JULY / AUGUST 2022
lathamdigitalshowroom.co.uk
SCM windorflex is the new automatic machining cell for windows and doors manufacturing, created to meet current and future most challenging design and sustainability requirements. It is an innovative and technological solution, widely configurable and fully automated for processing complete window frames, always guaranteeing the best accuracy, high flexibility and superior finish quality. The exclusive Maestro active windoor software, specifically developed for the control and the programming of windorflex, is capable of managing any demands related to windows and doors production thanks also to Maestro connect, the SCM IoT system. DISCOVER MORE
SCM UK Tel. +44 (0)115 9770044 scmuk@scmgroup.com www.scmwood.com
CONTENTS EDITORS PICK
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News
PUBLISHED BY:
EC Media 76 Victoria Avenue Westgate on Sea Kent CT8 8BH
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William Hughes Is Welded To Success
EMAIL:
ecmedia@btconnect.com
Putting The Big In Striebig
WEBSITE:
www.p-j-production.com
Mawera UK
PUBLISHER:
Clare Hollister
DESIGNER:
Russel Goldsmith TRACE Creative Agency www.tracecreative.co.uk
PRINTER:
The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk
Kickstart Inspiration With Lathams’ Décors Campaign Blum Celebrates 70 Years Alongside Our Queen And Country SCM Presents Windorflex Introducing The Combi-FSE – The New Electric Sideloader From Combilift Dams Furniture Boosts Efficiency With HOMAG’s SAWTEQ B-400
The Changing Face Of Dust Extraction And Industrial Wood-Fired Equipment Extractly - Half Price Dust Extraction Timber Merchant Shaves Money Off Its Business Bills The Hidden Value Of Professional Product Support Biesse - Cutting-Edge Trimming Technology Boosts Productivity And Quality HOMAG Redefines CNC Processing With The New DRILLTEQ V-310 ‘It Does Exactly What It Says On The Box’
Reproduction of articles: All material appearing in Panel & Joinery Production is strictly copyright, and all rights are reserved. No part of the publication may be copied or transmitted in any form whatsoever, including photocopying without prior permission of the publishers.
Masterwood GB Open House Review Paul Wood Machines UK Ltd HPC Laser – Technology At Its Best ATA Engineering Mirka - Close To The Edge HOMAG And Makor Group Alliance Delivers Premium Finishing Solutions
Publishers note: The editorial opinions expressed in Panel & Joinery Production are not necessarily those of the publishers, who shall be under no liablity with respect to any article published herein.
JMS 3D Pro Enabling JCK Joinery/Unity Group To Grow
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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HOFFMANN-SCHWALBE.DE
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WHEN PRECISION IS KEY
THE ANSWER´S AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
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tel. 01524 841 500
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www.hoffmann-schwalbe.de tel. 0049 7251 95440
NEWS SICAM IS BACK FOR 2022 Pordenone will host the 13th edition of SICAM between 18th-21st October, promising a packed schedule full of inspiration for an international furniture industry that is increasingly lively and in constant search of innovation, stimuli and relationships. The exhibition complex’s 10 halls will all be occupied, and this year the exhibition space will be expanded thanks to an extension of Hall 8, which will make it possible to respond to a significant increase in demand for participation once again this year.
“We are looking forward to a truly significant trade fair,” comments Carlo Giobbi, organiser of SICAM, “and this is also reflected in the fact that today, with still four months to go, we have a large waiting list of companies interested in exhibiting.
“We have already confirmed the participation of the major players in every product sector, and this year we are also witnessing the return of major multinationals to the exhibition. I believe that the solid participation of all these companies at SICAM 2022 is the best response that the components and accessories sector could give after the challenges and uncertainties of the last two years”. www.exposicam.it/en/
Automatic crosscut saws
Daltons Wadkin offer a comprehensive range of automatic programmable crosscutting systems for straight and angle work complete with powerful optimisation and defecting software as standard.
production costs reduced by up to
5-15%
50% less wood used
Visit our Nottingham showroom for a demonstration
Sole UK & Ireland Distributors tel: +44 (0)115 986 5201 www.daltonswadkin.com www.daltonswadkin.com
Sole UK & Ireland Distributors tel: +44 (0)115 986 5201
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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TM MACHINERY WOODWORKING MACHINERY EXPERTS SINCE 1983
Swiss PRECISION cutting technology POWER PRECISION EFFICIENCY RELIABILITY
TM Machinery have been supplying and maintaining quality woodworking machinery for over 35 years.
SETTING THE STANDARD FOR VERTICAL PANEL SAWS
CONTACT 0116 271 7155 sales@tmservices.co.uk www.tmmachinery.co.uk @tm_machinery
NEWS IDS ANNOUNCES ITS ACQUISITION BY PRIVATE EQUITY INVESTOR CHILTERN CAPITAL Surface materials specialist distributor IDS has announced that it has been acquired by private equity investor Chiltern Capital. IDS has been owned by Saint Gobain Building Distribution for 23 years during which time it has grown to be the UK’s largest distributor of decorative surfaces, doubled its turnover and reported revenues in excess of £120 million in 2021. IDS supplies over 12,000 product lines specialising in flooring, worktops, laminates, compact, panel products, solid surface and wall panelling to a large and diverse customer base, through a multi-channel business model servicing the kitchen, bathroom, flooring and construction sectors. The company has 11 regional branches, 7 Makeover Centres and an online e-commerce platform. IDS will continue to operate with the existing management team under John Bagshaw, Managing Director, who has led the business since its formation from the merger of L Bloom and Meyer Laminates in 1999. The management team will be supported by the introduction of Tony Buffin as Chair, who has previously held roles on the Boards of Travis Perkins plc and Kingfisher plc and is currently the Chair of HIG-backed Highbourne Group.
John Bagshaw commented: “IDS has proved itself over two decades to be a strong business with an ambition for growth and we will be building on the support and infrastructure that being part of Saint Gobain has given us over twenty years. With my experienced management team, we look forward to a bright and dynamic future where we will take the business to the next level. It’s very much business as usual and we look forward to continuing our partnerships with our trusted customer and supplier base. With Chiltern and Tony’s support, we will build on our leading market position, as well as expanding our product offering, to drive faster growth.” Joe Bennett, Chiltern Capital, added: “We are delighted to partner with John and his management team. With our investment and strategic support, IDS is well positioned to accelerate the development of its product portfolio and enhance its operational footprint to better serve its trusted customers and suppliers”
www.idsurfaces.co.uk
John Bagshaw, Managing Director of IDS outside Stoke on Trent
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EVENTS EVENTS
23-26 August
12-15 October
20-21 September
12-15 October
12-15 October
22 – 26 October
IWF Atlanta Atlanta, USA
The Bed Show Telford, Shropshire
Sicam Pordenone, Italy
33.BI-MU Milan-Rho, Italy
Xylexpo Milan-Rho, Italy
Woodtech Istanbul, Turkey
2023 7-9 February
13-15 June
18-20 April
12-14 September
9-12 May
17-19 October
Fire Door Manufacturing Weinig UK Abingdon, UK
Window Manufacturing Weinig UK Abingdon, UK
ZOW Bad Salzuflen, Germany
9-12 May
Interzum Cologne, Germany
15-19 May
Ligna Hannover, Germany 8 6
www.p-j-production.com
Nesting VS Cut, Edge & Drill Weinig UK Abingdon UK
The Smaller Workshop Weinig UK Abingdon, UK
Edgebanding Technology Weinig UK Abingdon, UK
23-27 September
W Exhibition/Elements NEC, Birmingham
W W W . E C O G A T E . C O . U K
FRONT COVER STORY
KICKSTART INSPIRATION WITH LATHAMS’ DÉCORS CAMPAIGN The UK furniture sector is continually and rapidly evolving. With so much variety on the market, particularly when it comes to material options, it can be hard to stay ahead of the game. However, at James Latham Ltd, we’ve made it our mission to help you do just that with our summer 2022 Décors Campaign. Celebrating our 1,400-strong collection of decorative materials, over the coming months we’ll take you on a journey of discovery. We’ll be bringing our full catalogue of laminates, melamines, edgings, veneers and solid surfaces, directly to you and your team, to foster creativity, spark imagination and inspire your next furniture project. Specifically, it will present the opportunity to showcase our expansive range of decorative products. From timelesslystylish, industry-leading brands including EGGER, HIMACS, Kronospan and Abet Laminati, to European inspired, boutique brands, such as Transformad, Xylocleaf, Dekodor and Decospan, we have something to meet almost any brief, whether a unique commission or mass production. It will also give you the opportunity to explore the depth of our portfolio of high-performance décors, and the sheer breadth of textures, colours, shades and tones available. Encompassing industrial metallics, rusts, concretes, marble and natural timber to sensual leathers, linens and lacquerware, we have them all!
