Manufacturing and Engineering Magazine Issue 413

A3 Cover2_Layout 1 18/01/2015 09:49 Page 1

ISSUE 413

M

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

M M MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

AIRBUS

A PIONEERING SPIRIT

Technological leadership and manufacturing efficiency have set the standard for the aviation industry

ISSUE 413

FERRANTI Still here, and better than ever

SC21

ALSO INSIDE...

4EDM UK Group 4Cube Precision 4BeaverFit

Change for the better...

P32

P12

...Plus much more

IFC_Layout 1 13/11/2014 17:02 Page 1

pages 1.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:10 Page 1

Comment editor’s

ISSUE 413

www.memuk.org

Every reason to look forward to 2015 for global lighting manufac

turers Magazine Manager Daniel Beardsley

I

t wasn’t an easy 2014 for global lighting manufacturers. Some would say, with a heavy heart, this sentiment is an understatement. Yet, with the new year comes new beginnings and a recent restructuring of major international lighting companies is good news for LED makers according to a white paper issued by the IHS. Indeed, the result of this development should usher in renewed vigour in the industry, as margins are improved with the potential for lower prices for consumers.

For the big three lighting suppliers in 2014, the year was paved with obstacles, each recording falling revenue in the first three quarters of the year. But industry insiders are confident these companies will be able to turn the tide this year. It’s good news for the entire industry.

The reorganisation of the lighting manufacturer industry’s top three could turn them into pure-play lighting companies with a focus on dynamic markets, bringing about the potential for greater growth.

Not only will this allow these businesses to reduce the hierarchal burden associated with being part of a large conglomerate, it will allow LED makers to raise capital for further investment.

This month a research team made a number of predictions for the LED and lighting industry for 2015.

They make for interesting reading. Firstly, and perhaps most prominently, the China market will continue to grow. In 2015 it must find ways to overcome a negative perception of product quality to compete with international manufacturers.

The cloud-based smart light market will also grow. While it is unlikely to gain market share in 2015, increased promotion of its benefits will place the industry in prime position for massive growth in 2016. Indeed, the development of new technology will also see new competition and new opportunities. Mass-market adoption of OLED lighting is on its way, if not this year, possibly next, while LED filament bulbs are providing consumers with a new way to enjoy and utilise their lighting set-up.

There’s also Li-Fi, an emerging technology dubbed the “brighter way to communicate”.

Visual light communication is expected to have greater commercial impact in 2015; it’ll be interesting to see how many projects are announced in the next few months.

The automotive industry might also have an impact as new applications drive the optoelectronic components market. Certainly, 2015 will be a lucrative year for such suppliers who maintain a focus on the automotive industry.

Encouraged? We think 2015 is shaping up to be a big year.

Feature Managers Tom Waite Elliott Jenkinson Kyle Joyce Group Editor Daniel Stephens Editor Ciaran Jarosz Contributors Jeff Senior Amy Marsden Art Editor Stacey Brewer Designer Carla Taylor Production Vicki Lindsay Lisa Pollinger Lisa Barrans Accounts Nick Charalambous Manufacturing and Engineering Magazine is published by: Trafalgar Publishing Ltd, 6th Floor, Crown House, Southgate, Huddersfield, HD1 1DE Tel: 01484 437300

Manufacturing and Engineering magazine is published by Trafalgar Publishing Ltd. Company registered in England & Wales. All material is the copyright of Trafalgar Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. Manufacturing and Engineering magazine is the property of Trafalgar Publishing Ltd. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form whole or part without the written permission of a director of Trafalgar Publishing Ltd. Liability: while every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information herein, or any consequence arising from it. In the case of company or product reviews or comments, these have been based upon the true and honest opinion of the Editor at the time of going to press.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

1

contents.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:25 Page 2

Contents

ISSUE 413

www.memuk.org

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING

SECTIONS 14 AEROSPACE 32 ELECTRONICS 44 MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING 62 MARINE 66 ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT

ASSOCIATIONS 8 ADS GROUP

The premier trade organisation advancing the UK Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space industries.

12 SC21

SC21 has delivered a number of benefits to companies such as operational improvement, increased competitiveness, leaner production and cost reduction

66 ACHILLES

Achilles creates and manages a global network of collaborative industry communities.

58 CUBE PRECISION AEROSPACE

REGULARS 4 UPDATE

The latest news from the industry.

72 THE LAST WORD

...Edwin Herbert Land Instant Memories Captured and Printed in 60 Seconds

14 LYNCOLE C 2

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

18 AIRBUS

contents.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:25 Page 3

FEATURES 8 ADS GROUP

14 LYNCOLEC

World class capabilities have made Lyncolec first choice for the aerospace, military and defence sectors

18 AIRBUS

ADS 12 SC21

Technological leadership and manufacturing efficiency have set the standard for the aviation industry

26 BOMBARDIER

Everywhere people travel by land and in the air, a Bombardier product is ready to transport them.

32 FERRANTI

The name known through-out the Aerospace & Defence industry, still here and better than ever.

52 EDM UK GROUP

38 CODA OCTOPUS MARTECH Creating systems for the harshest of environments and deepest oceans.

42 ANALOX

Sensor technology expert Analox marks a successful 2014 with the biggest deal of its history

44 BEAVERFIT

Functional fitness equipment manufactured to the highest standards

48 REVEAL MEDIA

The forefront of frontline technology

50 HIGH TECH ENGINEERING

An enviable reputation has ensured Bedfordshire-based High-Tech remains first choice

52 EDM UK GROUP

EDM UK Group celebrating growth

58 CUBE PRECISION

The highest standards in precision tool design, manufacture, sub-contract machining

62 ACTISENSE

Dedicated to supplying intelligent sensors and interfaces

44 BEAVERFIT

69 ARC ENERGY RESOURCES

Specialists in the supply of corrosion resistant weld overlay cladding and the manufacture of specialist fabrications.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

3

news9_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:36 Page 4

UPDATE

CBI urges government to focus on cutting deficit CUTTING the deficit should be the government’s priority in 2015, the CBI has said, as it also calls for major changes to preserve public services.

In its new year message, the business lobby group says reducing the deficit is a ‘must’ for whichever government takes power next year.

It hails the UK’s economic performance which has left it the strongest among the G7 leading nations.

It also suggests a radical education reform to scrap GCSEs at the age of 16.

John Cridland, the CBI’s director general, said: “We must sustain the best launch pad for the UK economy and our young people. Cementing Britain's reputation in the world as one of the best places to do business has to be a top priority for 2015.

“Our economy is among those enjoying the fastest growth among the G7 nations, with 1.2 million jobs created this year and employment set to grow in every region of the UK in 2015.”

Mr Cridland continued: “For business leaders, deficit reduction is a must for the next government.”

He said the easiest cuts to public services had already been made and the only way to bring down the gap between government spending and income was to take drastic steps to prevent public

services suffering ‘decline through a thousand cuts’.

The CBI suggests integrating health and social care, and a significant increase in services available online.

On education, Mr Cridland said the current system was leaving too many young people behind and he called for GCSEs to be replaced by a four-year learning plan between the ages of 14 and 18.

The CBI has long protested that its members have hundreds of thousands of unfilled vacancies for skilled jobs which it says young people could easily do if they were prepared at school.

Since 2012, the group has regarded the two years spent working towards GCSEs as an unwelcome distraction for 14 to 16-year-olds, especially those wanting to learn skills other than academic ones, our correspondent adds.

The CBI now says GCSEs should be abolished and replaced by tailored learning plans, with each pupil keeping up maths and English as well as a mix of either vocational or academic A levels, to be tested just once at 18.

On the future of Britain's place in the world, Mr Cridland said the majority of CBI members wanted the UK to remain within a reformed EU.

Cardiff University in wind-power project A TEAM of researchers at Cardiff University is working with colleagues from the University of Leuven in an attempt to find ways of developing a so-called ‘super grid’ for sharing wind power across Europe.

The two universities hope that their research project — known as MEDOW (loosely standing for Multi-terminal DC grid for Offshore Wind) and funded by the European Commission — will form 4

the basis of a pan-European electricity transmission network to deliver a single European electricity market, develop sustainable-energy technology and create jobs.

Professor Nick Jenkins, ‘leader of energy’ at the Cardiff School of Engineering, said: “Wind power is a source of ‘clean’, renewable electricity. We need to make more of it to become less reliant on expensive imported ‘fossil fuels’.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

In 2012, over half of the energy that the EU consumed was imported from outside the Union.

“MEDOW is working to develop a DC grid — an efficient way of transmitting and sharing power. A pan-European grid, rather than single point-to-point connections, will re-inforce reliability and help balance power supply and demand.

“New wind farms are likely to be placed offshore, where wind

speeds are higher and turbines less intrusive. As offshore wind power is generated a long way from where it is used, we need to find better ways of transporting the power to the onshore grid.

“Increasing our use of wind power will also support the future electrification of heating and transport, which could make a big difference to carbon emissions and reliance on fuel imports.”

news9_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:36 Page 5

UPDATE IN BRIEF • Inventor Trevor Baylis has been made a CBE in the New Year Honours list.

Best known for creating the Baygen windup radio, Mr Baylis was honoured for services to intellectual property.

• Quantum dots and nanomaterials group Nanoco has signed a manufacturing contract with The Dow Chemical Company ahead of mass production next year.

Dow is scheduled to start commercial production of Nanoco quantum dots in Cheonan, South Korea, in the first half of 2015 to provide supply for its display industry customers.

• Japanese company Kinkisharyo International has decided to open a light-rail manufacturing facility in Los Angeles.

Rather than build a new factory, the company will retrofit an existing facility in Palmdale to build light-rail vehicles for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro).

• Hyundai Motor Co has announced plans to build two new manufacturing plants in China to expand its share in the world's largest car market.

Hyundai said the factories, which will start production in 2016 and 2017, would help it better compete with rivals including Volkswagen and General Motors.

London broadband boosted by fibre to the basement trials THE CITY of London will benefit from new technology trials to boost superfast broadband connectivity, BT have announced.

The new pilot of a fibre to the basement (FTTB) system will give businesses access to superfast broadband connectivity.

BT are testing the technology in two locations in January, with the aim of providing download speeds of up to 80Mbps for homes on the Middlesex Street Estate, and to around 50 small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based at 65 London Wall.

Fibre to the basement reduces the need for street furniture, civil engineering works and road closures, as the integration of fibre broadband into a building takes place in the basement.

Graham Bell, chief information officer of the City of London Corporation, said: "We hope the trials will lead to further expansion of fibre broadband across the Square Mile for residents and SMEs, complementing the ethernet infrastructure already available to larger firms."

• Ultra Electronics, which has operations in Birmingham and Rugeley, Staffordshire, has announced that it has won a 10-year £27 million contract from the Royal Navy to deliver and support new hull-mounted sonar systems for eight Type-23 frigates.

• Surface Transforms, the Liverpool-based brake manufacturer, is to raise up to £1.5 million through a share placing to finance an investment programme.

The group is looking to spend £3.5 million over three years to reduce the cost of manufacturing its products by more than 50%, increase capacity and secure its supply chain. It will also take on additional engineers.

• The first Hawk advanced jet trainer wing set from the recently-established manufacturing facility in Samlesbury, Lancashire has been completed.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

5

news9_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:36 Page 6

UPDATE

Oil industry set for year of mergers and takeovers THE OIL and gas industry is set for a year of mergers and takeovers as a result of the plummeting oil price, a business consultancy has predicted.

PwC said 2015 may bring the first hostile takeover in the sector in living memory.

It warned of "uncertain times" for the estimated 440,000 people employed in the UK's oil and gas industry.

The oil price has fallen from $115 a barrel in the middle of the year to about $60.

Drew Stevenson, PwC’s UK energy deals leader, said: “Oil prices remaining at the current level for a sustained period will light the touch-paper for mergers and acquisitions in 2015.

“As the UK industry positions itself for a more uncertain future, we expect to see deal activity levels pick up throughout the year ahead.”

PwC said the industry would be “increasingly cash-constrained” with new debt coming at a cost, and existing debt coming under increased scrutiny.

