville Oak, Machiavelli Oak, and Rumford Walnut.

Finally dp-lamination have made a further addition to their Colours Collection with the introduction of a very popular on trend Putty design.

The range of surface finishes available from the Decorative Panels Group is vast. The group offers one of the largest and most diverse stock ranges available in the UK, with surface finishes that range from woodgrain paper foils through to high gloss acrylic materials. With design exclusivity available, it can be seen that Decorative Panels Lamination can satisfy every design demand.

The dp-decor range of paper foil surfaces comprises over 100

24 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

designs of woodgrain and solid colour options with many available in ultra-high resistance surface finish and some as recoatables.

The range of surface finishes available is vast

Foil lamination line

For further information and to receive samples of any of the above designs: Tel: 01484 658341 Email: info@decorativepanels.co.uk

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

DECORATIVE SURFACES

PJP Visits Unilin Panel & Joinery was invited to the Headquarters of Unilin in Oestrozebeke, Belgium.

Unilin started in 1960 as the Unilin Group and was producing chipboard, melamine panels, flooring and roofing products. In 1988 they launched Quick-Step, the revolutionary laminate floor with Uniclip technology.

They merged with Mohawk Industries Inc in 2005 and as a result Unilin Panels and SpanoGroup emerged in 2013.

Unilin have a well developed network of sales and production sites in Belgium and Frances responsible for worldwide coverage.

The sites produce and finish melamine and chipboard products, green energy and glues. They fully support sustainable and respectful forest management which conform with PEFC and FSC certification. Production capacity averages 1500 m3 of timber delivery which means 40 lorry loads a day, every day. They also utilize recycled wood in the production of chipboard and other products and have invested heavily in the cleaning and production processes, transforming unusable recycled wood and waste wood into green energy.

Unilin produce many products for the construction, building, flooring, packaging, interior, and furniture and joinery industries.

They produce furniture and interior solutions which include finished and semi-finished panels to make into doors, decorative walls, cupboards, tables, work surfaces and so on. Their latest product for both the interior and furniture industries is the Evola Collection which has recently won the German Annual Iconic

Award which for 60 years has been the leading accolade in areas such as architecture, interior and product design.

So Lifelike, So Full Of Character – By Unilin The Evola Collection designs meticulously imitate every single feature of the original materials.

Unilin not only expanded its existing range of wood designs, but also extended it with eight different solid colours in addition to a line of highly realistic looking metallic and concrete designs.

Evola designs are always as close as possible to the original material, whilst also offering the many advantages of HPL and melamine-faced boards. This means that Evola decorative panels not only look beautiful and lifelike, but they also feel particularly authentic. They are extremely durable, scratch-resistant, colourfast and easy to care for and maintain.

The greatest advantage offered by the revamped collection is without doubt that Unilin now offers sychrone surface textures – which until now could only be produced on melamine-faced board – on HPL. Each design also has matching edgebanding. The result is a sustainable, ecologically friendly, low maintenance and affordable product that can be installed quickly and easily for use in a wide range of interior and furniture applications.

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

For further information: www.unilinpanels.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DECORATIVE SURFACES

B9 Painted Oak Wood David Clouting, the UK’s leading vinyl distribution company, is launching a new range of vinyl colours. The range consists of an extensive collection of colours in the latest combination of B9 texture and printed Decofoil.

B9 is a highly effective texture, which replicates the look of a solid oak wood panel. LG Hausys, as a leading exponent in developing new products and manufacturing techniques, has successfully developed the B9 emboss to work in tandem with a subtle print. The overall effect creates a natural looking painted wood product that is suitable for vinyl wrapped doors, five piece doors and laminated flat panels for cut and edge.

Alongside the traditional KBB sectors using B9 Painted Oak, the shop fitting and interior design sectors will benefit from the durable, functional and flexible capability of the B9 Decofoil.

David Clouting are stocking seven B9 colours: Porcelain White, Ivory, Mussel, Cashmere, Stone Grey, Light Grey and Graphite Grey. All colours tie into existing Decofoil Gloss foils and complimentary MFC materials.

Grey is a tone that is growing rapidly in popularity in the UK

Kadr4-B9 Graphite

26 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

furniture sector and whilst light grey and graphite grey are relatively new decors, they are quickly establishing themselves as mainstream growth trend colours. Grey can conjure up a cold feeling, but the look is far from this. Light Grey is fresh and clean and Graphite Grey is quickly taking over as a warmer alternative to black, and a colour that can be mixed in successfully with lighter tones. The combination of these colour tones with the B9 texture is a winning combination that will ensure enduring successful product ranges in the coming years.

Please contact David Clouting for samples and further details on the stock range of Decofoil.

Graphite & Dadr4-C9 Light Grey

For further information: Tel: 01376 518037 www.davidclouting.co.uk

NCAB4-B9 Cashmere

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

the decorative panels group

a perfect finish

YOUR PERFECT PARTNER

Fascias dp-reality The latest collection of 3D designs that offer the customer the most realistic alternative to real wood veneer available on the market

Carcase dp-BioCote® Quartz Impregnated foil that provides exceptional abrasion and antibacterial properties.