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You’ll also find attributes such as anti-bacterial, antimicrobial, flame retardance, impact resistance, even thermo-healing properties, spread throughout the ranges. And that’s not all. Taking you beyond the décors themselves, we’ll also highlight how our service is intrinsic to our offer. For example, if you also need core materials for the substrate on which your chosen finishes can shine, we can help. Possessing a wide variety of MDF, Plywood, fibre
FRONT COVER STORY boards, beautiful hardwoods and modified, engineered and profiled timbers, we offer both form and function in one place. This endless world of possibilities is complemented with an unrivalled distribution service, harnessing the power of our UK and Ireland-wide, 14-depot strong logistics network to offer ‘Just in Time’ delivery. This ensures you have the products you need, when you need them. Speedy delivery across our entire range, as well as a substantial reserve of stock, means we can meet large-volume orders of multiple materials at short notice. Finally, we’ll show you how easy it is to find just what you’re looking for via our latest innovation: the new Digital Showroom. Whether a quick skim of, or a deep-dive into, our myriad décor options, our advanced algorithm-backed search function makes the selection process simple, engaging and enjoyable. The showroom allows you to see our entire Décors range rendered in hyperrealistic, high-resolution 3D, from every angle and under a range of different lighting conditions, to help make the most informed choice possible. This is enhanced by a straight-to-your-door sampling service and the ability to book a video consultation with one of our showroom staff. It’s taking the selection experience to the next level, so you can make the most informed material choice. So, there you have it, our Summer Décors campaign. It not only reveals the extensive design potential of our unique catalogue, but also highlights why we remain ready, willing and able to meet the needs and demands of the sector’s vibrant furniture and joinery community. E: info@lathams.co.uk www.lathamdigitalshowroom.co.uk
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Safety Storage Efficiency
Enhance Safety, Storage and Efficiency in your timber warehouse with Combilift Combilift is the perfect fit for the timber industry. Our forklifts of all sizes are designed for long product loads and narrow aisle operation, allowing you to maximise your storage, efficiency and safety.
Contact Us Today To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space
combilift.com
INDUSTRY BLUM CELEBRATES 70 YEARS ALONGSIDE OUR QUEEN AND COUNTRY We all know this is an important year for our Country and our Queen, culminating in this weekend’s celebrations, but it is also the seventieth anniversary of the launch of the fittings manufacturer Blum. Started on the 1st March 1952, Blum originally made horseshoe studs after the founder, Julius Blum who was a farrier, realised that keeping the horses’ shoes on with a simple stud would stop them slipping in adverse weather. Just six years later the company made its first furniture hinge, the start of a business which would come to dominate the furniture industry with subsidiaries throughout the world, a turnover of over 2.3 billion Euros, and over 8,000 employees, as well as a thriving apprentice programme. Blum, however, like the Queen, have not rested on their laurels in the 70 years of business. The product range has leapt to numerous hinges, drawer runners and lift
systems for wall units. And the innovation does not stop there. Their services are unrivalled in the industry, with a technical department which is open 12 hours a day, every weekday, as well as Saturday mornings, a retail services department which aids retailers in showing Blum products to their best advantage and numerous aids to installation and manufacture, both online and physical. In addition Blum offer a lifetime guarantee on all their products – you could say a lifetime of service – just like our Queen. The final cherry on the top in the UK is that the Blum headquarters are now situated in a city! Yes, Milton Keynes has been awarded the status of City of Milton Keynes, as part of the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Marketing Team Leader Lisa Robinson commented: “Hard work and determination spawn new opportunities. At the heart of it all is our commitment to improve not just our products, but the service and support we offer all our partners. It’s in our nature.”
01908 285700 T:T:01908 285700 www.blum.com www.blum.com
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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NEW PRODUCT
SCM PRESENTS WINDORFLEX
“SPREAD YOUR WINGS WITH WINDORFLEX & FUTURE-PROOF YOUR WINDOWS PRODUCTION” Panel & Joinery Production’s Clare Hollister was invited to the press launch of Windorflex at the SCM Headquarters in Rimini to see first-hand the impressive new machining cell for producing windows and doors. This new machine is an innovative and high-tech solution to producing window frames, regardless of the type or size and has been designed with future-proofing window production in mind. Clare commented: “Windorflex exemplifies the forward-thinking ethos of the SCM Group who talk to their customers, research their needs, look at their requirements and then develop solutions to meet their demands. Customer care is at the forefront of everything they do and being able to see how the company is expanding it’s manufacturing in Italy shows how they continue to grow and continue as innovators in their field.” Windorflex optimises production rhythms by maintaining high flexibility and excellent finishing, which give the new SCM automatic cell the ability to optimise its design giving a single solution for all the necessary operations required for windows and doors manufacturing. Right now design and eco-sustainability are the two main trends defining wooden windows production. The design dictates the finish, quality and shape of the windows, while the eco-sustainability primarily involves the way as they are manufactured.
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As for the production of wooden windows, the level of perceived finish quality is steadily growing which means in order to optimise production rates and flexibility it is essential that significant attention is paid to the machines constructive features. Being a technology partner of the world’s leading window and door manufacturers for seventy years gives SCM the opportunity to continuously listen to the customer’s most detailed requirements and allows them to continually produce advanced responses and solutions. Based on these prerogatives, SCM designed Windorflex, the new machining cell for the production of windows and doors. Their new campaign “Spread your wings with Windorflex & future-proof your windows production” highlights the fact that the machine is an innovative and high-tech solution for producing window frames, regardless of the type. Windorflex has a fixed gantry structure that allows for high machining speeds whilst ensuring the best accuracy. The configurability of the machining units with 4 and 5-axis powerful and interchangeable electrospindles, which allow performing all the necessary operations for the production of complete windows. The alternate use of the two routing units reduces the cycle time: while one unit is working, the other performs the tool change in masked time.
NEW PRODUCT
The innovative automatic worktable is equipped with dedicated clamps for the constant holding of the work-pieces. It is possible to process from 1 to 4 work-pieces in sequence. The worktable modularity allows managing three work-piece lengths: 3500, 4500, 6000 mm. The work-piece repositioning, from the internal side machining to the external one, is direct between the clamps, without needing additional devices, to ensure excellent finish quality. Another advantage is the automatic work-pieces loading/ unloading systems that enable the machine to work autonomously, without the continuous input of the operator. These systems are available in two solutions: with loading/ unloading bench or with an anthropomorphous robot that picks up the rough elements and unloads the finished work-pieces on special trolleys. The exclusive Maestro active windoor software, specifically developed for the control and the programming of Windorflex, is capable of meeting any demands related to windows and doors production thanks also to Maestro connect, the SCM IoT system. Clare added: “We were fortunate to have a presentation by Luigi De Vito, General Manager of SCM Group, who outlined a positive future for the SCM Group moving forward despite the global challenges manufacturing is experiencing. SCM are increasing their capacity by investing and expanding their plants and are looking to a sustainable future with their high level of customer care at the forefront of everything they do.”
www.scmwood.com
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NEW
INTRODUCING THE COMBI-FSE – THE NEW ELECTRIC SIDELOADER FROM COMBILIFT Irish forklift manufacturer Combilift has added yet another addition to its now extensive electric range with the launch of the Combi-FSE – a four wheeled, two directional sideloader in both 5,000kg or 6,000kg lift capacity. As part Combilift’s drive to help customers achieve their aims of more sustainable operations, over 60% of the company’s output is now electric. Recent models such as the Combi-XLE and now the Combi-FSE focus on heavier duty application for industry sectors such as timber, steel, tubes & pipes and builders merchants. Thanks to Combilift’s immense engineering and design experience, the CombiFSE delivers on all aspects of reliability, durability, powerful performance and ease of maintenance, combined of course with the quiet and emission free electric operation that more and more customers are demanding. The patented traction system in this new product plays a major part in ensuring the optimum performance of the Combi-FSE in all weather conditions. Sensors in the front steering axle linked to the innovative Electronic Traction Control system enable the 2 independent 15kW drive motors on the rear axle to be controlled individually, with the speed of each wheel governed by the steer angle of the front wheels to provide improved steering control for the operator, better truck turning radius and reduced tyre wear. This new technology, when combined with regenerative braking (which recaptures the truck’s kinetic energy during deceleration and can be used to recharge the batteries to extend battery life), makes for Combilift’s most advanced steering system on its four wheeled trucks to date.