Airbus invests £100 million in UK THE EUROPEAN aerospace giant Airbus has announced a £100 million investment in research into the next generation of wing design and manufacture in Wales and the South West, following a funding deal with the Government and the Welsh Assembly.

Wings for the group’s aircraft are designed at its Filton site near Bristol, while much wing assembly work is carried out at its Broughton plant in Flintshire. Airbus employs about 6,000 people at Broughton and around 4,000 at Filton.

Just under half of the £100 million will be

6

invested in Broughton to build a new high-tech production line for A320 and A321 wings; this should be operational by July 2016.

Paul McKinlay, head of the Flintshire plant, said: “This is one of the biggest announcements for many years for Broughton. We may have an order book with work for seven years, but we must not be complacent. We have to stay ahead of our competitors around the world and ensure that this plant keeps ahead of the game and remains the place of choice for wing production.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

Fabrice Brégier, Airbus president and chief executive, said: “The success of Airbus relies on being an innovative company, and the UK plays a pivotal role in this through its wing design and production activities. The British aerospace sector is a world leader, and this investment recognises the huge economic benefits of highly skilled, high-value engineering. We have already invested significantly in our UK sites in the last decade, and this announcement continues our commitment.”

news9_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:36 Page 7

UPDATE

Magna Parva Ltd wins ESA contract

BAE awarded US contract for AMPVs BAE Systems has been awarded a contract worth up to $1.2 billion from the US Army for the Engineering, Manufacturing, and Development (EMD) and Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of the Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV).

The programme aims to provide the U.S. Army with a highly survivable and mobile fleet of vehicles that addresses a critical need to replace the Vietnam-era M113s.

Rolls-Royce to manufacture Trent XWB in Derby

A LEICESTER company has been awarded a contract to protect spacecraft from objects travelling 25 times faster than a speeding bullet.

The European Space Agency has asked Magna Parva Limited to develop materials to provide improved protection against radiation and micrometeorites in space .

The new, low cost hybrid material will help protect spacecraft and the safety of its crew.

Astronauts and satellite electronics can suffer damage from radiation in orbit and the satellites themselves can be damaged by natural interplanetary dust particles or by small pieces of orbital debris.

The project by the Meridian South business park, Braunstone-based, engineering company, will develop laminated materials which provide more protection per kilogram than current options.

Spacecraft in orbit around the Earth continually sustain damage from hyper velocity impact, colliding with micro-meteoroids and orbiting debris (MMOD). Director Andy Bowyer said: “Travelling at orbital velocities reaching speeds of 8km/s, the possible impact is unthinkable. ”To put this into perspective, ballistic objects fired from firearms on Earth travel at around 0.3km/s.

“Whilst the majority of orbiting debris and micro-meteoroids are small enough to not be a worry, a need for protection is established.

“A small fraction of the MMOD population is

large enough to cause potentially catastrophic damage. “ Large objects in orbit around Earth are tracked such that space craft can be manoeuvred and collisions can be avoided.”

He added: “ The second motive behind the development of the ‘Low Cost Hybrid Materials’ is radiation.

“In the space environment radiation takes the form of energetic particles, these originate from supernova explosions and other high energy events outside the solar system.

“There are also Solar Energetic Particles which originate from the sun. The Earth’s magnetosphere blocks out the majority of radiation, but at increasing altitudes, and beyond Earth orbit, exposure levels increase.

“The risk of collision with MMOD and increasing exposure to radiation needs to be mitigated.”

Magna Parva will be supported by the expertise of a number of high technology companies and universities from across the UK. Mr Bowyer added: “This provides an exciting step for the company into a new business area.

“The materials we develop in this contract will be particularly useful in deep space missions such as those planned for the Orion capsule.”

The company, which develops technology for hostile environments, for the space, medical, diagnostics, science defence, security and oil and gas sectors, has previously helped to create an instrument aimed at finding biological molecules on the surface of Mars.

Rolls-Royce has announced that its Derby facility will be the main production centre for its latest Trent XWB engine. The Trent XWB is the world’s most efficient large aero engine and the fastest-selling wide body engine ever, with more than 1,500 engines sold to date and is the engine chosen to power the new Airbus A350 XWB. Rolls-Royce has invested around £30m expanding its Derby Assembly and Test Facility and installing new equipment, in order to meet customer demand for the engine. Over the next three to four years, Trent XWB production will grow to over 300 engines a year — the equivalent of one every working day — and will stay at that level for several years.

BMW to roll-out plug-in hybrids The BMW Group is planning to launch plug-in hybrid versions of its core models as part of a “multi-track approach to sustainable mobility”.

The company is to demonstrate a BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype at its Miramas test track in France, along with a new generation of hybrid vehicle concepts incorporating technology already used in BMW i models.

BMW said the plug-in hybrid technology is so flexible that it can be integrated in a wide variety of vehicle concepts, making it possible to deploy it rapidly across the company’s model range.

The technology will allow BMW to introduce high-performance vehicles with CO2 emissions well below 100gm/km.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

7

ADS9_feature 2 15/01/2015 12:33 Page 8

ASSOCIATION ADS GROUP

PLENTY OF POSITIVES IN CHANCELLOR’S AUTUMN STATEMENT New support for the UK’s high value, high tech manufacturing businesses has ADS Group looking positively to 2015 Following the Chancellor's Autumn Statement deliver in December, the ADS Group ‘s Paul Everitt, Chief Executive, spoke of the importance of the Government’s support for the UK’s high value, high tech manufacturing businesses. “The Chancellor’s statement delivered some important new support for the UK’s high value, high tech

8

manufacturing businesses. The Government’s Industrial Strategies prioritise innovation, skills and exports and the measures outlined will help boost UK businesses and their long-term growth ambitions. High value manufacturing delivers well-paid jobs that can support the aspirations of families and communities across the country.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

ADS Group is the UK trade organisation representing the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors. ADS is focused on representing the interests of these valuable wealth producing industries in the UK and overseas to key stakeholders, government, and the media.

ADS plays an instrumental role in bringing Industry and

government, working closely and collaboratively to maintain and grow the UK’s world leading position in these industries. In doing so, these sectors will support and facilitate a sustainable UK economic recovery, securing future sector prosperity through a strong strategy and united approach.

Everitt was eager to emphasise

ADS9_feature 2 15/01/2015 12:33 Page 9

ASSOCIATION ADS GROUP

other positives from the Chancellor’s statement such as its encouraging approach to innovation. “Supporting innovation to remain ahead of growing global competition lies at the heart of the Industrial Strategies. Raising the rates of R&D tax credits, establishing the materials research centre and the additional funding for the successful High Value

Manufacturing Catapult centres will help our sectors invest in the technologies of tomorrow,” he said.

On apprentices he said: “Around 60% of UK aerospace, defence, security and space companies employ apprentices, providing high value and highly skilled employment. The measures announced to make it less costly for employers to take on an

apprentice will encourage more businesses, especially small businesses, to consider their skills to ensure they have the right people to continue to innovate and compete in the long-term.”

Elsewhere on space, he said: “The recent Rosetta Mission provided an opportunity to shine a light on the exciting work underway in the UK Space sector

here. Recognising this, the Chancellor has committed £55m towards European Space Agency programmes in which the UK will play a pivotal role in developing the technologies that make these programmes possible.”

The outcome is the UK aerospace industry is growing ten times faster than the UK overall, employs 109,100 people directly

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

4 9

ADS9_feature 2 15/01/2015 12:33 Page 10

ASSOCIATION ADS GROUP and supports many thousands in other sectors. The sector has grown 14% annually since 2011, with improved business confidence, investment and a focus on driving growth through exports. Paul says: “The Aerospace Growth Partnership has worked hard to put the right support in place to help UK industry make the most of significant increases in demand for new aircraft. The positive impact of this work is being felt, with almost three quarters of companies planning to increase investment next year and one in four looking at reshoring activity back to the UK.” ADS has around 900 members in the UK, ranging from small start-ups to large corporations and global operations. They include manufacturers, equipment suppliers, service companies and operators and, for them, the organisation provides support in many ways. “ADS offers a packed programme of more than 170 events per year in addition to organising UK groups at international exhibitions, offering a valuable opportunity for

10

ADS GROUP IS THE UK TRADE ORGANISATION REPRESENTING THE AEROSPACE, DEFENCE, SECURITY AND SPACE SECTORS networking and forging new connections,” outlines Paul. “We facilitate access to the latest tender and business opportunities and provide assistance for SMEs with government funding and business development or building links with prime contractors. ADS has an important role to play in influencing UK and EU governments, representing the interests of industry. Members can participate in more than sixty boards, committees and special interest groups which offer a valuable mechanism to discuss and debate particular issues or challenges faced by businesses.”

The biggest and best known event is the Farnborough International Airshow, organised by wholly-owned subsidiary Farnborough International Limited. This year’s event

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

attracted more than 100,000 trade visitors and 1,500 exhibitors from 75 countries, affording ADS members the opportunity to showcase the country’s worldleading capabilities to a global audience. A record breaking $201 billion of orders and commitments were made at the show.

Another arm of ADS is the British Aviation Group, the leading representative body for UK companies in the airport and aviation development sector. It has 200 member companies and its primary role is to help UK companies win business in the UK and overseas as well as helping them identify suppliers.

ADS is a member of the Aerospace and Defence Federation that unites alliances and provides a single voice for the industries. It manages SC21 (21st

ADS9_feature 2 15/01/2015 12:34 Page 11

ASSOCIATION ADS GROUP

ADS has a packed programme of more than 170 events per year

Century Supply Chains) that aims to improve supply chains for increased competitiveness of UK industry. Paul says: “Around 650 businesses are on the continuous improvement journey, more than 300 of which have been presented with an award for their work on the programme. To achieve an SC21 award, a company must demonstrate world-class business performance in all aspects, including delivery and services to customers, internal business efficiency and a continuous sustainable improvement culture throughout the organisation.”

Recent years have seen increased collaboration between industry and government to develop strategies, identify new opportunities and make the most of them. Its relationship with key influencers and decision makers enabled ADS, as Paul explains, to significantly influence the content of the Defence Reform Act:

“During the legislative process, ADS played an active role in lobbying at each stage of the Bill to ensure key decision-makers were aware of key industry concerns.

ADS engaged constructively with Ministers, MPs and key MOD officials to propose positive and constructive solutions to improve it. As a result, many of these solutions have been adopted.”

Its work on the Defence Reform Act resulted in important changes that ensured intellectual property will be protected and the Single Source Regulatory Office will remain impartial. Additional exemption of contracts from the new regulations will only be applied in exceptional circumstances, MOD challenges to contract prices will be limited number and SMEs will be protected from excessive burdens.

For more information: www.adsgroup.org.uk

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

11

sc21.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:27 Page 12

ADS GROUP SC21

CHANGE FOR THE BETTER SC21 has delivered a number of benefits to companies such as operational improvement, increased competitiveness, leaner production and cost reduction SC21 is a change programme designed to accelerate the competitiveness of the aerospace and defence industry by raising the performance of its supply chains. International competition, together with the challenges posed by the defence industrial strategy, necessitates rapid improvement in the effectiveness of supply chains.

At the same time, industry must ensure that it delivers competitive solutions for customers whilst maintaining profitable business growth.

Since 2006, SC21 has seen companies benefiting from a large range of benefits and savings, such as reduced overheads from implementing business excellence and lean principles through the Bus Ex and Man Ex tools.

Companies have also seen operational improvement with minimal costs to the business, increased competitiveness, leaner 12

production, cost reduction and lower set-up times.

However, the real evidence can be seen in the benefits brochure which was developed as a result of a direct survey, sent to all signatories in 2010 for their feedback.

Through participating in SC21 your business will also understand better how the industry will be changing in the future and you will be kept aware of developments in the sector and the activities regarding your colleagues on the SC21 programme.

Crucially, it costs nothing to subscribe to SC21. However, to fully engage in the change programme it will require the commitment of some resources, but the benefits will easily outweigh the cost.