A market leader for any hygiene-critical environment

Work surface Senoplast TopX Gloss Scratch resistant with an ultra high gloss finish

End panels dp-lite A hollow core board providing a “chunky” look whilst ensuring it is light enough to handle

Plinths dp-mirror board A cost-effective and safe alternative to glass mirrors

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 decorativepanels.co.uk

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INSTALLATION

NIMAC Beam Saws - A Greek Success Story As sales of NIMAC beam saws worldwide go from strength to strength we take a closer look at the range and examine what is driving the growth.

Alex Dalton of Daltons Wadkin comments, 'Our machine portfolio consists predominantly of independent specialist companies focusing on one key product type, in this case beam saws. This focus results in an exceptionally high level of expertise only achievable when a company lives and breathes one machine type'.

A family run company headed by brothers Panos and Odisseas, NIMAC Group first started manufacturing beam saws in 1977. Since then the company has grown significantly and now exports over 90% of its production around the world.

28 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Alex continues, 'NIMAC reflect our own core company values and principles, there is immense pride in each and every

machine that leaves the factory. As a result of our partnership we provide customers with an unparallel level of service and

There are two principle models of the NIMAC range of beam saws - Hermes & Atlas

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

INSTALLATION

A view of the NIMAC assembly lines

attention that is just not available from the larger manufactures'.

There are two principle models of beam saw in the NIMAC range; Hermes and Atlas.

Hermes - named after the Greek god of entrepreneurship and commerce this newest addition to the NIMAC range of beam saws has been developed for the small to medium panel processor with a compact footprint, Easy-fix quick change blade system, air flotation tables, and cutting capacities of 2900mm or 3800mm with an accuracy of 0.1mm. Sales Director, Andy Walsh, is a big fan of the Hermes, 'The Hermes is very popular with customers using sliding table saws or vertical panel saws looking to increase their panel production. The iLenia software gives small businesses all the advantages of full panel optimisation without having to invest in larger models'.

Atlas - taking its name from the Greek god of strength and stamina, this flag ship model embodies four decades of beam saw expertise and is designed for high volume

panel processing. In addition to the features found on the Hermes, the Atlas beam saw is also equipped with grooving facility, window cut out, automatic blade height projection, and cutting capacity options of 3200mm, 3800mm and 4300mm. Additional options include rear loading, cutting speeds up to 120m/min, post forming system, label printers and bar code software to further increase the Atlas's capabilities.

Software and control - At the heart of each model is the powerful iLenia optimising software. Standard on all machines, the intuitive PC based interface allows the operator (or office) to program and optimise up to 5 different panels and 100 separate parts. The 21" LCD screen shows real time graphic representation of each panel making it simple for the operator to program one off cuts, call up cutting lists and quickly access cutting statistics and job progress.

Performance and build - NIMAC have developed a high precision, maintenance

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

free sliding system for the saw carriage with a 10 year guarantee. Each model is built with strength and durability in mind and an overall 2 year machine warranty reflects this.

Daltons Wadkin centrally based showrooms in Nottingham offer customers working demonstrations on the Hermes model and the chance to discuss their requirements with technically trained staff.

Andy Walsh is always keen to accompany customers on a visit to the NIMAC factory, and not just for the agreeable climate. 'We encourage our customers to visit NIMAC for a factory tour and the opportunity to really get beneath the skin of the product, there is nothing to hide and everything to show off'!

For further information: Tel: 0115 986 5201 Email: info@daltonswadkin.com www.daltonswadkin.com/beam-saws

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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SANDERS-INSTALLATION

Stepnell Smoothes Out Sanding with a Viet Stepnell is a £66 million turnover building and civil engineering business headquartered in Rugby which undertakes construction projects from £10,000 to £30 million in value. Established in the 1870s, the company is still a family-owned business which operates through a network of regional offices across central and southern England.

The company works across the private and public sector where it has developed a strong design and build culture. Project activities range from the delivery of schools, colleges and nurseries to commercial, industrial and solar park developments.

Within the healthcare sector Stepnell projects include hospitals, medical centres, care homes and doctors’ surgeries.

One of Stepnell’s key strengths is its ability to provide a complete construction and engineering service from within the company. This includes having its own dedicated joinery which is staffed by a team of eight highly experienced joiners and wood machinists and is equipped with a wide range of classical machinery.

The newest piece of equipment to arrive is a Viet twin-belt sander which has brought improved accuracy, a better finish and increased versatility to sanding operations.

Joinery manager Lee Grant, who has been with Stepnell since leaving school

more than 30 years ago, said: “The Viet replaced an elderly sander with a single 900mm wide belt that needed too much spending on it to bring it up to scratch. The engineer from T.M. Machinery, who service all of our machinery, mentioned that they supplied Viet sanders so I decided to take a look at them. I also checked out another make before concluding that the Viet was the far better choice.

“The new sander had to fit into a restricted footprint, which the Viet did easily due to its construction, and it was available at a better price which was an added bonus.”