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The generous glazing of the cab, particularly the roof to floor windscreen, allows the operator to have an excellent field of vison of the load, the machine and the surroundings. Considerable engineering development to ensure optimum visibility for the driver saw the perfection of the under-deck battery system, with the power pack strategically placed at the rear of the truck between the drive motors - giving a clear line of sight to the rear and when reversing, and guaranteeing the best operator visibility of any comparable truck. This position also enables safe and easy battery removal from the low-level rear of the truck. Maintenance time has been kept to a minimum due to key service features such as its quick interchangeable battery for
NEW
shift work, centralised grease points on the front and rear of the load platform and removable panels for easy access to the motor. Combilift CEO Martin McVicar commented: “We introduced our first 4-wheel sideloader around 10 years ago after initial requests from companies in the timber sector, and it has since become pretty much a standard solution for those who run intensive schedules which clock up many
operational hours. The technological advancements in battery technology since then means that it was a natural progression to develop this electric model, which will help customers to drastically reduce their carbon footprint.”
https://combilift.com/combi-fse-electric-sideloader/
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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CASE STUDY The high-performance saw produces larger volumes of panels in finish cut quality
DAMS FURNITURE BOOSTS EFFICIENCY WITH HOMAG’S SAWTEQ B-400 Established in 1967, Dams Furniture Limited is a UK manufacturer and wholesaler of office furniture, operating from one large site in Knowsley, Merseyside. It is a growing business employing over 350 people in the UK. To manage and improve its production capacity to cater for increased product demand, the company’s senior management recently invested in a HOMAG SAWTEQ B-400 panel dividing saw. The company now operates a total of six HOMAG machines and has benefited from a considerable increase in manufacturing efficiency following the acquisition of the new HOMAG saw. HOMAG SAWTEQ B-400 panel dividing saw HOMAG’s SAWTEQ B-400 is a horizontal panel saw with an automatic feed system that significantly speeds up the cutting process. The high-performance saw can process
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larger volumes of panels in finish cut quality. It works reliably and precisely at high speed and delivers superior throughput. This is achieved by, among other things, its lifting table for automatic feeding. 33 per cent increase in production speeds Commenting on the efficiency benefits the SAWTEQ B-400 has delivered, the company’s managing director Chris Scott said: “The new saw is much more productive and significantly faster than our previous saw. We used to run our last saw across three shifts 24 hours a day. The new HOMAG saw runs across only two shifts for the same level of output. So, we have gained a 33 per cent increase in our production rates while lowering costs considerably.”
CASE STUDY
Managing Director of Dams Furniture, Chris Scott
HOMAG SAWTEQ B-400 panel dividing saw
Sourcing the right supplier Scott, went on to remark about the selection process to source the best product supplier saying: “The process of finding the right supplier for this equipment began with assessing our production requirements and putting together a detailed specification for the equipment we required.
Impressive aftersales service delivered time and again With its investment now up to six HOMAG machines, Dams Furniture has many years’ experience in dealing with HOMAG UK’s sales and aftersales teams. Remarking on this, managing director, Chris Scott, said: “When selecting the new machinery, the quality of the supplier’s aftersales service plays an important role.
“We looked through the various trade magazines and went to the trade fairs in Germany and the UK. After inviting suppliers to tender we undertook a cost comparison and return on investment analysis of the three supplier quotations received.
“Having been involved with HOMAG UK’s service teams over the years, we knew they delivered excellent aftersales support. This was demonstrated yet again when the new HOMAG saw was installed. The HOMAG team worked flat out over the Christmas and New Year shut down period to install the equipment and prevent any manufacturing disruption to our business.”
“Then, after selecting HOMAG as our preferred supplier of the saw, we visited other companies to see the SAWTEQ B-400 in operation. During the visits we were able to speak directly to the companies’ owners about the saw’s performance. Our HOMAG sales manager, Jon Lawman, guided us through this review process which we found really beneficial.”
T: 01332 856500 E: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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Mirka® AIROS R O B OT I C SANDING BY MIRKA
Sanding for industry workers can often be associated with health risks due to being exposed to dust and vibrations. Increasingly, the solution to sanding is automation. Mirka® AIROS is the first smart electric sander for industrial robots. Designed by dedicated surface finishing professionals, this automated industrial random orbital sander is easy to integrate and suits the requirements of different manufacturing industries.
For further information, please contact Customer Services on 01908 866100
www.mirka.co.uk
FEATURE WILLIAM HUGHES IS WELDED TO SUCCESS William Hughes has become an authority in the supply of welded wire assemblies, primarily for the automotive industry. The Company’s expertise in MIG, MAG, TIG, spot/resistance and Butt welding processes has led to it establishing a total of 33 welding cells across its three factories in the UK, Poland and Bulgaria. In the UK, William Hughes Ltd is the only supplier of large volume automotive welded assemblies, a skill it has spent the last twenty years perfecting, still trading. William Hughes has always been a large volume producer of wires, springs and small welded assemblies for the automotive industry. Twenty years ago, welding was carried out manually or by simple semi-automated machines but Engineering Director Emma Burgon had the foresight to focus on acquiring a contract for 100% rear seat welded assemblies, having correctly recognised a potential gap in the market at the Company’s low cost facility in Bulgaria. The William Hughes engineering department was tasked with understanding the specific tooling required to manufacture this type of product and the investment necessary to bring such tooling manufacture in-house.
rear seat welded assemblies have approximately 50-60 welds; however for one of the newly secured projects, each frame had a total of 120 welds! Despite the complexity and difficulty involved, William Hughes rose to the challenge. Using a mixture of in-house design with support from subcontract tool makers, the first William Hughes welding tools were soon being produced. Shortly afterwards, the first-off tool components appeared and were ready to be measured in William Hughes’s high-tech quality department. After 2 years of manufacture in Bulgaria, word of the Company’s capability reached the customer base in the UK and they secured their first welded assembly for the home market. By this time, some serious investment in machinery and personnel had led to William Hughes producing its own tooling, allowing more control over design philosophy and greater cost effectiveness. These early projects have now all gone to end of production but William Hughes growth in this area has meant that they now have a total of 23 MAG robot welding cells and 10 spot robot welding cells over its three manufacturing locations.