The total number of companies committed to SC21 doubled within two months of its launch in 2006. Now more than 100 new companies are signing up to the

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

programme every year. The more companies that join this initiative, the greater the benefit to the UK supply chain. The risk however, to those businesses that have not embraced SC21, or more importantly continuous improvement, and therefore are not progressing (on the industry designed and owned) programme, may lose out to those who are proactively engaging.

Signatories to SC21 are committed to developing supply chains to ensure they remain competitive and able to deliver increased value to customers. To be a signatory to the SC21 action plan you do not have to be a large prime company, as companies are encouraged to join from all levels in the supply chain.

SC21 signatory companies are committed to a number of initiatives. Firstly, they must adopt a new SC21 business culture to effect fundamental business

transformation. SC21 will work openly and transparently, through sharing information and working collaboratively, to deliver benefits across the industry.

SC21 will build on success to enable the industry to be a leader in the development of competitive value chains. It will pursue the most competitive solutions for customers, by accessing innovation and specialist expertise, while encouraging innovation and investment of all types throughout the supply chain, achieved through providing a more trusting and open environment.

Other areas include throughlife solutions, leadership and ethical practices. As a signatory to this action plan, adherence to the commitments will be tested annually and that performance will be measured and published. SC21 will help in the development of this plan by sharing experiences.

sc21.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:27 Page 13

ADS GROUP SC21

www.adsgroup.org.uk

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

13

lyncolec.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 18:29 Page 14

AEROSPACE LYNCOLEC

PERFORMANCE 4 Lyncolec provides high reliability Printed Circuit Board (PCB) services incorporating Technoflex technology. The manufacturer is Nadcap and SC21 Silver accredited and supplies PCBs to the highest possible standard. These accreditations recognise Lyncolec’s world-class capabilities and its focus on meeting the highest levels of quality assurance for products developed for the aerospace, military and defence industries.

Lyncolec was recently acquired by Spirit Circuits, one of the UK’s most innovative PCB manufacturers. The business enjoys a unique suite of services. Indeed, it doesn’t just manufacture circuit boards, but offers an extensive com-

plement of PCBs. The acquisition of Lyncolec has strengthened its position in the market.

Lyncolec is well-known for supplying rigid, flexi or hybrid multi-layered PCBs. Acquiring Lyncolec will enable Spirit to expand its portfolio offerings and cement its position in the High Reliability PCB Market.

Spirit’s Managing Director, Steve Driver said: “This is a strategic acquisition for Spirit.

Lyncolec’s successes have seen it achieve approvals in the medical, military and aviation industries, which are all sectors that Spirit is actively working and looking to expand in.” He added: “Nigel Rogers, Chairman of Lyncolec, has made some fantastic achievements within his company and the PCB manufacturing industry.”

www.spiritcircuits.com Tel: 023 9224 3000 14

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

Lyncolec is renowned in the High Reliability Market for the quality and complexity of products it manufactures. From its UK manufacturing facility it offers customers a truly diverse range of PCBs from simple single sided through to complex multilayers.

When Spirit Circuits acquired Lyncolec Limited in December 2013, there was an air of excitement over future plans and how the company would progress and grow.

Since the acquisition, much has been done to improve the business and invest in the staff, equipment and buildings through the work of a programme called LIPs (Lyncolec Improvement Plans). The aim of LIPs is to improve staff and welfare, customer service and plant, machinery

lyncolec.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 18:29 Page 15

AEROSPACE LYNCOLEC

IS EVERYTHING

World class capabilities have made Lyncolec first choice for the aerospace, military and defence sectors

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

15

lyncolec.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 18:29 Page 16

AEROSPACE LYNCOLEC

16

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

lyncolec.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 18:29 Page 17

AEROSPACE LYNCOLEC and buildings, elevating Lyncolec to a world class supplier.

Ian Hood has been appointed as General Manager at Lyncolec and has been working with his fantastic team of committed employees to produce the required results. “We have made substantial improvements in all aspects of the business, improvements in software systems, purchasing of new equipment, improvements in process and department lay-outs.

However, one of the most important improvements has been our LIPs progamme. We have developed a culture of change where our employees “love our business”, and embrace these changes.”

Making products for aerospace, medical and automotive applications is serious business, but Ian tries to ensure that the team still has some fun. “I see my job as facilitating and maximising our resources, whilst ensuring that everyone is happy, from our customers to our employees.”

Ian recognises the impact of his role as General Manager on the rest of the Lyncolec team, working hard to remove the obstacles that prevent them from doing a good job. “As a manager I believe that practically 95% of all issues and obstacles are caused by management and only management can remove these obstacles, from inadequate procedures to ineffectively maintained processes.”

“The secret to our success is the involvement and empowerment of all our employees”

Since Ian has been in the post, the culture of Lyncolec has improved dramatically. “Prior to the introduction of the LIPs programme, change was something that was not embraced. When we started on this journey we had many sessions with all personnel to ensure that we were all committed to and would embrace change.

What we got was a fantastic response from all the employees at Lyncolec and they have all embraced the LIPs programme to the point that everyone happily promotes this through aspects like wearing badges with LIPs ‘Love your Business’ on their company overalls.”

And what does the future hold for Lyncolec? “The secret to our success is the involvement and empowerment of all our employees. We are about to start a comprehensive Lean Journey, without people being the centre of our manufacturing process, LEAN Manufacture becomes MEAN Manufacture.”

Lyncolec’s offerings include: Sculptured Flex, Multilayer Flexi-Hybrid, Pinflex PCBs, Flex Assembly, Design on Flex, Multilayers up to 20 layers, Multilayer blind and buried vias, Plated through flexible, Single sided flexible, Plated through hole double sided, and Single sided.

The sectors in which it works include: Defence, Military, Aerospace, Automotive, Oil & Gas, Mining and Medical.

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

17

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:29 Page 18

AEROSPACE AIRBUS GROUP UK

PIONEERING SPIRIT Airbus is the world’s leading commercial aircraft manufacturer whose customer focus, commercial know-how, technological leadership and manufacturing efficiency have set the standard for the aviation industry.

18

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:29 Page 19

AEROSPACE AIRBUS GROUP UK

4

The Airbus Group, which has its headquarters in Toulouse, France, is a multinational aerospace and defence corporation consisting of three divisions: Airbus, Airbus Defence and Space, and Airbus Helicopters. Airbus SAS is the company’s manufacturing division. Based in Blagnac, France, the company runs production and manufacturing facilities both in France and elsewhere in Europe including Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Across these four countries, Airbus employs more than 60,000 people at sixteen different sites where it has produced the first commercially viable fly-by-wire airliner, the Airbus A320, and the world's largest passenger airliner, the A380.

In the UK, the Group has generated more than 100,000 jobs both directly and indirectly through its extended supply chain of over 400 companies. At Filton, over 4,000 people are employed in the design office and in business support roles such as procurement, finance and customer service. Core activities at Filton include the design, engineering and support for Airbus wings, fuel systems and landing gear integration. Teams also work on systems,

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

19

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 20

AEROSPACE AIRBUS GROUP UK structures, and aerodynamics research, development and test facilities.

More than 2,000 engineers at Filton are involved in a range of areas, including wing integration, flight physics, structures and systems.

Filton also is responsible for wing assembly and equipping for the A400M multi-role airlifter.

AEROSPACE BUSINESS PARK Airbus’ presence in Filton is being enhanced with the construction of a new aerospace business park that consolidates the site’s engineering, design, customer support and other employees into one highly efficient office block.

Features of this 12-acre facility, which Airbus began building in March 2012, include modern office space and an auditorium.

At its Broughton site, where such aviation classics as De Havilland’s Comet and Mosquito were produced during its history – staff are responsible for assembling the wings for all Airbus civil aircraft, including the new A350 XWB. Producing over 1,000 wings a year, the site employs more than 6,000 people – primarily in manufacturing, but also in engineering and support functions such as procurement and finance.

After assembly at Broughton, the A380’s wings are transported by road and then by river craft to Mostyn harbour, where they are loaded onto a custom-built roll-on, roll-off ferry for the trip to France.

SUCCESSES Recent successes in the UK include eastJet’s order of 27 additional A320 engines, taking its combined total order for the type to 315 aircraft. With an all Airbus fleet, easyJet selected the A320 Family aircraft as it delivers the best operating economics and the roomiest cabin for unequalled passenger comfort in the single aisle category.

“easyJet is the largest A320 Family customer and operator in Europe and operates one of Europe’s most extensive route networks.”

“We are bringing new aircraft into the fleet as we continue to see a significant number of new profitable opportunities in our core markets in the near term and in order to maintain our cost advantage,” said Carolyn McCall, easyJet Chief Executive. “easyJet is a demanding customer and this repeat order is as solid an endorsement as you can get for the A320’s proven productivity, reliability and comfort. The A320 Family has the widest cabin which also helps with faster air-

port turnaround times,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

The A320 Family aircraft already offer the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft and the Sharklet wing tip devices help to reduce fuel burn by a further 4% and to increase range by 100nm.

Currently the low-cost airliner operates a fleet of some 225 A320 Family aircraft. In June 2013, easyJet became a customer for the A320neo, with an order for 100 aircraft.

Altogether, with this latest order, easyJet’s combined total order for all members of the A320 Family rises to 415 aircraft.

LARGEST OPERATOR IN EUROPE easyJet is the largest A320 Family customer and operator in Europe and operates one of Europe’s most extensive route networks. The airline is the UK’s largest by numbers of passengers carried. The A320 Family is the world’s most successful with nearly 11,000 ordered and over 6,200 delivered to over 400 customers and operators.

After a thorough technical evaluation, easyJet has earmarked the Airbus A320neo for its future fleet requirements. Based on the company’s growth forecasts, the A320 was selected for offering the best productivity, lowest operating cost and best fuel efficiency of any single aisle aircraft in the 180 seat sector. Currently 20

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 21

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 22

AEROSPACE AIRBUS GROUP UK easyJet operates a fleet largely based on the smaller A319 seating 156 passengers.

“The NEO is without doubt the most productive and fuel efficient aircraft around. It has the widest and tallest cabin of any single aisle aircraft for faster turnaround operations and better passenger comfort. We are delighted our reliable aircraft have met easyJet’s demanding criteria,” added John Leahy. This order will sustain nearly 2,500 jobs as well as some 7,500 in the extended supply chain in the UK.

IMPROVING AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES Elsewhere this year, air traffic service provider NATS has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus ProSky to jointly devise solutions for improving the air traffic system’s efficiency.

This agreement was signed by NATS Chief Executive Officer Richard Deakin and PaulFranck Bijou, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus ProSky – which is an Airbus subsidiary dedicated to the development and support of modern air traffic management (ATM) systems.

An early priority for this collaboration will be the improvement of airport resilience in adverse weather, including in low visibility, thunderstorms and high headwinds. NATS and Airbus ProSky also will work together – contributing their respective expertise in air traffic management and innovative solutions for airborne capabilities – to target ways of improving capacity by enhancing airport technology and proce-

22

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

dures. Other cooperation areas include air traffic flow management and airspace design.

Launched in 2011, Airbus ProSky – which includes the Metron Aviation, Quovadis and ATRiCs companies – is committed to working side-by-side with air navigation service providers, aircraft operators and airport authorities to build a truly collaborative system with greater capacity, better performance and environmental sustainability for all stakeholders.

In addition, Airbus is playing a key role in a new UK collaborative research and development project with the goal of improving modelling techniques to support aerospace technology inno-

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 23

Universal strain gauge amplifier features high channel density he MX1615B strain gauge bridge amplifier is perfect for stress analysis, particularly for applications in experimental stress analysis; enabling connection of up to 16 sensors or strain gauges (SG) in full-, half-, or quarterbridge configurations. Only one module is required to measure all mechanical quantities.

T

This amplifier offers unrivalled channel density and supports full integration into the modular data acquisition system. All channels support TEDS; they also have been designed for compatibility with Âą10V voltage signals and Pt100 temperature sensor connections.