The S211 model he bought is the smallest in the Viet artisan range, offering top sanding quality at an affordable price. It has a powerful 15 KW main motor and comes with a range of options to make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Precise and functional, it can be equipped with a range of rollers and pads for calibrating and fine sanding timber, preparing the material for further processes.

All of the joinery’s considerable output is bespoke work and can range from door linings and door components to window frames, stair cases, or any other items specified by the Stepnell Group. For example, a recent contract for a care home calls for the production 66 hardwood box sash windows and nearly 400 door linings,

Joinery manager Lee Grant (right) with the new Viet sander.

all of which will go through the sander, which has twin 1100mm wide belts.

The materials used include both softwoods and hardwoods as well the occasional piece of MDF. Door Linings and loose components are sanded after being planed down, while assembled components such as doors and window casements are given their final sanding.

“It’s a versatile machine which is delivering greater accuracy and giving a much better finish than we got before,” said Mr Grant. “Because the sander has wider belts we can now put through standard 926mm wide doors, which are required for use in commercial areas. We could not do this with the old sander so the joiners had to use a belt sander on the bench, which was quite time-consuming.”

He added that the twin belts lasted much longer than the single belt on the previous machine, giving a saving in replacement costs. “Another advantage is the way the compressed air functions. With the old sander it was constantly running so as to keep the belt in line, but the Viet is engineered so that this is not necessary, making it more efficient as well as being quieter.

Joiner and wood machinist Tim Davenport is delighted with latest piece of kit. “It’s much easier to set up than the old sander, is a lot more accurate and nowhere near as noisy.

All in all it’s a pleasure to use.”

For further information: Tel: 0116 271 7155 Email: sales@tmservices.co.uk www.tmmachinery.co.uk The Viet S211 twin belt sander bought for the joinery at Rugby-based Stepnell.

30 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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

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

SANDERS-INSTALLATION Increased Production from Kündig Friendship Mill Beds of Read near Burnley, Lancashire manufactures predominantly pine bed frames, which are sold throughout the UK to smaller, independent retailers. The beds come in sizes from 2 ft 6 in up to 6 ft in width. Established in 1992, the team of a dozen has a reputation for high quality product. The company's reach can be quickly established by searching “Friendship Mill Beds” on Google: the first page (which is, after all, as far as most people get) consists almost entirely of links to companies offering Friendship Mill's beds for sale (the only irrelevant material being some of the paid-for ads).

Recently, the company invested in a Kündig Technic Botop 650 RRR-RRR sander.

Director, Edward Ireland, explained that the sander had been purchased to increase production, save time and improve quality.

The new sander has six belts, three top and three bottom: the previous three-belt sander was only a top sander, so to sand four faces each component had to pass through the sander four times: a very time consuming process. Because the new machine can sand top and bottom, it only needs to pass through twice … saving not just sanding time, but the time involved in re-stacking the components and moving them from the back to the front of the machine as well: a significant saving in time!

The Kündig Technic range represents “quality machines for special purposes”,

according to the company's website. In short, they are bespoke machines designed to meet customers' specific requirements.

Examples are top and bottom sanding machines with two to six units, as at Friendship Mill Beds; the ability to work with special materials; the ability to use CNC control to work with special shapes, such as skis and snowboards; the option of extra large machines (up to 2,200mm working width); sanders designed to work with plywood; sanders with cutterheads; and, for those who work with laminates, the ability to sand very thin layers of material.

In other words, if there is not already a machine in Kündig's extensive range that can meet your specific requirements, it can be created for you by the specialists who work on the Technic range.

In the case of Friendship Mill Beds, there was also a need to sand particularly small components, only 250 mm in length: these are spindles for beds in the Shaker style.

The longest components are 2.2 m long.

The Kündig Technic Botop sander was designed to meet this need.

Obviously, there is a choice of wide-belt sanders on the market. When asked “Why Kündig?” Edward replied: “We just felt they offered a very good product: not necessarily the cheapest but well engineered and with a UK agent reasonably local to us. It offered the best all round for us as a company to buy a sander from Kündig”.

Edward had also travelled with Carl O'Meara of Kündig UK Ltd to Plasse

Escalier, a stair making company in Lyon, France, to see a Kündig Technic sander in action and to meet Stephan Kündig of the Swiss parent company.

Edward is very pleased with the sander: “It is very simple to operate: the software on the sander is very easy for anybody to use with a minimum of training,” he said, also praising the layout of the control interface.

He feels that it has lived up to its billing by increasing production, reduced the time taken and has “also improved the quality of the sanding we are doing”. When asked if he would recommend it, he replied, “Yes, we would”.

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

32 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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PROFILE T.M. Machinery Unveils New-Look Website T.M. Machinery, distributors of Striebig vertical panel saws, Viet artisan wide-belt sanders and Al-Ko dust extraction systems, has launched its new-look website.

The new streamlined site, which makes it easier and quicker for visitors to find what they want, features clear and concise technical information.

There are details provided of every model in all three product ranges sold by the company. The section on Striebig shows not only photographs of the best-selling vertical panel saws but extensive videos of some of the models in action.