After several years of honing their knowledge and developing their expertise, the team in Bulgaria was successful in securing two major contracts. Typically these
T: 01963 363377 E: sales@wmhughes.co.uk www.wmhughes.co.uk
Twin Resistance Spot Welding Cell in action at William Hughes, Dorset
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FEATURE
PUTTING THE BIG IN STRIEBIG Standing at over three metres high, Omnia CS Ltd (Omnia) is the proud owner of the UK’s tallest Striebig vertical panel saw. Capable of cutting panels up to 2700mm x 6100mm, this purpose-built Striebig Evolution has been designed to make light work of cutting composite materials and thermoplastic sandwich panels to size. “For over 15 years, we’ve been manufacturing and distributing lightweight, sustainable composite materials and thermoplastic sandwich panels in the UK,” says Les Meader, Managing Director of Omnia CS Ltd (Omnia). “An essential part of our production process is cutting large sheets to size but it’s always been a slow and laborious process for us. Due to the sheet sizes we were working with and the available space in our workshop, we were having to lay each panel on a flat surface or floor, manually measure each panel and use a chop saw and guiderail to cut each panel to the correct size. We knew this wasn’t an efficient way of working and, with orders increasing, we knew a vertical panel saw could improve productivity, reduce errors and de-skill the cutting process.” Omnia’s requirements were clear. “We needed a saw with a relatively small footprint but that could still cut composite panels up to 2700mm x 6100mm, as well as standard 8x4 MDF sheets and 1.5mm thick aluminium sheets. It also needed to offer simple operation, guarantee accuracy with every cut and offer a high level of operator safety,” explains Les. “We spoke to three companies but it was only TM Machinery that were able to fulfil our requirements. They knew their product range inside out and back to front and were able to work with us to find the right machine for our business. They told us the tallest standard Evolution saw
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was able to cut 2240mm but Striebig were able to build a saw especially for us that was capable of cutting sheets up to 2700mm and 80mm deep and deliver it to our new 8,000m2 premises in Nottingham within seven weeks. It was this level of flexibility that was simply not available through any other manufacturer.” Designed to simplify the cutting of panels and reduce handling, the Evolution came equipped with a wide range of standard features, including an easy-to-use 12” touch screen operating system, 5,5 kW motor, automatic locking, swivelling, plunging and withdrawal of the saw unit and
FEATURE support rollers for a one-man cutting operation – a necessity for Omnia, who’s panels can weigh upwards of 105kg. It was also built to order with manual and digital measuring stops to provide a cutting accuracy of 0.1mm. Following the smooth installation of the Evolution and completion of staff training, the vertical panel saw was quick to prove its worth. Les says, “The results were immediate. A job that would have taken two people a week to complete can now be completed in a single afternoon. Whilst we still need two people to lift larger sheets onto the saw, cutting a sheet to size is a one-person job, allowing us to save on labour costs and significantly reduce material handling. We’ve also been able to utilise the machine’s 80mm cutting depth and cut multiple sheets on the saw at one time, reducing production time and increasing efficiencies. In turn, this has allowed us to fulfil larger orders and still offer a competitive lead time.” It’s also opened new doors for the Nottingham-based company. “We’re looking at offering a cutting service to local businesses to maximise our yield. This wouldn’t have been possible without our Striebig.” Les adds, “We are on target to double our turnover this year. Whilst this isn’t all down to the introduction of the vertical panel saw, it’s certainly played its part. Thanks to the speed and accuracy of the Striebig, we are able to maintain a continual workflow and not have a build-up of sheets needing to be cut at one given time. This had reduced our risk of error, reduced material waste and has resulted in greater efficiencies across the workshop. Best of all, no one is required to work on their hands and knees to complete what is essentially a simple task made complex by not having the right tools. We couldn’t recommend TM Machinery and Striebig more highly.”
For more information please visit: www.tmmachinery.co.uk
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FEATURE FEATURE SECTION
MAWERA UK
We have been building industrial biomass boiler systems for energy production since 1975. Biomass fuel is subject to fewer price fluctuations than fossil fuels and contributes to a thriving future thanks to its sustainability and CO2 neutrality. • • •
Affordable fuel with low price fluctuations High availability Renewable, CO2-neutral energy source
In addition to companies directly involved in the timber industry, many local authorities, contractors and other commercial power supply utilities are opting for biomass as a fuel. Biomass is less prone to extreme price fluctuations than fossil fuels and, being sustainable and CO2 neutral, contributes significantly to preserving the quality of life for future generations. The type of fuel and other customer-specific requirements determine the best kind of combustion system. Options include underfeed, flat moving grate, step grate and direct firing systems. Biomass as fuel Sustainable energy generation using wood remnants from production processes.
The Mawera wood heating system: the Vito flex 300-SRT step grate combustion system, with a floor-standing combustion chamber and 2600 kW rated heating output, is ideal for spruce bark combustion with almost no residues. The fuel may contain up to 60 per cent moisture without compromising system function. This enables the use of wet bark without pre-drying. In addition, the combustion system meets the most stringent emission standards and is characterised by extremely low NOx and CO values. Wood-burning systems for various applications Alongside the energy requirements, selecting the right biomass heating system also depends on several other factors, such as the type, form (piece size), water content and ash content of the fuel. The annual operating hours and the heat demand are also important aspects. Combustion Chambers ranging from 180 to 13.000 kW Heat exchangers for water and steam Fuel storage and discharging Conveying systems and mixing boxes Flue gas cleaning and ventilation Flue kits and chimneys Controls and visualisation Accessories like ash containers, silo covers and cleaning systems
T: 01543258844 www.mawera.co.uk
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FEATURE
FEATURE SECTION
THE CHANGING FACE OF DUST EXTRACTION AND INDUSTRIAL WOOD-FIRED EQUIPMENT IN THE UK
Chris Franklin, Managing Director of Ranheat Engineering Ltd. looks at the changes that have been made with dust extraction and wood-waste burning equipment in the UK woodworking Industry over the last 40 years. The earliest extraction systems used large diameter simple cyclones but with the increasing use of MDF and MFC these were not suitable for fine dusts that modern machining methods produce such as CNC routers and high speed moulding of MDF into profiles. Early dust extraction systems in the UK mainly originated from Scandinavia, in particular Moldow A/S, Nordfab A/S and Aagaard A/S. were seen as the main manufacturers. They quickly established “daughter” companies in the UK with Nordfab (GB) Ltd. Moldow Ltd. and Aagaard UK Ltd. Ranheat A/S was originally owned by and was a subsidiary of Nordfab A/S. Originally Ranheat made mainly small boilers for the agricultural market. Nordfab worked with boiler manufactures such as Danstoker and Justsen made the combustion and feed systems. Ranheat A/S split from Nordfab under Knud Ostergard- Nielson. Ranheat became an independent company but still worked closely with Nordfab GB. Dick Parker was the UK director for Nordfab. Dick then founded Nordist Ltd. (literally Nordfab installations)
Ranheat was acquired in 1990 by it’s current owners Chris & Barbara Franklin and started manufacture in Northamptonshire. Ostergard-Nielson moved to take over Weiss Germany (large boiler manufacturer) which was now part of the Nordfab Group. Ranheat continued in the agricultural industry but developed more and more products to meet the needs of the UK wood-working industry, this coincided with the rapid increase in man made timber products such as MDF. New combustion systems and flue gas cleaning systems were needed and Ranheat Engineering continued to focus more and more on the UK wood-working industry. In the early days most dust extraction systems were bag filters with an auger discharging via a rotary valve. As filters grew the chain filter become more prevalent and finally the cyclone filter such as the Indusvent Superblower made by JKF A/S. In the UK there are currently more than 100 companies installing dust extraction systems in the UK. British manufactures began making screw filters, chain filters and cyclo-filters such as Wood-Waste control (engineering) Ltd. Dustraction and the Woodwork dust control company, to name just three.
www.ranheat.com
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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FEATURE FEATURE SECTION
HALF PRICE DUST EXTRACTION? As a manufacturer in the woodworking industry, your extraction fans are likely to be burning more electricity than all of your machinery so, with UK energy prices rising inexorably, is there a solution? Often accounting for more than 35% of a factory’s total expenditure on electricity, a dust extraction system is typically the largest consumer of electricity, but returning a profit, or even surviving in today’s climate, requires machines to be as near to 100% productive as possible – which means dust extraction is also required to be operational for 100% of the working day. For decades, furniture and joinery manufacturers have had to run their extraction fans at full power, all day, every day, irrespective of the number of woodworking machines that are operating, or the amount of dust to be extracted. To put that into perspective, a middle-of-the-road extraction system, with a couple of 30kW fans, running 12 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 50 weeks, is going to consume around 180,000kW of electricity a year. Only last year, with electricity for industrial users costing around 10 to 15 pence per kilowatt hour, the total annual bill for powering the extraction system would have worked out at somewhere between £18,000 and £27,000. That’s a sizable chunk off anyone’s bottom line but, roll forward a year, and the same factory today is likely to be paying out in excess of £45,000 to power the same extraction system. So, if your machines have to work all day, and the extraction system has to run all day, the only way to get those costs back in harness is to make the extraction system more energy efficient. There are other systems on the market now, but the original and innovative ECOGATE® “Extraction-on-Demand” System, first introduced to the UK woodworking industry back in 2010, is a world leader in this field of energy-saving technology. Ecogate’s throwaway claim is that the system can reduce your extraction running costs by half but, on average, Ecogate installations have actually reduced electricity usage by over 65%, and have saved some users more than 20% off their entire factory’s electricity bill. So how does it work? The theory behind Ecogate technology is not a new concept; in fact, it’s based on science that was proven as long ago as the late 1800s. In this application, the laws of physics work in Ecogate’s favour and, in overly-simplified terms, it’s the relationship between fan speed and extraction volume that provides the explanation. Fan speed and extraction volume are directly proportional; if you vary the fan speed, the volume changes by the same percentage. However, the relationship between volume and power is cubic3, which means a relatively small reduction in extraction volume achieves a much larger reduction in the electricity required to power the fan. As a rule of thumb, Fan Laws dictate that a 50% reduction in power consumption can be achieved by reducing fan speed by just 20%, but the more complex side of the science is the technology which ensures any reductions made to the fan speed, which produces the power savings, are achieved without causing any reduction in the effectiveness of your extraction system.