It further distinguishes itself with its 4-, 5-, and 6-wire circuit-based patented technology, employing carrier frequency methods and cyclical auto-adjustment on all channels. All these features make the amplifier particularly rugged and insensitive to electromagnetic and thermal interference from converters, high currents, electric motors, or temperature effects. The amplifier also can support applications involving distant measurement sites. Ethernet TCP/IP allows integration of the MX1615B close to the measurement point to obtain the shortest possible sensor lines.

The MX1615 can easily be combined with other modules to rapidly create distributed measurement architecture because it forms part of HBM’s comprehensive QuantumX measuring system. This means that it can easily be combined with analog outputs, digital inputs/outputs, CAN bus or EtherCAT connections.

Data transfer to a PC is simplified by the use of Ethernet TCP/IP. For more information please see: www.hbm.com

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 24

AEROSPACE AIRBUS GROUP UK vation under auspices of the Aerospace Growth Partnership and UK Centre of Aerodynamics.

This project – called Geometry Handling and Integration (GHandI) – brings together organisations from the UK aerodynamics community that are leading the exploration and optimisation of new airframe shapes, and represents a £5m investment shared between the UK’s Technology Strategy Board innovation agency and industry.

Missile system developer and manufacturer MBDA is leading the effort, which in addition to Airbus, includes Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems, aerodynamic modelling and technology providers (Transcendata, Altran UK Ltd, ARA and Cambridge Flow Solutions), along with teams from five universities (Queens University Belfast and the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge, Southampton and Strathclyde).

KNOWLEDGE-SHARING In addition to developing improved modelling techniques, the project will facilitate knowledge-sharing and give individuals and teams opportunities to work together on research and development, as well.

“Improving aerodynamic modelling techniques is becoming increasingly important as we move forward,” said Airbus Head of Business Development Colin Sirett. “Design is

24

becoming more complex and sophisticated as we endeavour to combine quality and performance with efficiency and sustainability.

“By forging partnerships with the wider aerodynamics community and working with experts in industry and academia, we will be able to develop as a team and share techniques that will benefit the wider UK aerospace industry.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE As Airbus looks to the future of air travel, it sees larger cabins as being key to its development.

The new Airbus ACJ319 will be the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet, and will feature lounge areas at the front, a bedroom with ensuite bathroom and shower in the middle, and business-class seating in the rear, and is certificated for 19 passengers.

“More space in the cabin is desirable for many reasons other than the greater comfort and freedom of movement that it brings,” explains John Leahy. “The larger cabin volume and floor-area of Airbus corporate jets means you can take more people with you when you travel, be more productive along the way, and carry more baggage.”

The desire for a large cabin is one of the findings of Airbus’ ACJ Billionaire Study, announced earlier this year, which highlighted the wish of high net-worth individuals to take

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

with them when they travel, those that look after them at work and at home.

Airbus’ ACJ318, ACJ319, ACJ320 and ACJ321 fit into the same sort of ramp space as traditional business jets, but their cabins are almost twice as large, offering a very different travel experience, in which people can socialise more easily by moving around the cabin.

Airbus corporate jets deliver more than traditional business jets, such as extra baggagespace, pilot-pleasing Category 3B autoland, and mechanic-friendly engine and systems access.

Part of the world’s most modern aircraft family, Airbus’ ACJ318, ACJ319, ACJ320 and ACJ321 are enjoying huge success with airlines, which have now ordered more than 11,000 of them.

VERSATILITY This airliner heritage confers robust reliability, the likelihood of finding other operators of similar aircraft wherever a customer flies, and an all-encompassing network supporting more than 500 customers and operators around the world. Airbus has sold over 170 corporate jets to date, and these aircraft are flying on every continent, highlighting their versatility.

www.airbus.com

airbus_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:30 Page 25

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 26

AEROSPACE BOMBARDIER

THE EVOLUTION OF

MOBILITY

Everywhere people travel by land and in the air, a Bombardier product is ready to transport them.

26

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 27

AEROSPACE BOMBARDIER

4

As the world’s only manufacturer of planes and trains, Bombardier has built an extensive and diverse portfolio of winning mobility solutions. Everywhere people travel by land and in the air, a Bombardier product is ready to transport them. From category-defining business jets and commercial aircraft designed for the challenges of today, to sleek high speed trains and public transit that’s smarter than ever.

But it’s not just its products and services that make the company a global leader. The most important success factor is its employees, all 76,400 of them. Together Bombardier is focused on making mobility more efficient, sustainable and inviting than ever before. The company refers to this as The Evolution of Mobility.

The company’s operations cover both aerospace and land transportation. For aerospace,

Bombardier has more than 37,700 employees and a leadership position in global markets.

Bombardier Aerospace designs, manufactures and supports innovative aviation products for the business, commercial, specialised and amphibious aircraft markets. It has the most comprehensive aircraft portfolio and holds the number one position in business and regional aircraft. Its high-performance aircraft and services set the standard of excellence in several markets, including business aircraft (Learjet, Challenger and Global aircraft families), commercial aircraft (new CSeries program, CRJ Series and Q-Series aircraft families), and amphibious aircraft (Bombardier 415 and Bombardier 415 MP aircraft).

The company also produces specialised aircraft solutions such as aircraft modified for special misContinued on page 304

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

27

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 28

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 29

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 30

AEROSPACE BOMBARDIER sions, as well as additional aircraft services and training.

For land transportation, Bombardier has 63 production and engineering sites in 26 countries and 19 service centres across the world.

The company covers the full spectrum of rail solutions, ranging from complete trains to subsystems, maintenance services, system integration and signalling. Its installed base of rolling stock exceeds 100,000 rail cars and locomotives worldwide. Transport solutions include rail vehicles (automated people movers, monorails, light rail vehicles, advanced rapid transit, metros, commuter/regional trains, intercity/ high-speed trains and locomotives), propulsion and controls, bogies (product portfolio for the entire range of rail vehicles) and fleet maintenance, operations and maintenance (O&M), vehicle refurbishment and modernisation, and material management.

SIGNIFICANT PRESENCE Bombardier has a significant presence, a strong track record and established history in the UK with both its Aerospace and Transportation divisions. In 1989, the world’s first aircraft manufacturer, Short Brothers plc (Shorts), was acquired by Bombardier from the UK Government. Since then, with Bombardier investment of almost £2.5bn, the company has become an integral part of the world's third largest civil aircraft manufacturer.

From design through manufacture to aftermarket support, Bombardier Aerospace in Belfast specialises in major aircraft structures including fuselages, wings, engine nacelle systems, and flight control surfaces in metal and advanced composites. With first-class capabilities and a workforce of around 6,000, the Belfast operation plays a pivotal role in all Bombardier's families of commercial and business aircraft. In addition to Bombardier programmes, customers include Airbus, General

Electric, International Aero Engines, Irkut Corporation, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce.

Bombardier Aerospace is the largest manufacturing company in Northern Ireland and produces around 10% of Northern Ireland's total manufacturing exports. An extensive supply chain includes around 800 approved suppliers in the UK and Ireland, and a further 100 in Europe. A percentage of pre-tax profits is allocated to the Bombardier Aerospace (NI) Foundation each year to help fund Northern Ireland-based initiatives, mainly in the areas of environment, education and entrepreneurship.

The foundation also supports employees who take part in volunteering projects in their local communities.

Bombardier Transportation, the rail division of Bombardier, has around 3,500 employees at eight sites and 23 service locations across the UK. The company has important sites at Crewe, Plymouth, Derby and Burton on Trent. It also operates from several locations in and around London, including its heavy maintenance depot at Ilford. Bombardier’s Derby site, which has produced a significant proportion of the UK’s latest technology rolling stock for both mainline train operations and London Underground, forms part of the world’s largest cluster of rail companies.

The cluster comprises a supply base of approximately 100 companies, collectively employing around 25,000 people and contributing around £2.6bn to the local and national economies.

FLYBE’S OPERATIONS Exampling the company’s success in the UK was the introduction of Flybe’s operations out of London City Airport utilising Bombardier’s Q400 aircraft. This service significantly boosts connectivity between Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin, Inverness, Exeter and the heart of London.

Optimised for short-haul operations, the Q400 aircraft is a large, fast, quiet and fuel-efficient turboprop. It provides the perfect balance of passenger comfort and operating economics with a reduced environmental footprint.

30

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

bombardier_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:32 Page 31

AEROSPACE BOMBARDIER

The Q400 aircraft is the fastest new-technology turboprop, providing both jet speed and turboprop fuel efficiency. The aircraft’s economics and operational flexibility allow airlines to profitably deploy it in a variety of ways to serve typical short-haul turboprop routes, as well as medium-haul jet markets.

OPTIONAL DUAL-CLASS INTERIOR Q400 aircraft are available with an optional dual-class interior for enhanced passenger comfort; an optional extra-capacity configuration with up to 86 seats for high-density markets; and a cargo-passenger combi-configuration.

As of September 30, 2014 Bombardier had recorded firm orders for a total of 514 Q400 aircraft. Worldwide, Q400 aircraft have transported more than 295 million passengers and have logged over 4.7 million flight hours and more than five million take-offs and landings.

The Q400 aircraft program includes over 50 customers and operators in close to 40 countries on five continents.

“Flybe is a valued, long-time Bombardier customer and [the introduction of the Q400] marks a significant landmark in the growth of the airline as it inaugurates its much-anticipated re-entry at London City Airport, said Ryan

With the introduction of the Q400 aircraft, Bombardier invented the modern turboprop and it is ideally suited for operations at London City Airport.

DeBrusk, Vice President, Sales, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Earlier this year we entered into a strategic agreement designed to operationally enhance Flybe’s fleet, and now – with the airline’s recent third-party acquisition of an additional 24 aircraft that will increase its fleet to 59 - Flybe will become the largest operator of Q400 turboprops in the world. We are pleased that Flybe continues to show its long-term commitment to the Q400 aircraft and excited by the airline’s future prospects.”

“Purple Flybe Q400 aircraft will be a regular feature in the skies above the City of London as we begin daily services with six aircraft into/from London City Airport. This can only benefit our profile and reach over the longer term as knowledge of Flybe's role in connecting the UK regions and Ireland with London becomes more widespread. Our new London City routes provide direct links for customers in

the regions to the heart of London’s financial district,” added Saad Hammad, Chief Executive Officer, Flybe.

TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED With the introduction of the Q400 aircraft, Bombardier invented the modern turboprop and it is ideally suited for operations at London City Airport. It is one of the world’s most technologically advanced and community-friendly aircraft, with environmental credentials that allow it to service some of the most noise-sensitive airports across the globe.

In addition, the Q400 aircraft’s ability to operate on short runways and its jet-like climb make it suitable for operation in heavily populated, urban environments such as London City Airport.

For more information: www.bombardier.com

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

31

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 32

ELECTRONICS FERRANTI

INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE Ferranti Technologies Ltd – The name known through-out the Aerospace & Defence industry, still here and better than ever.

32

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 33

ELECTRONICS FERRANTI

4

With a legacy spanning over forty years, Ferranti Technologies can invoke feelings of nostalgia and intrigue. It’s a name familiar to most although many aren’t fully aware what it’s doing today.

Ferranti undertakes a wide range of work, predominantly for the aerospace and defence industries and delivered by three business units. The Power and Control business unit designs and engineers its own products and those for other companies, Avionics & Mission Systems localises and adds functional design to high technology systems developed by the parent company and finally Manufacturing & Support fully supports products both internally and for external customers.

The third business unit is headed by Operations Director Rob Wood, who says: “Our Manufacturing business unit sets Ferranti Technologies apart from its competitors since we are able to fully support

our own and contract manufactured products throughout their entire lifecycle. We even have a clean room and the skill to repair and maintain mechanical gyroscopes that are a 20-30 year old design. That skill hardly exists today but we’re hanging onto it because there is still a support need.”

Production Projects Manager Tony Bird adds: “Due to the complexity and safety criticality of our products and the high level of service provided, our customer relationships tend to be deep and long-lasting, understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses and growing stronger as a result.”

This has been emphasised by Ferranti Technologies’ involvement with the 21st Century Supply Chains (SC21) programme, which includes working closely with sponsoring customers, understanding each other’s ways of working and consequently developing stronger partnerships.