T.M. is renowned for its servicing and maintenance facilities, and the page giving full details is handily linked to a series of endorsements from satisfied customers around the country. There’s also a section showing refurbished Striebig and Viet machines for sale which will be regularly updated.

Said T.M. Machinery’s sales director Matt Pearce: “Since we launched our old site, our

product range has grown significantly, as has our customer base and the site’s layout and category structure didn’t make it very easy to navigate.

“We have spent a lot of time reorganising the large number of illustrated customer application stories we have on the site into 12 distinct categories. These range from the educational world to timber merchants and also include furniture makers and shop fitters, which will make it far simpler for visitors find their specific industry sector.”

The site, www.tmmachinery.co.uk also features a handy call-back facility to enable visitors to request a telephone call-back if T.M’s ‘phone lines are busy when they call.

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

One of the easy-to-read pages from T.M. Machinery’s new website.

CNC ROUTING FOR WOODWORKING AND PANEL PROCESSING PANEL A P PROCESSING

01952 291600 www www.axyz.com .axyz.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

33

MACHINING CENTRES Deal Of The Year - WEEKE Venture 211 Edition CNC Processing Centre Every once in a while, one of the brands within the HOMAG Group draws up a generous specification for a machine which is put on sale at a very special price. Offering real value for money, it is only available, however, for a limited time period. Recently WEEKE, the Group’s specialist processing, drilling, routing and grooving CNC manufacturer, announced the latest in a line of ‘Edition’ promotional models, the WEEKE Venture 211 edition.

Simon Brooks, sales and marketing director of HOMAG UK comments, “The ‘edition’ models offer customers a fantastic package, but they are only available for a relatively short period. I would urge companies interested in this great value CNC processing centre package to contact us sooner rather than later if they want to take advantage of this excellent deal.”

Perfect for kitchen, bedroom and office furniture production Simon continues, “The Venture 211 edition is an extremely

also has 18 drilling spindles, twelve vertical and six horizontal, a 125mm grooving saw and a 14-fold tool changer for quick, versatile production.

“The high speed drilling spindles feature the patented quick change system to minimise downtime and also boast the patented automatic spindle clamping system which guarantees exact drilling depth at any time with different materials.

Weighing in at just under five tonnes, the Venture 211 Edition is an absolute workhorse.”

Total control at the touch of the screen “Following the successful path pioneered by the HOMAG Group, the Venture 211 edition features a 21” full-HD multi-touch wide screen display panel. Known as powerTouch, it is the next generation control system with a completely new user interface.

“The large, widescreen multitouch monitor is at the heart of this technology and the machine functions are easily controlled by directly touching it.

The cuttingedge interface offers an array of new help and

operating of different machines, but also makes for greater efficiencies by significantly reducing the time required for servicing and training.”

Driven by the market-leading woodWOP software With over 35,000 installations, woodWOP is the most successful programming system on the market. The innovative user interface centres on the large graphic area used for displaying work pieces in 3D. The processing parameters can be entered and realistically displayed graphically to program trimming and drilling operations and saw cuts quickly and simply. This ensures optimum programming reliability and ongoing checks throughout the programming process.

“This ‘edition’ model really is a value for money package,” concludes Simon Brooks.

“Production of these machines is bound to be snapped up quickly, so those wishing to discover the amazing price tag for the WEEKE Venture 211 Edition or to arrange a demonstration should call Karen Payen at HOMAG UK on 01332 856500 as soon as possible.”

Weeke Venture 211 Edition CNC Processing Centre

versatile machine and is a perfect addition to both joinery manufacturers and panel processing companies alike.

“This model has been configured with a powerful 12kW HSK routing motor for fast, accurate processing. It comes with WEEKE’s dual circuit tubeless vacuum pad clamping system and its highly accurate LED positioning system for fast set-ups. It

34 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

assistance functions designed to radically simplify working practices.

“The standardising of operating elements and software modules ensures that all HOMAG Group machines can be operated using the same processes with powerTouch.

This standardisation not only simplifies the

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

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PROFILE Open House Event and Special Promotion Help Raise the AXYZ Profile The first of two AXYZ International Open House events took place on 21 October at the company’s recently opened new UK and Continental Europe headquarters on the Telford T54 Business Park. It was attended not only by existing and potential customers but also representatives from many of the leading trade publications, enabling both to evaluate the radically improved machine assembly and service facilities and new or recently launched machine hardware and software solutions.

The event also provided AXYZ International with the opportunity to formally announce an enticing trade discount offer on its Pacer machines. This will provide a massive saving of up to £7,500 when owners trade-in their old Pacer router/s and purchase a brand new AXYZ or Pacer one. In addition to providing customers with such a huge cash discount, it will also enable access to a host of new production enhancements.

The new premises, strategically located just off the M54 motorway with direct links to other major road networks, provides a 100 per cent increase in the company’s assembly, supply and demonstration/showroom facilities, with the latter now featuring an expanded range of the most popular machines from the AXYZ, Pacer and Z power brand portfolios.

The much enlarged workshop also allows for increased machine assembly, refurbishment and storage capabilities, while the dedicated new loading bay is helping to speed up the transportation of AXYZ International machines and accessories to meet critical delivery deadlines.