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Although extraction systems have traditionally been operated continuously, at full power, a typical joinery shop with, for example, a dozen different dust-producing machines, is rarely operating all of those machines at the same time. The technology behind an Ecogate system constantly monitors machine usage and, when machines are idle, or come on and off line, the system calculates the change in extraction volume required to maintain effective control of the waste dust being produced, at any given time, and then adjusts fan speed accordingly in order to optimise energy consumption. Effectively, an Ecogate® System constantly adjusts fan speed, to exactly match demand for extraction, in real-time – the moment a machine goes offline, the fan speed reduces and power is saved. The system is also designed to maintain minimum airflow in the ductwork system; delivering good system balance and preventing sawdust from settling in the ductwork. The computer-controlled system employs automatic motorised gates and remote sensors, which signal the controller to open or close appropriate gates when a machine comes on or offline. The central control unit, or greenBOX®, constantly monitors individual machines and determines the optimum fan speed, which is achieved via a variable speed drive unit – the Ecogate® PowerMASTER™ which was designed in collaboration with global technology company, ABB. The brain of the entire system is the Ecogate greenBOX® Controller, and Ecogate offer a range of controllers to manage any size of installation; from the greenBOX® 12, renowned for its simplicity, reliability, and flexibility, through to the greenBOX® MASTER – the world’s most advanced control system for industrial extraction. The greenBOX® 12 is ideal for small to medium workshops with a single main fan and up to 12 workstations, or multiple greenBOX® 12 units can work together to control a larger system. At the other end of the scale, a single greenBOX® MASTER, with colour touchscreen for monitoring, setup, and maintenance, is capable of handling up to four separate systems with a total of up to 180 motorised ‘Smart’ gates. Is it just for new extraction systems? Ecogate® is just as effective when installed as an energysaving upgrade for an existing dust or fume extraction system as it is when installed on a new extraction system. Integrating Ecogate technology into an existing dust extraction system can be undertaken with minimal production downtime and, with an installation often paying for itself through savings made in the first 12 months, it’s certainly looking like there’s never going to be a better time to invest in Ecogate® technology. Does it make toast? No… but we do believe you’ll think it’s the best thing since sliced bread! As well as saving energy and delivering cost savings for your company, an Ecogate® system delivers many additional benefits that stand it apart from other products:
FEATURE SECTION By reducing the volume and velocity of the air being extracted, Ecogate® also reduces the noise level in your factory. Ecogate® customers can also expect to significantly extend filter media life because of the reduced air velocity and volume. Reduced air volume requirements may also allow you to add new machines without upgrading your existing filter unit. When adding, removing, or just relocating equipment to improve productivity, an Ecogate® system can be easily reconfigured to account for changes in extraction requirement. Ecogate technology eliminates the risk of dust settling in the main duct and greatly reduces dust accumulation in the factory. Dust that isn’t adequately removed is harmful for everything from employee health to finish quality and, ultimately, can increase the risks of fire and explosion.
How much will it cost? No industry can avoid addressing the problem of poor energy efficiency, but installing Ecogate technology allows you to take control of your running costs by taking control of your single biggest user of electricity; your extraction system. In the UK, our exclusive Ecogate® dealer and key installer is Extractly Ltd; a relatively young but highly-experienced and motivated team of engineers who have been involved with Ecogate since the product was launched in the UK. Extractly have a host of happy customers who would recommend Ecogate® in a heartbeat, and Extractly sales engineers are only too willing to visit your site to undertake a free survey of your extraction system in order to appraise your current power usage and the potential savings an Ecogate® system could achieve. Once the survey has been completed, Extractly will provide a fixed price quotation for supply, installation and commissioning.
With Ecogate® installed, you can rest assured that your dust extraction system will continue to meet, and exceed, HSE requirements for LEV. Ecogate® reduces the environmental footprint of your operation; moving you closer to sustainability. Around the world to date, Ecogate customers have reduced emissions of CO2 by a total of more than 1.9 billion tonnes, and are currently saving a total of around 65 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year.
Ecogate’s greenBOX 12 and greenBOX MASTER continuously determine optimum fan speed to exactly match extraction requirements, and the Power MASTER variable speed drive unit adjusts power to the fan accordingly
Ecogate’s automatic motorised dampers; quietly reducing energy usage by at least 50% in a typical joinery workshop
There’s a full range of Ecogate motorised dampers to fit all common ductwork diameters
If you’re looking to rein in the costs of running your extraction system, contact Extractly Ltd to find out more, or to book an appointment for a free energy-saving survey. T: 01924 520462 E: info@extractly.co.uk www.extractly.co.uk
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FEATURE FEATURE SECTION
TIMBER MERCHANT SHAVES MONEY OFF ITS BUSINESS BILLS Another timber merchant is saying goodbye to unnecessary heating and waste disposal bills after buying a new wood waste heater from Wood Waste Technology. Mike England Timber Co. Ltd is an independent timber merchant established since 1969, based in the North West, delivering the highest quality timber to UK based builders merchants, DIY outlets and timber suppliers. The company had become aware of the benefits of wood waste heaters through reading articles in the trade press, and so began the process to consider the investment in one. As the mill has no built-in heating system, the management team at Mike England Timber liked the idea that waste wood could be converted to energy to warm the mill. There was also an additional incentive over and above saving money on heat and waste disposal. The team realised that the installation of a suitable wood waste heater in the drying room of the mill would help maintain the required temperature, which, in turn, would greatly assist and speed up the works processes. Following more information and a site survey, Wood Waste Technology’s specialist engineers installed a WT5 wood waste heater into the drying room at Mike England Timber’s premises in Preston. Office Manager, Gavin Butterworth says: “We are delighted with our investment. It’s working much better than we envisaged and ticks all the boxes for everything we needed. It’s one of those ‘why didn’t we do it sooner’ moments. Furthermore, the team at Wood Waste has been extremely helpful and a pleasure to deal with!”. MD of Wood Waste Technology, Kurt Cockroft says: “We’ve been delighted to help Mike England Timber Co. Ltd save money and work more sustainably. We’re proud of the good reputation our heaters have developed, as every wood waste heater we’ve ever sold is still in operation today.” Wood Waste Technology offers a full range of wood waste heaters, from small hand fired units to larger fully automatic systems, and offers site survey and design, as well as manufacture, installation and on-going maintenance. The company also services all types of wood waste heaters and supplies genuine spares up to 60% cheaper than other suppliers.
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For more information on how you can save or make money by using your wood waste: T: 01785 250400 www.woodwastetechnology.com www.grossuk.co.uk
RHI Approved
…energy from wood MAWERA UK LTD PO Box 5581 Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 4FS Tel: O1543 258844 Email: info@mawera.co.uk www.mawera.co.uk
Wood waste disposal problems?