Ferranti Technologies achieved SC21 silver standard in 2013. There are key meas-

ures for production; on time in full delivery and PPM, a quality measure, but also management, business and several manufacturing excellence audits. These look at internal processes such as leadership, communication, people, processes and quality, to set a benchmark and goals to improve it.

“Through SC21, we undertake relationship management days during which we do a 360 review, look at where the gaps are and talk openly about improving them. We find it’s a good process to follow when new teams come on board as well,” comments Tony.

The silver standard was achieved despite being a manufacturer of complex products in relatively low quantities where even small numbers of returns have a significant impact on quality figures. Nevertheless, the effort has been worthwhile due to the resulting supplier-customer relationship management that Ferranti Technologies has always sought to achieve. Although a typical product can require thousands of components from dif-

www.ferranti-technologies.co.uk Telephone: 0161 6240281

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

33

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 34

ELECTRONICS FERRANTI

“the company continuously seeks to achieve the highest levels of quality” ferent suppliers, it works closely with them, providing engineering support when needed.

Alongside the SC21 programme, the company continuously seeks to achieve the highest levels of quality and this is demonstrated by being fully accredited to the majority if not all of the key industry accreditations. These accreditations not only indicate a competence with third party approval but, for Ferranti Technologies, they’re crucial since without them it cannot operate in this quality driven industry.

2014 has seen the acquisition of several new accreditations, as Rob explains: “There are three tags — CAA for Europe, FAA for North America and we’ve just achieved CAAC for China. This gives us the ability to repair and release civil aviation equipment in all three geographies. Furthermore, our design team has also recently acquired DAOS, Design Approved 34

Organization Scheme for military and aerospace products, so we can design products directly for the MoD and countries that recognise the standard. Previously, our design work had been approved by a third party. This also helps our marketing and enables a more direct approach on some products.”

Added to those were the acquisition of SABRE for manufacturing and design of Rolls Royce products, SCAP for Airbus Helicopters and the successful renewal of various accreditations that enable Ferranti Technologies to undertake a wide range of work.

Ferranti has chosen to maintain some vertical integration within its overall service capability. This enables it to respond faster to customer needs whilst continuing to develop and build very complex systems, without being over-reliant on sub-contractors and con-

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

strained by their lead times.

“We have a machine shop that is retained to support the manufacture of high precision parts for our legacy products and also comes in useful for rapid manufacture of jigs, fixtures and prototypes in support of our manufacturing operation,” states Rob. “We cover full product design and engineering services, including design for manufacturing and for test.

“We have an advanced SMT build capability with the latest technology. However, we also maintain old technologies so that we can manage through life support and obsolescence issues better than most other companies.

Furthermore, we are probably one of only a few electronics manufacturing organisations in the UK with a full UKAS accredited environmental test facility.”

Technology aside, the company is heavily dependent on its highly skilled workforce and places strong emphasis on employee engagement to ensure that everyone is customerfocused, proactive, innovative and team-oriented. Rob says: “People here enjoy their work and they’re proud of the company’s achievements. This drives them to care about what they do and it is this that engenders the trust of our customers.”

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 35

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 36

ferranti.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:30 Page 37

ELECTRONICS FERRANTI Employee training is crucial to ensuring progress in an ever-changing world.

Consequently, Ferranti Technologies employs a qualified IPC trainer for assembly operations and standards of manufacture, runs a Business Improvement Training initiative for employees, an apprenticeship scheme and other targeted training to meet the needs of the business.

As part of a wider group, Ferranti Technologies benefits from a wide portfolio of ever-developing and growing products and the experience this brings facilitates a wide range of customer requirements. Ferranti’s own research and development is focused within delivering custom power and control solutions to commercial and military challenges.

Rob states: “We are also able to undertake classified R&D projects. The company is currently working on technology to help solve complex issues such as safe military helicopter operations in brownout conditions. We can call on the support of our parent and sister companies to facilitate a wide range of customer requirements from particular technologies to achieving offset obligations in specific countries.”

Ferranti Technologies is constantly looking ahead, which includes upgrading its design

engineering and product lifecycle tools, facilitating more collaborative working, ensuring efficient product configuration control and taking advantage of new technology available.

It has a healthy, growing order book for new design work, contract manufacture and through life support services. As Rob confirms, this growth is carefully controlled: “We want to add more customers and continue to support our existing customers and partners while maintaining the excellent service levels that our customers have come to expect from us. Today we have Ferranti products on many aircraft platforms but our aspiration is to have content on all new platforms, military and civil.”

Due to an influx of new design projects, there is currently a recruitment drive underway, particularly in engineering (Systems Engineer, Safety Engineer, Electronics Hardware Engineers, Test Engineers, Mechanical Engineer and Project Managers). These vacancies, Rob believes, will be attractive to anyone looking for excellent opportunities: “There’s a pedigree and heritage here with many long-serving people.

We have a highly skilled engineering team backed up by a strong management team who are passionate about their work.”

We want to add more customers and continue to support our existing customers and partners while maintaining the excellent service levels that our customers have come to expect MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

37

coda.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 11:19 Page 38

ELECTRONICS CODA OCTOPUS MARTECH

38

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

coda.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 11:19 Page 39

4

The flexibility of Coda Octopus Martech’s offering is a strength but, as Managing Director Paul Baxter confirms, can also present problems: “Our strengths are being able to do everything from first contact through design to production. One difficulty we face is that flexibility and breadth of capability mean our focus isn’t always clear to others. Our specialism is solving technical engineering problems to a very high standard, which has led us down a very diverse path.”

Coda Octopus Martech started 25 years ago working almost exclusively for the Defence Research Agency. It now still works predomi-

ELECTRONICS CODA OCTOPUS MARTECH nantly as an engineering house in the defence industry but also for similarly demanding industries such as nuclear and medical. “We design and develop technology for others,” remarks Paul. “It’s high end engineering so our customers often have challenging problems.”

The nature of the work means everything is bespoke, customers often coming with ideas that sometimes they have patented and occasionally develop into longer term products.

Examples are a chemical decontamination oven that is developing into a product for defence customers and a domestic fire sprinkler test package. “The customer didn’t have the means to develop it but encouraged us to look at it,”

recalls Paul. “We did it over a lengthy period and they wanted to buy a large number but owned the intellectual property rights. There are examples where we are developing our own IPR but most of what we do is highly bespoke.”

The company has also developed for group company Coda Octopus Marine Products a pan and tilt unit that was required to swivel in two dimensions to position its sonar precisely, had to be very robust, lightweight and able to operate at depths of 3,000 metres. An innovative solution for deploying cargo nets under helicopters also had to be very robust, able to withstand radar radiation and a foolproof design.

Requirements can vary from a basic idea to

TRULY BESPOKE

Creating systems for the harshest of environments and deepest oceans.

www.martechsystems.co.uk Telephone: 01305 770440

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

39

coda.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 11:19 Page 40

ELECTRONICS CODA OCTOPUS MARTECH a detailed specification and Martech works at all levels. Common amongst products are their specialised nature and the need to work closely with customers to understand their requirements and develop something that meets them. The process, as Paul outlines, is invariably demanding: “Often a customer comes to us with an idea of how something’s going to be done but not necessarily a concrete solution.

We try to innovate and part of the challenge is we’re trying to invent as we go along without quite knowing what the solution is. The customer still wants a price up-front so we’re trying to provide that for something that’s not been invented.”

Customers include blue chip defence and medical companies although, in the context of the work, some may only come back every few years while others have repeat business on a more regular basis. Many concentrate on their core business and use Martech to develop bespoke test equipment or specialised components outside their normal activities. A common need is work for obsolete or legacy products that are still important for their customers but not part of current business, which requires reverse or re-engineering and an understanding of needs.

“We do some fantastic work but there’s often no other opportunity for it, either because it’s so specialised for that customer or the IPR is protected,” states Paul. “We’re learning new skills but there’s generally no continu-

Our strengths are being able to do everything from first contact through design to production. ous market for the products we’ve invented.

Sometimes they are produced in hundreds or even the low thousands over a period.”

High volume production isn’t something Martech undertakes, generally focusing on design, production of prototypes, final assembly and quality control. Most manufacturing is sub-contracted to specialist companies while embedded firmware coding is handled in-house and other software development is undertaken by a team at Coda Octopus Marine Products in Edinburgh or at Coda Octopus Calmech in Salt Lake City. The work requires the recruitment of highly qualified people and the company has recently taken on an apprentice to develop required skills further.

There was some contraction during the recent downturn as companies retained non40

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

core work in-house and there are on-going changes to the customer base as firms are acquired and operations moved elsewhere. But the situation has improved steadily since 2010 and the customer base is starting to grow although, as Paul points out, the nature of the business means it’s not straightforward: “The gestation period for these projects can be very long so we can start talking to somebody with a real need but it sometimes takes months or even years to see these projects through.

We’re trying to add some non-defence customers, those with similar high expectations to defence customers. We’re also trying to target subsea companies, since the technology links nicely into our sister company offering, and to consciously identify technology we can add to our portfolio.”

coda.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 11:19 Page 41

ELECTRONICS CODA OCTOPUS MARTECH

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

41

analox.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 08:16 Page 42

ELECTRONICS ANALOX

GREAT YEAR FOR ANALOX

Sensor technology expert Analox marks a successful 2014 with the biggest deal of its history

4

For gas technology specialists Analox, 2014 was a significant year.

That’s because the company celebrated the single biggest deal in its history when it signed a contract with global giant The Linde Group, the largest gas supplier in the world.

The company’s Sensor Technology (AST) division has cemented its reputation as a world leader in the manufacture of gas sensors, detectors and alarms, monitoring a range of gases including carbon dioxide, oxygen, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.

The Linde Group is split into three specialist

42

divisions; speciality gas, medical and beverage.

AST has previously worked with BOC, one of Linde's divisions, however, the latest deal will see the company move towards working with the entire Linde group.

This is the biggest single deal for Analox Sensor Technology in the company's history.

Simon Lunt, Analox's Director of Marketing and Sales states: "It is a fantastic opportunity to be working with the world's largest supplier of gas, this opportunity has opened up new foreign regions not yet explored by Analox. The team at Analox are thoroughly excited about the deal and look forward to the future.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

The deal will see three AST products being used by The Linde Group. The first is the O2NE+, an oxygen depletion monitor ideal for use where there is threat of a potential leak or build-up of an inert gas. The O2NE+ provides two audio-visual alarms to warn personnel of a potentially dangerous depletion of oxygen in the workplace. The O2NE+ will be used within labs alongside the Safe-Ox+, an oxygen enrichment and depletion monitor ideal for use where there is either a threat of a potential leak or build-up of enriched oxygen. The third product is Analox Sensor Technology's Ax 50 Carbon Dioxide alarm for use in the beverage industry.

analox.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 08:16 Page 43

ELECTRONICS ANALOX

The deal highlights the continued growth of Analox Sensor Technology which is now firmly placed as one of the global industry specialists.

From its off-the-shelf systems to bespoke designs for companies across the globe, AST has proved time and time again that it is an expert in providing gas detection solutions.

With over 325 years of collective, specialist mechanical, electronics and software engineering expertise AST is not your average gas detection company. The company thrives on providing gas detection solutions in the most hostile environments and solving difficult problems to help customers achieve their goals More recently, Analox brought its experience and capability together to develop Analox Military Systems (AMS), a division launched in 2011 to specifically serve the needs of clients in the military market. The sole purpose of AMS is to maximise the operational effectiveness of its customers across the full range of military theatres: land, sea and air.

Its position as a global leader in the design and manufacture of gas sensors and analysers has positioned AMS as an esteemed authority in monitoring atmospheric conditions. What further solidifies its status is the range of areas in which it has applied its knowledge; spanning diving, fire fighting, aircraft and land vehicles.