In addition to marking the first public showing of the new Trident integrated digital print finishing system and the latest Version 16 of the AXYZ PANELBuilder panel processing solution, the Open House event showcased selective machines that were more specific to the woodworking and

AXYZ International’s Open House at their new premises in Telford proved a roaring success

allied industries. These included the highperformance AXYZ 8010 and Pacer 4008 and the lower-cost entry-level Z3 routers.

The twin-carriage AXYZ 8010 has a processing area of 3,048mm (length) by 2,630mm (width) and enables a huge increase in production by running multiple versions of the same job simultaneously, with the added benefit of the radically expanded (up to 33 stations) Automatic Tool Change (ATC) facility for work requiring multiple tools. The Pacer 4008 is built on a single-piece, stress-relieved heavy-duty steel frame and incorporates a fully-zoned aluminium vacuum bed with either manual or automatic switching. The steel gantry runs on high-quality linear bearings and is driven on both sides by servo motors coupled through planetary gearboxes and the latest helical rack and pinion system that enables a more even distribution of the workload, greater cutting accuracy and ultimately a longer machine life due to the system’s multiple gear teeth configuration.

The entry-level Z3 CNC router has a processing area of 1,200mm square and represents a complete re-invention of the workhorse Z Series of machines. It claims superior production tool enhancements by comparison with higher-priced machines in its class, including a welded steel frame,

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linear bearing rails and a multi-purpose aluminium vacuum and clamping bed.

For a limited time, AXYZ International is offering a huge discount on Pacer machines that are traded-in against a brand new AXYZ or Pacer router. In addition to offering a saving of up to £7,500 on the purchase price, it also enables access to a host of new production tool enhancements.

These include the new AXYZ Auto Zone Management facility that ensures the material being processed is always held securely throughout the cutting cycle and the latest A2MC machine control system that greatly reduces ‘bounce’ and vibration caused by sudden acceleration and/or deceleration. Integrated within the A2MC is the new AVS (AXYZ Vision System) which is fully compatible with all of the cutting tools used on AXYZ International machines and which greatly enhances the level of cutting accuracy. Supplementing these machine enhancements are the expanded ATC facility and the latest helical rack and pinion drive system

For further information: Tel: 01952 291600 www.axyz.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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INSTALLATION

HOMAG Partnership Turns Dreams Into Reality for A1 Fitted Kitchens It was back in 2004 when Alan Beckwith, founder of Kent based A1 Fitted Kitchens, set out his dream to build his company into a leading supplier of quality kitchens to builders, developers and architects. Up until then, his business focused on kitchen installations using bought-in products.

“It became clear to me that if we wanted to grow the business we needed to start designing and manufacturing our own kitchen furniture,” explains Alan Beckwith.

He continues, “From the outset, we wanted to build the business on the values of quality and service, and hence the Beckwith Interiors brand was born.

“Bearing in mind the foundational values, the plan was to invest in the best machinery we could afford. This goal led us to the doors of HOMAG UK where we met Charles Smith, the area sales manager for our neck of the woods. From the outset, we always felt very relaxed talking with Charles and the HOMAG UK team. At no point did we ever feel pressured. It seemed that rather than wanting to sell us something, they wanted to understand our business and come up with a solution that would take into account our future growth plans.”

From small beginnings…

“The first equipment we invested in was a BRANDT KD 53 edgebander, a machine which continues to serve us well today. This was followed by a WEEKE Optimat BP 80 pod and rail CNC machine. This equipment enabled us to steadily grow the business. By 2013 however, we had gone as far as we could with the BP 80 and hence the decision to invest in a new CNC machine.

“As a matter of course, we looked into what was on offer in the market place, but it soon became clear that there was only one brand that was going to give us the flexibility and future-proofing we were

36 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Homag’s woodCAD |CAM software includes off-screen job previews to eliminate error time and costs

looking for, and that was WEEKE. “Following in-depth discussions with Charles and the HOMAG UK team it was recommended that we opt for the WEEKE Vantage 100 CNC nesting machine. This would allow us to put on a full size board, cut all the parts out of that board, including shaped parts, and process them in one pass.

“Previously, we had to cut the boards before they went on the BP 80 CNC and then process the parts individually. So there was no question, of course, that this new nesting CNC would save us a considerable amount of time.”

down the line for us to get the maximum out of Vantage 100.

“To achieve this, we had to integrate the Vantage 100 into our manufacturing process so that it was a seamless part of the production line. We had to think about how we were going to get the cut parts off the CNC’s bed and deliver them to the next process.

“That’s when we decided to add a conveyor belt to the out-feed bed of the Vantage 100. So now, when work pieces come off the CNC, they are vacuumed and pushed off onto the conveyor belt which takes them to a label printer.

Totally integrated into the manufacturing process

“The label printer affixes a barcoded label to each part so that when they arrive at the next process, we don’t have to locate the positioning or drilling pattern of each part.

“The WEEKE ABD 050 reads the barcode and knows exactly the number and position of holes to drill on each piece. It is a great little bit of kit. It drills holes, squirts in glue and inserts the dowels automatically which saves so much time. This done, the parts are then ready to go onto the edgebander."