RANHEAT ENGINEERING LTD 62-64 St James Mill Road, St James Mill Industrial Estate, Northampton NN5 5JP Tel: +44 (0)1604 750005 Fax: +44 (0)1604 757300 Web: www.ranheat.com Email: sales@ranheat.com
Wood Combustion Equipment Industrial Heating Systems Specialist Metal Fabrications Ranheat design and manufacture the complete range of equipment including Boilers, Heaters, Stokers, Grit Arrestors, Chimneys etc. Manual & automatic woodburning systems, gas & oil fired, turnkey installations for disposal and/or heating purposes, outputs up to 10 million BTU/HR
RanHeat275.indd 1
30/08/2016 09:47
Woodworking Machinery from
Castle Pocket Routers
Router Cutters
A comprehensive range of routing cutters in HSS, Carbide tipped and solid carbide to suit a wide variety of applications in TSM22 Pocket Router aerospace, woodworking, plastics and The most popular Pocket Router in the Castle range has composites. Enquiries welcomed for been re-designed with a new lift up table top. special cutters. This long established and widely used model continues to provide the quickest and strongest method for kitchen Extensive Stock and bedroom carcass manufacture, retail display stands and ATA Engineering carry an extensive stock other interior fitting applications. of cutters, tool holders and collets, all for next day delivery. Other models available see www.ataeng.com
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ATA Engineering Products Ltd ATA House, Unit B, Boundary Way, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7SS t: 01442 264411 e: sales@ataeng.com www.ataeng.com
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INDUSTRY THE HIDDEN VALUE OF PROFESSIONAL PRODUCT SUPPORT The exponential growth of Salvador crosscut sales in the UK and Ireland has continued in 2022. Daltons Wadkin, sole distributor for Salvador, has gained further market share by elevating itself above the competition through continued investment in aftersales support. “Competition is fierce. Other manufacturers and dealers rely on marginal price differences to win business”, comments Daltons Wadkin MD, Alex Dalton. “Our philosophy over the past 120 years has been to supply high quality equipment from specialist European brands backed by industry leading product support. When considering the life cycle and production impact of a Salvador crosscut saw, this formula offers exceptional value for money”.
To ensure continuity of service for existing and new Salvador customers, Daltons Wadkin has made further investment in its support team with additional field engineers and officebased technicians for telephone and remote assistance through network monitoring. Consumable items, tooling and spare parts stocks have also been increased to counter any potential Brexit import delays at customs. “Our ability to provide a professional turnkey delivery, installation and training service helps customers maximise their return on investment. High production equipment such as this demands the highest level of product support – for us, this is equally as important as the machine itself” concludes Alex.
Daltons Wadkin has one of the largest support services in the industry
Salvador SuperPush 200, one of the most popular crosscut saws in the UK
T: 0115 986 5201 E: info@daltonswadkin.com www.daltonswadkin.com
Panel & Joinery Production - July / August 2022
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FEATURE CUTTING-EDGE TRIMMING TECHNOLOGY BOOSTS PRODUCTIVITY AND QUALITY Machine: IT70 End Trim Saw unit Available on: Available on: AKRON 1400 series upwards The industry-leading IT70 linear edge trimming unit is now available on the AKRON 1400 edge-bander as Biesse cascades down its top level technologies throughout its range, giving mid-sized operations the opportunity to achieve the A1 finish that is usually the preserve of large capacity machines. For many years, the industry standard for trimming excess edging tape, so it is flush with the panel, has involved a process that incorporates two inclined motors. These track the panel at a 45 degree angle to ensure a clean and accurate cut.
Adopting a linear approach Biesse’s IT70 technology represents a quantum leap forward versus this method, both in terms of quality and productivity. The unit was originally engineered to work with high performance edgebanding machines, where precision and speed are paramount, and employs a completely different trimming technique. Instead of using a frictional copier that slides down the front and back edge of the panel, on the IT70, the saw follows the length of the panel horizontally and uses reference points to locate the panel as it travels before cutting the edge tape.
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There are two key advantages with this technique: firstly there is no friction between the panel and copiers - the saw simply locates the panel and cuts off the overhang. This results in a superior finish by preventing the problem of witness marks being left on the panel. Secondly, it reduces the gap between each panel, which allows more panels on a machine at the same time. Productivity can be improved by 30% in some cases.
www.biesse.com
FEATURE
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The Biesse advantage Whilst other manufacturers have a linear option within their portfolios, Biesse’s IT70 leads the pack in terms of its price:performance ratio. Superior engineering and the use of the latest technologies such as linear guides make for a unit that guarantees unrivalled longevity and reliability. The IT70 is available in both servo and pneumatic configurations. The unit can be supplied with a numerical control (NC) guide system for automatic offset adjustment. This feature is particularly useful to accommodate edge tapes from different suppliers as their thickness dimensions can vary. Without this, the operator would need to manually reset the machine to accommodate for the variation in tape thickness
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INDUSTRY
HOMAG REDEFINES CNC PROCESSING WITH THE NEW DRILLTEQ V-310 HOMAG is setting new standards with the launch of its DRILLTEQ V-310 vertical CNC processing centre.
interface. The unit can be easily combined with an 8-position tool changer and adapted to the application situation.
Launched in April, the DRILLTEQ V-310 has a range of technologically advanced features that have never been seen before on this type of vertical CNC machine. The availability options such as a C axis, aggregates and/or dowel insertion make the HOMAG V-310 a fully versatile allrounder.
Because of this, extensive sawing, routing, and drilling tasks can be performed for panel and timber based materials.
A unique space-saving vertical CNC processing centre Resources and space are often limited, especially in the craft woodworking sector. The ability to offer high-quality, individualised CNC processing within a limited area, was the key driver behind HOMAG’s development of the space saving DRILLTEQ V-310. With a footprint of just 11 m², this vertical CNC processing centre delivers a comprehensive range of routing, drilling and grooving solutions combined with additional features. DRILLTEQ V-310 – delivering a wealth of technical features and benefits The unit has up to 45 drilling spindles, two swivelling grooving saws - one for grooving and one for Clamex, in addition to a dowel insertion unit and a C-axis with a unit
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Optimised handling and ergonomic processes Workpieces on the DRILLTEQ V-310 are optimally held with two pneumatic vacuum-free clamps when they are drawn into the machine during production with no required set-up. The workpieces are ergonomically clamped via an easily accessible foot switch. A large panoramic window offers a clear view of the interior of the machine. The tilting control panel, in combination with the height-adjustable monitor, enables efficient working. This means that changing operators is easy, as adjustments can be made swiftly depending on operator height or preference. Quick access to all functions characterises the DRILLTEQ V-310 and is the basis for an efficiently thoughtout production process. Visual LED support with intelliGuide A feature that increases efficiency and ensures process reliability is the DRILLTEQ V-310’s tool-changing concept. On
INDUSTRY
DRILLTEQ V-310 - intelliGuide
the software system side, tools can be transferred from the tool management system ’toolManager‘ to the picker simply with a tap of a finger. The intelliGuide system then indicates where the new tool should be placed in the tool changer. To further support the machine operator, the loading area of the DRILLTEQ V-310 is also equipped with an LED assistance system. Here, intelliGuide is linked to the control system and shows the workpiece sizes and the correct positioning for loading into the machine by illuminating the LED bars in the X and Y directions. Quick visual checks guide the operator to ensure the loading of the correct sized workpiece. The DRILLTEQ V-310 also performs a plausibility check to measure the length and width of the workpiece. This makes sure that drill positions are accurate even if workpieces are presented slightly over or undersized. New safety feature with safeScan technology HOMAG has developed a new safety system for the machine to protect operators. Known as safeScan, this technology stops the machine if the lasers detect movement or entry into the operating area. The program is not interrupted but merely paused. Safe production is resumed when the
person leaves the confines of the operating area. Due to the automatically integrated auto-quit function, no confirmation or restarting of the machine is necessary. A state-of-the-art space-saving and feature-packed machine HOMAG has redefined CNC processing with the DRILLTEQ V-310. Its wealth of technical features, time-saving devices, and resource-saving benefits add up to make it the company’s most efficient vertical CNC processing centre to date. With its small footprint of 11 m² and leading-edge capabilities, the DRILLTEQ V-310 is a unique machine that will deliver multiple benefits to wood processing businesses.