AMS is wholly committed to pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in hostile, safety critical environments. Not only does it develop cutting edge gas monitoring equipment as standard, but it can also provide bespoke solutions to meet specific needs.

www.analox.net Tel: 01642 711400

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

43

beaverfit.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 10:16 Page 44

MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING BEAVERFIT

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS An experience of welding and a passion for fitness - It’s the recipe for BeaverFit

44

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

beaverfit.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 10:16 Page 45

4

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING BEAVERFIT

BeaverFit, founded in 2010, is a company providing Functional Fitness Equipment for prolific clients based both in the UK and internationally. Established in the West-Midlands, BeaverFit is a family business that has remained in the same facility since the 1940s, building an enviable reputation thanks to more than 50 years in the steelwork fabrication sector. The father company, R.S.Beaver Ltd, has provided agricultural equipment, piping, and grids for years, developing long-lasting relationships with clients as a result of its expertise.

In 2010, using his experience in welding combined with a passion for fitness, Tom Beaver created BeaverFit following the creation of the company's first Functional Training Rig (FTR).

From there, the British Armed Forces took notice and became drawn to the innovations that BeaverFit supplied. Over time its relation-

ship has grown and it's estimated that there is now a BeaverFit FTR in almost every Armed Forces unit in the country – and the chances are that at some point, every soldier in the British Armed Forces has trained on a BeaverFit rig. All bespoke FTRs are designed and manufactured within the UK, and are supplied not only to the army but to sports clubs, health clubs, and educational establishments too.

“In the last six months, the brand has really become international with the launch of BeaverFit Middle East and BeaverFit USA. We have a full range of new functional fitness products, and we aim to bring out new products which encapsulate the international field,” explains BeaverFit Head of Marketing, Sam Ansloos. “Last year, the biggest project that BeaverFit was involved in was the High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Programme in the US Marine Corps – to which we supplied an impressive 200 F.O.B Lockers.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

45

beaverfit.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 10:16 Page 46

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING BEAVERFIT Current innovations for BeaverFit include the Forward Operating Base (F.O.B) Locker, specifically designed for the front line as a functional training product. The F.O.B is fully portable, and the quick set up makes it excellent for transport around the world. This is precisely what the company is doing – it has set up custom installations throughout the world, for example at the Reebok sports club, one of the biggest gyms in the UK and Europe. BeaverFit also supplied its biggest ever functional training rig to the Army School of Physical Training in Aldershot. Further afield, BeaverFit has installed a rig in the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, which is billed as one of the most famous hotels in the Middle East. Other global ventures include projects in Australia, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

“BeaverFit has recently opened a sistercompany titled BeaverSOE (Special Operations Equipment). The main focus of the BeaverSOE is operational and tactical training – designed to incorporate an intellectual field within the design,” Sam continues, discussing the company's latest ventures. Its reach is still expanding – the company has partnered with distribution companies in both Poland and Germany, along with other major European companies, to bring together exciting projects lined up for future release.

All of the company's success would not be the same, however, without a very safety-conscious production ethic. “BeaverFit's Head of Production works really hard with regards to safety – at the end of the day we are building a product that has to be fully checked and fully functional in order to give our clients someone they can trust. All employees are British coded

46

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

beaverfit.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 10:16 Page 47

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING BEAVERFIT welders, and they all comply with manufacturing standards to the highest degree. We have to make sure the brand maintains its reputation of high quality, and uphold the standards we've already set.”

The standard is due, in part, to the long history of the company and the experience of the steel workers over those years, but also due to the honest, no-nonsense policies of the business.

“Personally, I think honesty within the company is of major importance. When a client buys our product, it's a more genuine, valued purchase when it comes from a company that is honest and upholds modern day moral standards. For us, we are honest in what we portray – it's an ethical business. You can purchase our products in the knowledge that they are original in design and have a full warranty. It's very important to fulfil that ethical part of the business.”

When asked about Beaverfit's partnership with ADS, Sam replied, “ADS creates a network

of people within similar industries – it links us with other people that have similar products and values, but perhaps in different fields. I think it's a really great body to be involved with for that reason.”

For BeaverFit, one of the major aspects and influencers of the business is steel and steel work – all of the steel used to manufacture BeaverFit products comes from within England and Great Britain. “It's so important that we build a good relationship with the suppliers of our materials. We offer galvanisation as an 'add-on' for clients that wish to use our products outside, and it's so crucial that we build good contacts with that. Most of our suppliers are based in Shropshire – it's great to have them close by, in order to build that relationship. Having said that, we greatly look forward to expanding our relationships with companies and suppliers even more in the future, to provide even better products for our clients.”

www.beaverfit.com Tel: 01694 751265

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

47

reveal_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:57 Page 48

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING REVEAL

FRONT-LINE TECHNOLOGY For more than 10 years, Reveal has designed and built world-leading body worn video systems – always in close partnership with the frontline workers who use them.

4

Reveal makes smart, efficient and secure body-worn video systems that transform the jobs of frontline workers in operations that often include times of heightened danger.

The company’s products and guidance provide reassurance, confidence and support for those people, enhancing operational effectiveness as well as safety and accountability.

For more than ten years Reveal has designed and built world-leading body worn video systems. It has done so in close partnership with the frontline workers who use them in order to develop products specifically tailored to the needs of their job.

Today, Reveal is the market leader in the UK, which is leading the world in adopting bodyworn video. Its systems are used by the majority of UK police forces, and are a feature in the country’s prisons, local government and private security. However, Reveal’s expertise has seen it strengthen its global profile. The company currently supplies and supports cameras and software to clients in 29 countries with international activities continuing to grow rapidly.

48

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

Most recently, Reveal launched the RS2-X2 body camera. Inspector Steve Goodier, bodyworn video lead at Hampshire Constabulary, described it as “their best yet - streets ahead of any other.”

The RS2-X2 is a rugged, compact camera, with Reveal’s trademark front-facing screen, articulated head and one-touch recording. But it also features full HD wide-field recording, industry-leading encryption, on-board playback and new time-saving dock and go functionality all in a remarkably lightweight package.

Alasdair Field, Reveal CEO, says, “Body cameras are evolving – and the way our customers use them is changing too. We’ve put all of our experience and technical know-how into this

reveal_feature 2 13/01/2015 16:58 Page 49

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING REVEAL

“There are always improvements to be made, and technology marches on. We’re determined to stay at the head of that march.” new model, along with a lot of input from the people on the frontline who will actually use it. I believe it’s a major step forward.”

The new camera comes at the same time as a significant upgrade to Reveal’s digital evidence management system, DEMS, which is supplied with Reveal cameras.

“We’ve introduced a range of new features,” says Field, “from improved reporting, to easy automation of data retention policies. And again, many changes were a direct result of customer involvement. Together, we keep DEMS ahead of the cutting edge of evidence management.”

Reveal recently showcased the new camera in the ADS innovation hub at the Transport Security exhibition in London. The company was invited by ADS, which it has been a member of for a number of years, to highlight its latest product. ADS has played an important role in helping Reveal grow its profile in the UK. “There’s more to come!” says Field, “One thing we will not do is rest on our laurels. There are always improvements to be made, and technology marches on. We’re determined to stay at the head of that march.”

For more information: revealmedia.com Tel: 0203 070 2723

FINDING IT HARD TO GET YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS? ADVERTISE IN MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

CALL 01484 437300

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

49

high tech.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 12:53 Page 50

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING HIGH TECH ENGINEERING

4

Precision engineering company High-Tech Engineering will celebrate being in business for 30 years in 2015. The company operates from a purpose built facility in Bedfordshire producing high quality precision components for a variety of industries.

The company was originally formed to service the motorsport industry and gained an enviable reputation for Quality and Delivery performance in this demanding industry. In order to expand and generate additional business a decision was made in early 2000 to move into aerospace and other sectors.

Approvals to many primes such as RollsRoyce, GKN, Ultra, and BAE have been achieved aligned with Quality approval to AS9100 REV C.

The company has also been recognised for its bespoke training Academy which has been endorsed by SEMTA and approved to deliver a Level 3 Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship.

This ongoing training is generating a throughput of skilled engineers required for growth.

High-Tech has plenty of opportunity for further expansion on site and is looking to grow substantially within the next five years.

Managing Director Steve Tickner said, “We had identified there was an alarming shortage of skilled machinists within our industry which if not addressed could have a real impact on growth and performance. The Academy was set up to compensate for this shortage and I am happy to say it has been extremely successful with all new employees being local. Over 70% of our current staff have come through the

30 YEAR SUCCESS An enviable reputation has ensured Bedfordshire-based High-Tech remains first choice

50

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

training programme.”

To complement component manufacture the company is now also offering finishing treatments and has recently been approved by NADCAP for Dry Film Lube.

High-Tech has always had a commitment to improvement activities and in 2006 the company became actively involved with SC21 with an initial goal of developing a continuous sustainable improvement plan. The strategy was to have a company and business model that would attract Aerospace Primes and larger organisations in an attempt to secure scheduled work and long-term opportunities.

“SC21 was a perfect fit for us as it gave us a real insight into how Aerospace Primes expected suppliers to operate with an added bonus that if you did it well and achieved an award it could be a

high tech.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 12:53 Page 51

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING HIGH TECH ENGINEERING

fantastic marketing opportunity in an industry we wanted to target,” explains Steve.

This commitment has seen the company achieve unrivalled success to date with a Bronze Award followed by five consecutive Silver awards with everything in place for a 6th this year.

By adopting simple methods and procedures and enhancing these with the capture of all relevant data from an MRP system the company now has a sustainable business model that ensures customer commitment is supplied on time in full. Several other improvement activities have been completed in order for High-Tech to work towards an ultimate goal of being recognised as world class.

High-Tech has just won orders from RollsRoyce for complex titanium XWB parts due to a significant cost down proposal which involves the use of new technology. A cell has been built and manufacture will commence in February. Moving forward working closely with Rolls-Royce engineers the intention is to identify further cost saving opportunities.

“The initial interest three years ago from Rolls-Royce was down to our SC21 delivery and performance level which is evidence to what can be achieved by actively engaging on the programme.

“Although we have personally seen benefit from SC21 I still feel a lot of Primes and larger organisations are failing to take advantage of what is on offer overall. The programme was set up to improve performance levels throughout the industry and hundreds of suppliers have responded with many achieving award status. This has generated a unique high level supply chain within the SC21 community which has the potential to improve and add benefit to any procurement team activity, yet there still seems to be a general reluctance by most organisations to try out a new supplier.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

51

edm.qxp_feature 2 18/01/2015 08:42 Page 52

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

EDM UK CELEBRATING GROWTH

4

“Our strategy from day one has been to create what we believe to be the UK’s first branch network of EDM sub-contractors,” states Managing Director Tony Sitek. With that strategy in mind, the EDM UK Group started in 2011 by opening B-Tek Precision Engineering in Sheffield and moving to Leeds soon after, acquired Excel Precision (WSE) in Gloucester in 2013 and opened a further branch in Milton Keynes the following year.

“The general idea behind the whole concept is that people use their local EDM sub-contractor,” explains Tony. “Our basic principle is to draw a fifty mile radius around where we are and that is each branch’s target area. Ultimately, our goal is to have five or six branches across the UK, covering the vast majority of it.”

Whilst Leeds undertakes some contract milling and Gloucester has grinding capability, all branches are essentially wire and spark erosion contractors. The service, otherwise known as electrical discharge machining (EDM), is a

52

manufacturing process where material is removed to achieve a desired shape using a series of electrical discharges or sparks.

It is, admits Tony, an unusual but essential process: “There are a lot of companies with conventional machines for turning, milling, grinding and honing but EDM, also known as wire and spark erosion, is very niche. Not many companies understand it, know how to do it or have ever had experience or been exposed to this process. They tend to stay away from it and stick to what they know — turning, milling, etc. — and send work out to firms like us that know how to wire and spark erode certain features.

“We are asked to do things that can’t be done using conventional machining techniques like turning and milling. It’s very high precision work and we have made parts to plus or minus two microns, which you just can’t get when trying to mill or turn something.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

It is a concept that can be difficult to sell to those not familiar with it but is vital to EDM’s customers. Around 50% of them are in the oil and gas industry although the company also works with customers in the aerospace, space, medical, defence and nuclear sectors. Many are sub-contractors producing components for their customers, who will buy material, then turn, mill, grind and hone that material before sending it to have certain features wire or spark eroded into it. The work is

edm.qxp_feature 2 18/01/2015 08:42 Page 53

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

53

edm.qxp_feature 2 18/01/2015 08:42 Page 54

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

varied, with Leeds focusing on small quantities of large components for the oil and gas industry while Gloucester tends to undertake more production runs. Contracts have included making parts out of tantalum for the Hadron Collider at CERN near Geneva and components for space satellites that involved 360 operations and 200 hours of work for each piece.