“The Vantage 100 CNC is a very impressive machine in its own right. It has a traverse speed of 96m/min, a powerful main spindle for fast routing, a tool changer and a vertical drill block, so that all the components can be fully machined (except horizontal drilling which is done on our WEEKE ABD 050). The more we looked into our production route, however, we realised we had to look at the processes

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INSTALLATION WEEKE Vantage 100 CNC nesting machine – fast and accurate production with minimal board waste

previously we wouldn’t have discovered the mistake until we came to assemble the real job, by which time it would have cost us considerable time, materials and money.”

Help from HOMAG Finance “Naturally, committing to all this equipment and software was no small outlay for a company like ours, but HOMAG Finance was really helpful.

Software is the key “This whole process has totally transformed what we do. Turn-around time, accuracy and quality rose to a whole new level. There were still areas, however, where we thought we could improve. We still had to put each job into woodWOP 6 which was time consuming. Our goal was to link the whole thing together to work from the front-end right down to the back-end.

“Having discussed the issue with HOMAG, we decided to opt for the woodCAD|CAM software package. This is the heart of the whole system and has changed the way we operate. Everything is now done at the front end; we no longer have to programme at each machine, it’s all done with the woodCAD|CAM software.

“Even if there’s a change at the very last minute, we can make that change and it doesn’t disrupt production. We can stop the operation mid-flow and slot-in something, perhaps a part that’s been damaged from a previous order that needs replacing, and then continue with the original jobs, it’s that easy.

“So the software really is the key to maximising this set-up and it is worth every penny we’ve invested. To get the best out of the software we’ve had five days training up at Castle Donington and that too has been worth its weight in gold. It is also great to know that we have the backup of the technical team to call on whenever we need advice. I’ve always taken the approach that, like most things in life, software requires effort; if you put in the effort, the potential rewards are tremendous.

It is a very, very valuable tool.”

Virtual production “The new set-up has enabled us to take on bigger, more complex and intricate jobs, but of course, these larger projects come with their own set of challenges. Before we had the software we couldn’t have contemplated accepting such complicated bespoke jobs.

“With the woodCAD |CAM software we can ‘virtually’ produce the jobs on screen which allows us to check that all the sizes of intricate pieces fit together properly without having to cut a single board.

“We had a big job recently which when we tried to ‘virtually

They demonstrated a real understanding of our business and our particular financial needs.

“They put together a sensible solution which enabled us to conclude the deal confident in the knowledge that we could afford the financial commitment and would be clear within five years. It was a very helpful, open and candid process.

“With this new manufacturing cell we are very confident about future growth. HOMAG UK has given us the peace of mind to forge ahead with our plans; we haven’t had to over-invest up front as the system will grow with us as our business develops. All in all, we know that the project has been right from design stage through to delivery,” concludes Alan Beckwith.

The WEEKE ABD 050 with barcode recognition for precise drilling and dowel insertion

assemble’ the job it didn’t work because the customer had made errors on some of their measurements. In this instance, we were able to correct the errors with no production costs or time lost;

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If you would like more information or a demonstration of WEEKE machinery or HOMAG software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK: Tel: 01332 856424 Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk www.homag-uk.co.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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PROFILE Sealco Releases Brochure for Exclusive Range Hot off the presses is the stunning new brochure for the Endurance range of handles and letter plates.

Endurance, built to perform better, is available exclusively from top UK independent hardware distributor Sealco.

“We have made sure the photography is spot on,” says Alan Malcolm, Sales Director at Sealco. “We are very pleased with the styling and quality of Endurance and wanted to demonstrate this in the marketing support for customers.”

Endurance offers a great quality, suited range of window and door handles, and letterplates backed up with a 10-year guarantee. Available in Chrome, PVD Gold, Satin Chrome, White and Black finishes.

The suite includes stainless steel options which are salt spray tested for 480 hours, perfect for installations in areas with high

pollution or heavy exposure to the elements.

The brochure is a really useful tool for installers to show to homeowners. It includes all Endurance product testing details, handle and letterplate designs and the full colour choice in a clean lay-out with close-up photography.

“The Endurance range offers high quality hardware at reasonable prices to businesses across the UK when they need it most,” adds Alan. “Customers who have seen the new brochure are impressed by the accuracy of the colours in the photos.”

Sealco holds massive stocks on over 4,000 lines and there’s free next day delivery to mainland UK on orders over £50.

For further information: Tel: 01324 610710 www.sealco-scotland.co.uk

Makita’s Latest 190mm Circular Saw Has 1200 Watt Motor • •

New compact and lightweight design Aluminium base-plate and die-cast guard • 66mm maximum depth of cut Makita’s new HS7601J, mains powered, 190mm circular saw offers a new compact design which reduces the overall size of the machine compared to its predecessor and the use of aluminium for the base plate and in the die-cast blade guard has reduced the weight to just 4kg.

Powered by a 1200w motor, and available in 110v and 240v, the new Makita HS7601J will run up to 5,200rpm and has a maximum depth of cut of 66mm at 90° and 46mm at 45°. The compact design of motor housing includes a flat base which increases stability when the blade is being changed.