If you would like a demonstration or more information on HOMAG’s machinery or software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424. T: 01332 856500 Email: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
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CASE STUDY ‘IT DOES EXACTLY WHAT IT SAYS ON THE BOX’ Laser Cutouts is a family owned and run business that has been successfully trading for approximately 10 years in Washington, Tyne & Wear. What was primarily set up for Laser cutting and engraving has now also evolved into wood crafting and box production. After being approached by a charity to see if they could produce memory boxes, they first began with laser cut out boxes. These required a great deal of manpower to complete as they still needed to be glued, clamped and left to dry. From this they moved to a locking mitre joint which was better but still required gluing, clamping and time to dry. Whilst visiting the 2019 annual Northern Woodworking Show in Harrogate, Company Director Paul Stott, came to the Hoffmann Machine Co stand. He was given a demonstration of the Hoffmann MU3 Dovetail Routing Machine by Sean, one of the Hoffmann team. He produced a simple but strong mitre joint in a matter of seconds. By drawing down
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the hand lever, the work-piece is clamped and the motor starts. Continued pressure on the lever raises the router unit through the work-piece and to the pre-set routing depth. When the hand lever is returned to its original position the motor switches off automatically and the routed work-piece is released. Digital and pneumatic models are also available for even greater accuracy and speed. Paul was so impressed that he sent Sean some samples of his 9mm thick poplar wood to test the accuracy and strength of the joints. A range of samples were produced using different sized Hoffmann Dovetail Keys (W2 – W0). It was agreed that the joint using the Hoffmann W-0 key would offer the ideal solution. Paul was so impressed with the samples that the Hoffmann MU3 Dovetail Routing Machine was purchased immediately and they haven’t looked back since!
CASE STUDY Paul Stott commented:
‘’With very limited training all our staff can now produce all parts of the box, eliminating the need to employ a dedicated member of staff. We can now produce the joints and start assembly immediately with no clamping required. The finished joints are tighter and stronger and add to the quality and finish of the box. Not only has the Hoffmann Dovetail Jointing System improved the quality of the joints, the production time has been reduced by 2/3, increasing productivity!’’
Laser Cutouts are currently producing 4 different sized boxes from small (150mm sq.) up to large (400mm sq.). The new Hoffmann W-0 key is 1/3 smaller than the already legendary W1, so it was ideal to use on Pauls 9mm thick profiles. With a cross sectional size of just 3.3mm x 4.4mm it will draw together profiles as thin as 7mm and upwards with startling strength. info@lasercutouts.co.uk
Hoffmann offer the service of joint processing in customer’s profiles for their assessment and approval. T: 01524 841500 E: info@hoffmann-uk.com www.hoffmann-uk.com
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INDUSTRY
MASTERWOOD GB OPEN HOUSE REVIEW Masterwood GB celebrated their first Open House dates since moving to their new showroom with a great turnout of new and existing customers across the 4-day event. Customers had the chance to view a full range of Masterwood machines including the new highspeed drilling FT600s and MS320 Beam saw which are manufactured by parent company, KDT Machinery. Throughout the 4 days, various demonstrations were run on the showroom machines to show off each machine’s capabilities. On the Pod and rail 5-axis CNC, one that grabbed a lot of attention was a full window frame and sash using Whitehill profile blocks. Masterwood GB sales director, Dave Kennard, said “Although 5-axis isn’t required for window production, we were able to show customers a speed and efficiency that can be achieved with a CNC machine to produce a complete window”. A traditional box window, designed using the MasterWindow and MasterWorks software packages, was also run on the pod and rail CNC, fully machining a sill, head, and a pair of pulley jams in approximately 15 minutes, a fraction of the time that a skilled woodworker would require to do the same work. The new TF-600S drilling machine did not disappoint. Customers were impressed with its high-speed work rate and ability to work on all 6 faces of a panel, producing a cabinet panel containing 30 holes, in just 10 seconds. The machine uses twin grippers to securely clamp the panel, and an air blower table to allow quick and smooth movement in and out of the working area. These machines are standard with drill heads and routers above and below and higher levels can have the option of tool changing. MS-320 Beam Saw – The long-awaited beam saw from Masterwood, in partnership with KDT, generated a lot of interest with the speed that panels could be cut from full size sheets and the quality of cut. The basic software allows panels sizes to be set and then to be optimized into sheet
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sizes to get the most efficient layouts with minimum waste. On the flat bed MW1225KS, a popular demo from the W18 exhibition, a dinosaur 3D jigsaw. The programs are created using Master3D software, and the design is nested together to get the maximum number of components out of sheet material. The current showroom model is a 4-axis version and allows the aggregate heads required for Lamello P-System joints to be used. Speedy II – The compact drilling machine demonstrated a simple cabinet being fully machined and using the Lamello jointing system. The machine is currently available as an ex-demo model. Contact MWGB office for more information. The Speedy is proving to be a very popular model with its main drilling facilities plus the added six position tool changer, it makes the machine very versatile for “One Offs” or for use with larger quantities of panels where in and out feed tables help. Our staff at Masterwood GB would like to thank all companies and customers who attended the open house to see the machinery and software packages we have to offer, as well as Whitehill and Lamello for their presence at the open house.
The Masterwood GB showroom is available for machine and software demos on a full range of products, at your convenience. To book a visit and see how Masterwood can change your business: T: 01293 402700 E: office@masterwoodgb.co.uk www.masterwood.com
INDUSTRY
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INDUSTRY PAUL WOOD MACHINES UK LTD Paul Ambrose started in 1977 in the woodworking industry and over the years has gained a wealth of experience in the woodworking industry working with SME to large PLC companies from simple machines to production lines.
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Having worked for some of the leading names in the industry over the last 40 years, including, Homag, Biesse and SCM, Paul took the decision to branch out on his own and created Paul Wood Machines UK Ltd in 2017. Initially, the company acted as an agent for an established used machinery dealer.
Whether furniture or joinery, doors or windows, Paul Wood could have a solution for you.
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New machinery can often have long lead times, so a reconditioned or pre-owned machine saves on your time and potential production delays. Purchasing a machine similar to one you already have can help drive down costs for parts and servicing.
But in 2021 Paul made the decision to start selling his own pre-owned machines which has gone from strength to strength with over 50 machines finding new homes in the UK, Europe and as far away as Africa. So why sell used machinery, Paul is asked, well here are some of the reasons why: •
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By using a pre-owned machine, you are recycling not just the materials, energy and labour costs but doing your bit to help with saving the planet by cutting down on waste. Also working with other companies, Paul can offer reconditioned machines giving another option to buying used machinery. It is an ideal way to save costs particularly for business start-ups on a budget.
Paul Wood Machines UK Ltd Wood For Good
Phone: 07925-342836 Email: paul-woodmachines@outlook.com Website: https://paulwoodmachinesltd.co.uk
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T: 07925 342836 E: Paul-woodmachines@outlook.com https://paulwoodmachinesltd.co.uk
FEATURE
HPC LASER – TECHNOLOGY AT ITS BEST HPC Laser is the UK’s leading supplier of laser engraving, cutting machines, and CNC routers. Established in 2006, they have supplied over 6000 machines to signmaking, education, trophy engravers and a wide range of other industrial and private customers for an almost infinite array of applications with a very proud reputation for outstanding customer service and support.
bed, tool change devices, 4th axis and multiple spindle arrangements at such attractive prices.
Working with only the best quality electrical and drivetrain components, they have redesigned their existing range into the most stable, powerful, flexible and reliable variety of machines.
If commuting is too difficult for you at the moment, we can still assist you! You can send us a file with your ideas or materials for testing. We will create a sample and send it to you with a video that will show you the whole process step by step.
CNC router technology has advanced significantly over the past few years. The most substantial developments are in travel speeds and positional accuracy, automated tool change options and enhanced operation and software integration features. HPC believe that one of the most practical machine developments in recent years has been the technological improvements made in spindle motor and frequency inverter technology.
We offer free machine demonstration sessions at our Halifax showroom where prospective customers are able to consult with our experienced engineers and see our machines processing their designs and materials.