Although the company can undertake something as basic as cutting a piece of metal in half, most jobs require precise and complex operations to very high tolerances.

Often these are on very valuable base materials or on parts that have already undergone many hours of processing, so mistakes resulting in scrap are not an option. They’re avoided by pre-production meetings with customers to understand what needs to be done, using up-to-date machines with the latest technology and having skilled and experienced staff who can program and operate the machines.

But the outcome, insists Tony, is something that can often only be achieved using EDM techniques: “There are certain things that only spark eroding will do as far as I’m concerned. In the old days, you would broach something but, latterly, you will spark erode it because it’s a better finish and it’s higher accuracy. When you’re turning or milling something, you have a cutting tool that’s maybe hitting the metal 6,000 times a minute and that puts a lot of heat and stress into the material. For wiring and sparking, however, at no point is there anything touching the metal and so there’s no heat or stress for the material.

“These machines have a massive generator that sparks 16,000 times a minute and that sparking erodes the metal away as opposed to cutting it. That’s one of the big differences. It can be a very slow process but it’s incredi-

54

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

bly accurate. When you have a piece of metal and you want it to stay the same mechanical properties after machining as it had before, then wire and sparking is the way to go. With turning and milling, you get an element of the surface that’s work harmed. You don’t get any of that with wiring and sparking.”

The speed of the process is being improved by advancement in the type of generators used in the latest machines and by software features for programming those machines, both of which have a dramatic effect.

However, increased efficiency has to be achieved without adversely affecting the quality of the cut and finish.

That quality is helped by having talented operatives who can make the required electrodes and are proficient in all aspects of the process, as well as inspection departments at all branches that use CMM and Faro Gage measurement and testing equipment.

They’re part of a range of equipment that includes 32 machines across the three branches, requiring a very capital intensive operation that typically involves an investment of over £100,000 for each machine. The latest ones are reserved for the most complex operations while older versions are used for more basic work. “We believe we are the UK’s largest EDM CNC sub-cont r a c t o r ,”

edm.qxp_feature 2 27/01/2015 14:23 Page 55

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

55

edm.qxp_feature 2 18/01/2015 08:42 Page 56

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

56

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

edm.qxp_feature 2 18/01/2015 08:42 Page 57

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING EDM UK GROUP

comments Sales Manager Alan Allatt. ”There are companies with more machines but some are manual whereas all our machines are CNC and I don’t think anyone has more than three branches. We are a leading player in this area.”

Although the concept of the process can be difficult to get across to potential customers who are unfamiliar with it, for others EDM UK provides a service that isn’t widely available.

The strategy for new customers is to start small and then grow the service to other products through the high quality of the offering and the strong relationships that are developed. That’s worked particularly with one company that has

developed into B-Tek’s second biggest customer in less than a year and is to be followed with the first overseas order to manufacture components for a company in Brazil.

The big challenge currently is the falling oil price that is impacting exploration and the development of new products. However, that’s being countered by a move into new markets and the opening of the Milton Keynes branch that aims to focus on Formula 1 and the motor sport market generally. It has gained product approval from Red Bull and Lotus but no orders as yet, although first orders have been received from Aston Martin and Rolls Royce.

“Leeds branch revenues have grown 50% year on year since we started and our latest branch in Milton Keynes is going along at a reasonable pace,” says Tony. “We have plans to grow the business in 2015 by 25% on what we did last year as a group based on the amount of branches we have now. We are constantly looking at new markets.”

www.edm-uk.co.uk Telephone: 0113 2711622

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

57

cube.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:35 Page 58

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING CUBE PRECISION

58

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

cube.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:35 Page 59

4

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING CUBE PRECISION

Capacity, capability and confidence are the three key principles behind leading press tool manufacturer and machining subcontractor, Cube Precision Engineering. Having worked with notable clients such as BAE Systems on military applications and with Rolls Royce for the innovation of new aero engine systems, the company boasts an incredible wealth of experience in highly technical and time-restrictive works – specifically with regard to military applications where vehicles are urgently required on the front lines and quality solutions are essential when the lives of our soldiers lie in the balance.

Founded on January 5th 2009, Cube Precision Engineering started with as little as six staff and one order for an engine protection system for the rail industry, totalling 60 components . After successfully completing the initial trial, a further order of approximately 90 components totalling £150,000 in value was provided which provided the ideal start for the company to flourish and grow and secure bank funding.. Through further partnership with Liquidity, Lloyd's Bank and Santander (who purchased Liquidity), Cube Precision Engineering got off to a positive start and has enjoyed steady growth ever since.

Cube Precision Engineering's key areas of success include the aerospace, automotive, defence & rail industries through the provision of anything from small mock-up tools to large tooling suites, for which the company has the capacity and experience to project manage and manufacture a wide range of tooling equipment. “The reason we win the work regularly is because our niche is the size of lifting equipment – we can lift up to 35t in weight, we can

machine up to 5m and for our try-out facilities we can press up to 1000t,” explained Neil Clifton, Managing Director of Cube Precision Engineering who stressed that the sheer capabilities of the company are amongst the best in The UK as a result of both investment into technology and the skill of his team. “If you see our setup you can physically drive a tank onto our machines, we can machine it in-situ and drive it out to the waiting transporter..”

In addition, Cube Precision Engineering understands that capacities alone are not the only thing of importance and that in providing a service which can easily work alongside clients' production routines is essential. This means that the company does everything possible to assess tools on-site and undertake as much work as possible without removing key components of a customer's production cycle: “We're not just making new tools, we're taking existing tools, making engineering changes and repairing them so a lot of our customers will want us to go, pick up a tool from them, scan the existing condition of the tool, convert it into CAD data and we'll manipulate that CAD data and machine the changes from that,” explains Neil.

In doing this, Cube Precision Engineering is able to seamlessly work alongside clients and develop their systems without causing any hindrance or distress in the meantime.

To ensure minimum turnaround on works and also minimise the associated carbon emissions, Cube Precision Engineering also looks to source as much of its supplier products locally: “We focus on where we're buying our supplies from. In 2013, 65% of all of our spend was within 40 miles of our location, while 98% was in The UK The only thing that wasn't was some of our castings which we source from northern

PRECISION. CUBED.

Cube Precision Engineering provides leading aerospace, defence and automotive companies with the highest standards in precision tool design, manufacture and sub-contract machining MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

59

cube.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:35 Page 60

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING CUBE PRECISION

“Every job we do is bespoke, it's never been done before” Spain,” explains Neil.

But Cube Precision Engineering is not a company with a singular internal-vision and recognises that all this could only be possible through the support of its suppliers, whom the company works with in a way far more akin to partnerships to develop original engineering solutions within strict time frames. Neil explains further as to the relationship which the company has with its key suppliers: “It's not about raising the purchase order and paying a bill when the work is done. Every job we do is bespoke, it's never been done before and as such, if we didn't have the experience of Tim at TG Design or Matt and Mark at MW Designs then we wouldn't be able to deliver to our customer. They get involved with our customer as well – we have design meetings where we're all around the table together with the customer and designer because it is a process of all working together and sharing the experience because it's never been made before.

60

“Certainly with Nick at Central Scanning, they are quite often on our customers' sites, scanning tools for us because they can't be taken out of production. They don't have a week where they can just say 'Well we can't produce these parts that week' and they travel all around the country for us turning jobs around quickly so we can deliver to the customer. Underpinning our success is a highly skilled, committed and flexible workforce, but also the suppliers as to where we are now six years down the road.”

Due to the consistent success of the company and steady growth over the years, Cube Precision Engineering already has a great foundation to build upon in future years and an incredible capacity for large orders. As a result, the company looks to expand its horizons in a different manner, looking to growth through acquisition as Neil explains: “We've just invested heavily in two new machines... I think this year is really about con-

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

solidating on a successful 2014. We have a strong order book and we are winning repeat orders however, what is key to our growth now is acquisitions. What we're looking for are businesses in a similar sector but different skill sets so maybe a composites business and company producing production parts for the aerospace and defence industries.

“We've got projects at various different stages. On the tooling side we are working on projects for JLR, Nissan and Toyota and at the end of 2014 we a significant project machinings titanium and aluminium for the aerospace sector.

From the investment in these two machines, the company has enjoyed incredible benefits from reduced cycle times to allowing for larger workloads and capacities in terms of the physical size which it can machine. Though the company already has a reputation for its capacity capabilities, these machines are expected to both enforce upon that reputation and set the company up for the coming year in which there will no-doubt be increasing demands for capacity.

www.cubeprecision.com

cube.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:35 Page 61

actisense.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 09:30 Page 62

MARINE ACTISENSE

IT JUST MAKES SENSE

Actisense is dedicated to supplying intelligent sensors and interfaces that are unrivalled for their quality, features and reliability.

4

Since volumes for boat building are considerably less than for cars, the industry tends to lag some way behind in terms of technology.

Actisense, however, is on a mission to change that. “We’re trying to create something a little more innovative than the competition and we’re also pitching at a higher quality level,” proclaims Managing Director Phil Whitehurst.”

The marine market is fairly low volume but we’re trying to get some higher volume quality into it. Some products look a little amateurish so we’re trying to make ours look a lot more designed and give the customers a nicer feeling and a quality product.”

62

Actisense is a brand name, created in 2001

by Active Research for its marine electronics products that interface between various types of equipment. Those products have to conform to one of two standards for boats — for older serial bus systems and the newer CAN bus standard introduced about ten years ago and which is starting to take off for marine equipment as a means of getting data around boats.

The workforce has a high proportion of engineers so there’s a big emphasis on design, with a fair amount of UK contract manufacturing of electronic, mechanical and moulding components. All final assembly, quality control and despatch are handled in-house and prod-

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

ucts go all over the world through a network of distributors. UK sales are handled directly or by a co-distributor that incorporates the equipment into package solutions as part of an outdoor leisure range.

Although volumes are low by mass production standards, the nature of the market, as Phil outlines, is somewhat unique: “Boats last a long time, often thirty years, and you might refit the electronics four or five times. So there is quite a big refit market, as big if not bigger than the building market, and we are quite strong on that because people change equipment and need other interfaces to make things work together.

That’s where we specialise and, if you have some

actisense.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 09:30 Page 63

MARINE ACTISENSE

www.actisense.com Telephone: 01202 746682

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

63

actisense.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 09:31 Page 64

MARINE ACTISENSE

64

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

actisense.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 09:31 Page 65

MARINE ACTISENSE old kit, we can make it work with new kit.”

Since Actisense is providing interfaces between other products, it’s necessary to keep abreast of the latest developments. That’s achieved by paying close attention to the trade press and a regular dialogue with suppliers and customers to obtain advice and guidance. The company is also a member of America’s National Marine Electronics Association and the British Marine Federation, being active on committees and focus groups to influence standards and legislation.

That leads to the development of new products, recent ones resulting from the company’s move into the commercial marine market rather then predominantly concentrating on leisure marine. Those products include fire proofing and fire rated products required by the more demanding standards for commercial boats. “We have to go through a lot more hoops to get equipment on passenger carrying boats,” states Phil. “It’s all to do with the Safety of Life at Sea requirement where, if a boat catches fire, you don’t want toxic fumes or similar. So it’s like commercial building standards and there are higher requirements we don’t need to meet with a small leisure boat.”

It’s a challenge the company is used to meeting, having done so successfully enough to win the BMEA Product of the Year Award three times in the last five years. “We try to get into some of those awards because it’s good to receive recognition and it gives us some extra marketing,” remarks Phil. “It’s nice for people here to see the products they’re designing are winning awards and gives us a good feeling.”