The soft grip handle with trigger controls has the forward grip knob moulded as one for enhanced control and balance.

Cutting depth is quickly adjusted with a

38 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

single locking lever and the rear angular guide gives smooth and precise adjustments of the bevel angle. A rear facing exhaust port can be connected direct to a dust extraction unit and does not impede the view of the material to be cut. The aluminium base plate is fully compatible with the Makita Guide Rail Set 197005-0. With low noise and vibration ratings the new HS7601J circular saw will become a tradesman’s choice. It is delivered in a sturdy Type 4 MAKPAC case.

Makita’s expanded guide rail accessory range now offers adapters to fit most of the circular saws, jigsaws and routers in the Makita range of more than 550 innovative and high performance power tools.

Makita’s latest 190mm circular saw

For further information: www.makitauk.com Twitter @MakitaUK Facebook.com/makitauk

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INSTALLATION

Salvador for Shed Manufacturing Leeds based Woodlands Sheds opt for crosscut technology from Daltons Wadkin.

Old established specialist manufacturers of sheds and log cabins, Woodlands Sheds, recognising the need to update and improve their crosscutting capability, approached Daltons Wadkin sales director Andy Walsh to find the ideal solution. After visiting Woodlands’ extensive manufacturing facility Andy was quick to recognise the Salvador Super Angle 600 angle cutting machine as the answer to their requirements and subsequently the machine was delivered and installed by Daltons Wadkin engineers in June at Woodlands’ manufacturing and timber machining plant in Rodley near Leeds.

The fast Salvador Super Angle 600 programmable optimising cross cutting system will cut straight or angles up to 70 degrees with an angle change setting of less than a second and an accuracy of 0.1 degrees. The Daltons Wadkin team were on hand to commission the new equipment and provide familiarisation training and Woodlands director David Moran said, “We are delighted with the new machine. We received expert advice from the Daltons Wadkin team and the supply, delivery and installation went like clockwork. The machine is out performing anything we have had before and we are quite sure that the Salvador will provide huge benefits as time goes along.”

Andy Walsh commented, “Woodlands Sheds are a major manufacturing outfit and the type of products they produce fit the capability and performance of the Salvador like a glove. We were delighted to be in a position to assist Woodlands in this venture and feel sure their investment will be well rewarded.”

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

Salvader Super Angle 600 installed by Daltons Wadkin at Woodlands Sheds

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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DUST EXTRACTION

Nederman Introduces Most Flexible Dust Collector Ever To ensure a perfect fit into virtually any manufacturing application that generates dust, smoke or fumes, Nederman has now introduced its new the L-series, a modular and fully configurable dust collector.

In manufacturing facilities where dust, smoke or fume is generated during the production process, the primary objectives are to create a safe working environment for the workforce whilst achieving low emissions to atmosphere, to meet increasingly stringent environmental and health and safety regulations. Since no two facilities are the same, Nederman has designed its new L-series dust collectors, to be fully flexible and configurable to match a wide range of needs in the collection and recycling of dust, smoke and fumes.

How we create the Perfect Fit The core of any dust collector is the filter media. The Nederman L-series dust collector offers a wide portfolio of filter media in bag or cartridge format, which ensures that performance and filter life is optimised, whatever the contaminant. After selection of the correct filter media, the dust collector is configured to match the required airflow and application characteristics. The L series is modular and assembled from a limited set of stocked panels. This panel stocking enables Nederman to offer very low lead times for all the range, with some standard preconfigured filters available in just two working weeks!

40 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Flexible, efficient and future-proof Nederman’s wide expertise in extraction as well as collection of dust, smoke and fumes helps ensure not only a perfect fit, but also efficiency and a future-proof solution. The new L-series can be expanded to adapt to future process changes or new regulations. New filter modules can easily be added whenever increased filter capacity is required.

Low total cost of ownership The L-series offers low total cost of ownership due to low power consumption, minimum maintenance needs and extended filter lifetime. It can be supplied either pre-assembled or be fully built onsite, for those occasions where access requirements prohibit the installation of an assembled filter. This may also generate considerable savings on shipment costs.

The Nederman L-series is available in ATEX compliant configurations for safe handling of combustible dusts, as well as with a variety of ancillary components and equipment for configuring the dust collector and system to match all of your facilities operation and maintenance needs. These options include pyramid or trough type hoppers, a nohopper venting version, dust discharge valves, dust storage bins with 50 or 100L capacity, integral or floor mounted fans and fan silencers.

Nederman L series extraction system

Nederman L series operational outside manufacturing site

Wide range of applications The portfolio of filter media options and configurations available makes the L-series suitable for a wide variety of applications, including crusher extraction, spray dryers, foundries, mixers, grinders, kilns, welding, plasma cutting, shot blasting, thermal spraying, biomass, mining, metallurgical, food and pharmaceutical processes.

Unlimited capacity Nederman has built the L Series to be suitable for rigorous environments and applications. It is robust, resilient and weatherproof, and whilst the modular method of construction makes the air flow capacity virtually unlimited, there are standard sizes which cater for flows of approximately 5,000 to 300,000m3/hr, dependent on the application and the media selected.