The emphasis on quality products extends to efficiency that includes fuel flow and energy reduction as part of the design philosophy. The aim is also to make all products robust so that customers can depend on their reliability,

resulting in very few items ever being returned.

The outcome is an 18% growth in turnover last year to £1.2 million. The growth has been continued despite the recent difficult years and is, as Phil confirms, expected to continue: “We probably would have grown faster if there hadn’t been economic problems but we have new products people want and we are expanding the product range and getting pretty good growth. We’re doing quite a bit of marketing to try and increase the growth rate further and there’s a lot more activity in promoting the company, just talking to people more.

“Predominantly our direct to customer marketing is in the UK but 85% of our turnover comes from the international market. To achieve this, we have been attending the ‘Marine Equipment Trade Show’ (METS) in Amsterdam and have done since we launched the brand in 2001, so we’ve just done our fourteenth year. But we are branching out to other overseas markets — I go to America every year for the NMEA show, which is always great for feedback and meeting influential people.”

“It’s nice for people here to see the products they’re designing are winning awards and gives us a good feeling.”

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

65

achilies9.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:39 Page 66

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ACHILLES

66

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

achilies9.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:39 Page 67

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ACHILLES

POWER IN

NUMBERS

Achilles creates and manages a global network of collaborative industry communities, allowing trading partners to share high quality, structured, real-time data.

A

chilles plays a vital role in allowing its trading partners to share high quality, structured, real-time data.

Through the creation and management of a global network of collaborative industry communities, Achilles acts as an independent partner, providing validated data and insightful analytics to enable buyers across a variety of sectors identify and manage risk while suppliers can increase market reach and compliance in addition to minimising costs across the network as a whole.

REPRESENTED The success of Achilles over the years is represented by its membership with around 800 of the world’s leading buying organisations and 90,000 key suppliers currently benefiting from the Achilles’ network of over 40 different communities in 11 industry sectors. Consistent development also sees the

services expanding into new markets regularly.

This network of communities is supported by over 950 dedicated employees, providing local support in 29 different languages, based in 23 different countries. Indeed, if the proof is in the pudding, Achilles enduring achievements and valuable customer support can be seen in its work with some of the world’s best-known companies. These include Shell, Balfour Beatty, Toyota Motor Europe, E.ON, EDF, Vale, ABB, Santos, Petrobas, Chevron, Maersk, Skanska, Statoil, Vattenfall, Repsol YPF, Alstom, Iberdrola, Acciona, Abertis, National Grid, BHP Billiton, Yamana Gold, Halliburton, Anglo American, Aston Martin, Jaguar Landrover Petrobras and Exxon Mobil.

Achilles works through the “power of a network of communities.” This structure allows buyers with access to a broader range of verified, compliant suppliers while suppliers themselves gain access to a broader range of potential buyers.

The required verification and

data gathering processes are standardised within the community and are facilitated by Achilles’ local support teams based around the world.

The result is a significant reduction in the work required by both suppliers and buyers to manage and reduce risk within their community and a substantially lower cost of compliance for the community as a whole.

Achilles’ communities range in scope from large individual enterprises seeking to improve compliance and risk management across their multi-national base of subsidiaries to broad, industry-wide communities of over 100 major buyers and 10,000 suppliers.

SHARING BEST PRACTICE The global network produces additional benefits by sharing best practice in compliance and risk management between industry sectors and across geographies and allows buyers and suppliers to open up trading opportunities in new markets.

Services are comprehensive and tailored. Achilles provides its

communities with a SaaS-based buyer and supplier compliance, risk and performance management platform alongside expertise in the specific industry sector and in procurement compliance and risk management issues in general.

Support is also given to assist suppliers in compiling the relevant information and achieving compliance. In addition, resources to continuously update, verify and, if required, audit the information are available.

FIRST BEGAN The business first began in 1990 when it was founded in Norway with the goal of helping organisations identify, assess, qualify, and monitor suppliers throughout the supply chain.

Achilles’ first success came with the launch of a supplier pre-qualification service for Norway's oil and gas industry.

The principal driver was to reduce operating costs. It was established “by the industry for the industry” against a background of low oil prices.

The concept was that ifyou can

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

4

67

achilies9.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:39 Page 68

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ACHILLES collect and provide information once only and share it with all, it avoids the significant duplication of effort and the associated resource time consumed in doing that.

From this simple business model, which is applicable to any industry or geography, Achilles has rapidly expanded into 23 countries across all continents.

Indeed, the company now operates in multiple industries and sectors, from automotive to utilities with a group turnover of around £70m.

GREATER VISIBILITY As supply chains become more globalised, buyers and suppliers need greater visibility of supply chain risks. The Achilles solution today is not just about reducing operating cost. It therefore offers a broad range of procurement risk management tools and services including on-site supplier audits, carbon footprint data, sustainability and CSR information, multi-tier supply chain mapping and procurement legislation advice.

Recent achievements include the cementing of its reputation as the world’s leading provider of supplier pre-qualification, audit and compliance services for the utilities industry, with the renewal of the contract to independently manage these functions for all the main companies in the UK. Achilles has operated the Utilities supplier pre-qualification system UVDB in the UK for the last 20 years, working on behalf of

68

“Working together, Achilles and the utilities industry have seen significant increases in business critical areas” the principal Utilities buying organisations to independently risk-assess more than 10,000 suppliers, carry out comprehensive audits and help businesses comply with EU regulations. UVDB is now the biggest buyer and supplier community in Europe.

After a full market review comprising representatives from

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

over 40 companies including EDF Energy, Northern Powergrid, Scottish Power, SSE, Wales and West Utilities, Western Power Distribution and UK Power Networks, agreed that Achilles’ solution performed best in terms of effectiveness, global reach and value for money. Achilles will now continue to run the service for a further minimum period of five years.

Adrian Chamberlain, Chief Executive of Achilles, said: “It is a real honour that after a full market appraisal, the UK’s biggest utilities companies have extended their 20-year working relationship with Achilles.

“Working together, Achilles and the utilities industry have seen significant increases in business critical areas, such as health and safety, compliance, corporate social responsibility and we are proud this has been recognised.

“However, we are by no means complacent and part of the

continuous improvement of the service, we have pledged a series of additional innovations to further enhance user experience for buyers and suppliers. We look forward to working with the community to implement these improvements over the coming months.”

In total, Achilles now manages 19 pre-qualification communities for the utilities industry across the world, working on behalf of 189 buying organisations to manage the pre-qualification activities of more than 39,000 suppliers.

MANAGED SERVICE Across all the communities, Achilles provides a managed service including a technology platform to collect information from suppliers, validate the data, and publish information to buying organisations in a way that is compliant with procurement rules in each country. Users can also access additional services such as on-site safety, health and environmental audits, advisory services and site-specific information and an advertising platform for “call for competition” notices, and award announcements.

For more information: www.achilles.com

arc.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:43 Page 69

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ARC ENERGY RESOURCES

WELDING ENGINEERING SPECIALISTS Arc specialises in the supply of corrosion resistant weld overlay cladding and the manufacture of specialist fabrications

4

Arc Energy Resources supplies the oil and gas, nuclear, renewable, water and wastewater, and naval industries with corrosion resistant weld overlay cladding and the manufacture of specialist fabrications. Established in 1994 by International and European Welding Engineer, Alan Robinson, the company’s first year of trading saw it operate with just four staff and return sales figures totalling a little over £1,000. Today, Arc Energy has expanded into a multi-million pound business with 70 staff, regularly trading with some of the largest companies in the world.

Driven by a dedication to customer service and high standards, quality remains the bedrock of success for Arc Energy. Indeed, in 1995, just a year after inception, Arc Energy signalled its intent by achieving ISO 9002. With this accreditation on board, Arc Energy’s rapid growth began. Sales topped half a million pounds in 1996, doubling to over £1m in 1997.

4

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

69

arc.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:44 Page 70

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ARC ENERGY RESOURCES

By 1999, Arc Energy had out-grown its premises, and moved into a new 15,000 sq ft factory in Eastington, Gloucestershire. With new premises, the company continued its progress of growth, and in 2002, true to company philosophy, achieved ISO 9001 and ISO 3834-2 certification.

2004 saw sales in excess of £2m for the first time. It was also the first year that Arc Energy became a corporate sponsor of Gloucester Rugby Football Club. In recognition of the company’s dedication to quality through people, the prestigious Investors in People award was bestowed for the first time.

With continuous growth, Arc Energy expanded again in 2005, taking on two extra

company directors, increasing the board to four. As well as this, it also increased workspace by taking on two extra units. In 2007, Arc Energy was certified as an ASME U & National Board R Stamp holder, becoming the first weld overlay specialist in Western Europe to hold the certification.

By the end of 2008, sales had risen to £5m with the business employing 65 staff and further expanding its base of operations. The environmental standard ISO 14001 was achieved in 2010, and the Investors in People accreditation was renewed with another glowing report. In early 2012, accreditation for OHSAS 18001 was also gained.

INVESTORS IN PEOPLE 2013 saw Arc Energy Resources achieve the Investors in People Bronze award, an outstanding achievement for an SME. Arc Energy also became one of only seven companies in the UK able to offer ASME U2 services, through accreditation by ASME. This year, Arc Energy celebrates 20 years in business. With significant recent investments in machinery, premises and people, the company has every reason to look positively to the future, continuing its philosophy of supplying quality assured goods, whilst providing unsurpassed technical support.

For more information: Tel: 01453 823 523 www.arcenergy.co.uk 70

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

arc.qxp_feature 2 19/01/2015 10:44 Page 71

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ARC ENERGY RESOURCES

REACH THE PEOPLE

WHO MATTER

ADVERTISE IN

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

CALL 01484 437300 MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

71

the last word.qxp_feature 2 17/01/2015 12:35 Page 72

THE LAST WORD...

INSTANT MEMORIES

Captured and Printed in 60 seconds

I

n a world of Instagram and social media, taking photographs has never before played such an important role in our everyday lives. With a smart phone you can take a picture and have it published for the world to see in a matter of seconds. But, before the digital revolution changed the face of photography, images had to be recorded on film. Instead of code telling a computer how to display an image, film captured light and recorded it through a complicated chemical process.

This made it practically impossible for instantaneous results. In fact, most of us remember delicately taking used film out of our cameras, dropping the canister off at the nearest Kodak printing shop and waiting a few days before our 24 photos were ready to collect. Nowadays, we don’t see such shops on

72

the high street because there’s simply no need for them. Yet, one invention, that is now more than 60 years old, gave its users instant results.

We’ve got Edwin Herbert Land to thank for that. He invented the Polaroid instant camera which first went on sale in 1948. Land established the Land-Wheelwright Laboratories together with his Harvard physics instructor, George Wheelwright, to commercialise his polarising technology in 1932. After a few early successes developing polarising filters for sunglasses and photographic filters, Land obtained funding from a series of Wall Street investors for further expansion. This saw the company change its name to the Polaroid Corporation in 1937.

Land’s instant camera derived from various work he did in the next few years including extensive research during World War II for

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

military tasks such as developing darkadaptation goggles, target finders, the first passively guided smart bombs, and a special stereoscopic viewing system called the Vectograph which revealed camouflaged enemy positions in aerial photography This led to his first demonstration of an instant camera in 1947 along with its associated film. When it first went on sale at Christmas in 1948, every single unit produced sold out in a single day.

Elkan Blout, a close colleague of Edwin Land at Polaroid, wrote: "What was Land like?

Knowing him was a unique experience. He was a true visionary; he saw things differently from other people, which is what led him to the idea of instant photography. He was a brilliant, driven man who did not spare himself and who enjoyed working with equally driven people.”

IBC_Layout 1 17/11/2014 08:45 Page 1

A3 Cover2_Layout 1 18/01/2015 09:49 Page 1

ISSUE 413

M

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

M M MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

AIRBUS

A PIONEERING SPIRIT

Technological leadership and manufacturing efficiency have set the standard for the aviation industry

ISSUE 413

FERRANTI Still here, and better than ever

SC21

ALSO INSIDE...

4EDM UK Group 4Cube Precision 4BeaverFit

Change for the better...

P32

P12

...Plus much more