For further information: Tel: 08452 743434 Email: info@nederman.co.uk www.nederman.co.uk

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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.

The

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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

Integrated wood dust extraction systems Nederman solutions, from capture to optimal waste management Fans, filters, conveyors, silos & automated controls Range of filters for any capacity or dust load Nordfab high efficiency clipped ducting UK projects team deliver turn-key solutions

Please contact us to arrange a free site survey

www.nederman.com

www.nederman.co.uk 08452 74 34 34

DUST EXTRACTION

DCS Wins Praise at Victory Victory Leisure Homes, a leading designer and builder of quality leisure homes and lodges, has recently invested in new energy-saving dust extraction equipment from Dust Control Systems (DCS).

Victory Leisure Homes is part of the Rix Group, a 5th generation, family-owned company which was first established over 140 years ago. Victory Leisure was formed as a new company in 2009 and is already quite a success story. After starting out in a former caravan factory in Hull with a workforce of just 35 producing around 5 units a week, the firm soon outgrew its original site and moved to a new purpose-built factory to the west of Hull in Gilberdyke. Today, Victory Leisure has a workforce of 120 and is turning out 15 to 20 units per week.

Final Finish Supervisor, Darren Martin, carries out final checks on 32ft, 2-bed leisure home.

Team leaders Leigh Sutherby and Craig Greaves processing insulation panels at the beam saw which is fitted with an automatic Ecogate damper.

42 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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DUST EXTRACTION When the company decided to invest in a modern dust extraction system they called in DCS to discuss their needs. Peter Nevitt, Managing Director at Victory, explains: “We knew of DCS’s reputation in dust extraction and of their excellent energy saving credentials; and these were important factors for us when selecting a contractor.

As part of the Rix Group, we operate a company-wide philosophy aimed at saving energy and reducing our carbon footprint.”

DCS engineers devised an energyefficient scheme which centred around an externally-sited, high-efficiency, modular filter unit, with rotary valve pressure-free discharge into an existing woodwaste transfer system which feeds waste to a high capacity container trailer. Designed to handle a total airflow capacity of 23,000m3/hr, the system employs a 45kW, low-noise, direct drive main fanset. The filter unit is fitted with Superbag polyester filter bags which employ a patented weaving technique, in tubular format, giving the filter bag a surface which can cope with varying filter loads.

The key energy-saving feature of the system is the installation of an ECOGATE® on-demand system which optimises fan speeds, thereby reducing extraction volumes. An ECOGATE greenBOX12 controller, in conjunction with a variable speed drive, automatically adjusts the speed of the main extraction fan as woodworking machines come on line or shut down – resulting in power savings of over 50% versus a traditional system.

Peter Nevitt adds: “Decommissioning of

DCS modular filter has an airflow capacity of 23,000m3/hr.

the old dust plant and installation of the new equipment was completed very efficiently over our normal week-long holiday shutdown with no disruption to production. We now have an extremely energy-efficient dust extraction system, consuming only the kilowatts needed, in place of a system that ran continuously and at a constant speed for around 10 hours every day.”

For more information: Tel: 0800 040 7116 www.DCSlimited.co.uk Blake Coult (Production Manager) points out kW savings to Mike Morton (Jig Shop Supervisor).

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 Panel & Joinery Production

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WOODWASTE Company Promotes Benefits of Wood Waste Technology’s Heaters Promotional company, Tailor Made Signs and Embroidery has purchased a wood waste heater from Wood Waste Technology so it can save money on heating and waste disposal by burning some of its waste.

For 15 years the company has produced a wide range of promotional items including signage, vehicle livery and promotional goods from its 7000 sq. ft. industrial unit in Daventry, Northamptonshire.

MD of Tailor Made Signs, Lee Pawlett heard about the benefits of wood waste heaters from some of his customers – so decided to find out more. He spoke to MD of Wood Waste Technology, Kurt Cockroft to arrange a survey and a quote – and purchased a WT15 that was installed earlier this year by Wood Waste Technology’s experienced engineers.

Lee says: “As part of our research, we visited some of Wood Waste Technology’s other customers, so were able to see for ourselves the quality of the burners and how much heat they generate. We liked the fact that all types of wood waste can be burnt, not just wood chips. So, although it was a big investment for the company, we could see how it could save us a lot of money each year, as we were spending hundreds of pounds hiring skips, and about £300 a month on diesel to heat the factory for our 15 employees in the colder months.

“Kurt Cockroft says: “We’re always happy to put prospective clients in touch with existing customers, so they can learn more about the operational and financial benefits direct from other companies that are already utilising our biomass technology.”

Lee concludes: “We’ve been delighted with the service received from the team at Wood Waste Technology, and are so pleased to have invested in a wood waste heater.

After all, what’s the point of us paying to dispose of our wood waste, when we can just burn it, and as an extra bonus, heat our factory for free!”

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

44 Panel & Joinery Production NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

The WT15 installed at Tailor Made Signs

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

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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.

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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

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