T: 01422 310800 E: sales@hpclaser.co.uk www.hpclaser.co.uk
Recent developments in machine features, modular designs, and the lean and flexible manufacturing systems of today mean that customers can purchase a cost-effective tailormade machine configured to suit their exact needs and expectations faster than ever before. A 1-year ONSITE warranty covers all our CNC routers, and options are available to extend up to 3 years together with service and maintenance agreements. Our customers benefit from our UK spare parts stockholding, highly rated lifetime e-mail and telephone technical support, and our skilled engineers are on hand to carry out installation, training, servicing and repairs across the UK. With HPC LASER you can now buy a CNC router with an almost infinite spindle speed assortment and a plethora of standard features and optional extras such as vacuum
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INDUSTRY ATA ENGINEERING – PROFILE ATA Engineering was established in 1963 and since the start has successfully supplied all types of woodworking machinery and routers to the British and European markets. The company has undergone a transformation since its management takeover by the current managing director Mark Whitbread. Retaining the staff and warehouse in Hemel Hempstead, Mark is looking to expand the machinery and tooling business to an ever-increasing woodworking industry. The growth of the construction industry and environmental protection is driving the demand for quality wooden materials. We are proud to be the sole UK supplier of the Castle Pocket router range. Now supplied with Bosch single phase motors, 3 Phase versions are also available for heavy duty prodcution; these tough machines are known for their durability, ease of operation and low maintenance. Machines are held in stock and can also be made to order. ATA are able to offer many types of power tools from JET bench mounted woodturning lathes to the NEW Trend cordless range. Our range of Laser cutters includes models for non-metallic materials. All available models can be viewed and demonstrated at our unit in Hemel Hempstead. Our warehouse contains a comprehensive range of over 3000 router cutters ready for next day delivery to suit most needs.
T: 01442 264411 www.ataeng.com
WE MAKE THE UK’S WIDEST RANGE OF STORAGE OPTIONS FOR THE PANELS AND JOINERY INDUSTRY
PROJECT RACKS DESIGNED AND 0$18)$&785(' 72 25'(5
HIGH QUALITY RACKING $9$,/$%/( )520 672&.
HIGHLY COMPETITIVE BESPOKE 5$&.6 $7 %8'*(7 35,&(6
WE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL CANTILEVER RACKING, PALLET RACKING,VERTICAL STORAGE AND PIGEON HOLE RACKING CALL US NOW FOR YOUR FREE SITE SURVEY ON 01543
www.stakapal.co.uk
278123 OR EMAIL sales@stakapal.co.uk
www.semcoltd.co.uk
www.redirack.co.uk
BETTY’S LANE, NORTON CANES, CANNOCK, STAFFORDSHIRE, WS11 9NZ
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Finishes shown: TopX Blue, Light Grey Acrylic, TopX Matt Grey Metallic, Dark Grey Matt, Cashmere Matt
unmistakeable gloss and matt surfaces bonded to the substrate of choice
Senoplast Acrylic High Gloss is recognised as a premium product combining the look of a solid surface acrylic without the cost. Senoplast TopX is a scratch resistant material that offers extreme resilience available in a full high gloss or super matt finish. Senoplast Acryl Glass 2mm scratch and scour resistant glosses are a coextruded material which, combined with high gloss levels delivers all the aesthetic advantages of real glass with the processing and practical advantages of Senoplast, also available in smooth super matt. Available in quantities from as little as just one board.
Contact us for more information. Century House, Premier Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9HF
T: +44 (0) 1484 658341 E: info@decorativepanels.co.uk www.decorativepanels.co.uk
E V E NT 13 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2022
Epicon Series: The Official Launch T
his September, be the first to see the newly extended Epicon 5-axis CNC
range in action at Weinig UK’s state-of-the-art showroom in Abingdon.
Watch live demonstrations on the Epicon 7235 and Epicon 7135 and explore the benefits of adaptable, 5-axis machining first hand. Keen to find out more? Connect with Weinig and experience all this and more from the 13-15 September 2022.
WATCH LIVE MACHINERY DEMONSTRATIONS
ENHANCE YOUR MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
MEET THE EXPERTS
GROW YOUR INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
EXPERIENCE THE LATEST INNOVATIONS
CONNECT WITH INDUSTRY
Exclusi
ve
sho off w ers va
A
EVEN TS ● FIRE DOOR MANUFACTURING
7 – 9 FEBRUARY 2023 ●
NESTING VS CUT, EDGE & DRILL 13 – 15 JUNE 2023
EVENTS
● EDGEBANDING TECHNOLOGY
17 – 19 OCTOBER 2023 ● WINDOW MANUFACTURING
18 – 20 APRIL 2023
Event opening hours: 10am - 4pm. Location: Weinig UK, Abingdon.
● THE SMALLER WORKSHOP
12 – 14 SEPTEMBER 2023
Event opening hours: 10am - 4pm. Location: Weinig UK, Abingdon.
To register your attendance and to book your dedicated arrival time please visit
weinig.co.uk
ila b l e
INDUSTRY CLOSE TO THE EDGE Mirka UK is expanding its accessories range with the introduction of the Edge Protector for its MirkaÒ DEROS 150mm. This new product has been designed to fit easily and will prolong the lifetime of the backing pad as it helps prevent damage to the periphery of the pad. In addition, the Edge Protector safeguards adjacent surfaces as it avoids scuffing or damaging when the user is sanding into corners and edges.
Peter Sartain, national sales manager Industrial for Mirka UK, says, “We are constantly listening to the feedback from our customers and have designed the DEROS 150mm Edge Protector to provide an effective guard against scuffing or damage when users need to sand right into corners and up to edges. We are confident that it will ensure the Mirka backing pad works better for longer.”
www.mirka.com
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Masterwood Beam Saw
Available in 4 Versions
MS 320/S MS430/S MS 320L / 430L
Scan to see more
(automated loading system)
T: +44(0) 1293 402700 E: office@masterwoodgb.co.uk www.masterwood.com
CASE STUDY
FastDry linear tunnel
HOMAG AND MAKOR GROUP ALLIANCE DELIVERS PREMIUM FINISHING SOLUTIONS With an extensive global production, sales and service network HOMAG is the world leader in woodworking machinery and software. In addition to producing its brand of technically advanced woodworking solutions, HOMAG is also the exclusive distributor of Makor’s market leading finishing equipment.
Makor product portfolio at a glance Profile sanders – a wide range of wood profiles can be sanded effortlessly with the Makor range of profile sanders, which are suitable for multiple applications. Panel denibbing for the removal of finishing imperfections, for example, can be performed easily.
Established in Italy in1968, the Makor Group has created systems for finishing any kind of profile on a wide range of materials including wood, MDF, glass, plastic, metal, chipboard, coated elements and special materials. Makor products are designed to the highest quality standards; they efficiently reduce process times in both small workshops and large industrial plants worldwide.
Electronic shaping machines – easy to use, they provide an essential start to obtaining a perfect finish of wooden mouldings. Profiles are read easily via laser sensors or CAD imports.
Innovation, automation and flexibility The Group’s founders, Mario Ceccuzzi and Luigi Scaperrotta, attribute the company’s continuous growth to its longstanding policy of developing quality products, undertaking comprehensive research and dialogue with its customers, and respecting the environment. Innovation, automation and flexibility are hallmarks that characterise Makor’s technology at every phase of the production process, from sanding through to painting, handling, drying and packing. Its products are developed to consistently meet the demands of its global customers.
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Spraying machines – Makor offers a full range of spraying machines, including automatic spraying machines/robot spraying, and spraying machines for strip components or panels – MDF, PVC and metal. Vacuum machines – designed to apply water based and UV acrylic paint products to furniture and building profiles, skirting boards and frames using vacuum system cycles. The paint product can be applied on three or four sides. Handling technology Automated line – Makor technology allows profile handling at production speeds of over 100 metres and up to 40 pcs/ minute Automated stacking – designed to transfer pieces from spraying machines onto drying trolleys. Innovative handling systems allow these models to manage profiles from 300mm to 6m long.
CASE STUDY HOMAG MAKOR 2 S-One automated spray system for doors
Automatic sorting – Makor offers a wide range of automatic sorting machines for the fast and stable handling of a variety of materials.
Roller coater – Makor roller coaters are designed to deliver precise doses of base coat, stain and top-coats to panel products.
Drying – An extensive range of efficient drying systems which use hot air, wind-jet, infrared light (IR) and near-infrared light (NIR) lamps, and gas to dry different finishes at varying rates. The drying technologies within the systems include air drying (3-10 mins), linear strip and panel drying (< 10 seconds), UV drying (< 3 seconds), throughfeed/vertical drying and tunnel/ oven drying (30 – 90 mins).
A strong and fruitful partnership The HOMAG Group has enjoyed a successful partnership with the Makor Group for five years. Remarking on this, Simon Brooks, HOMAG UK’s managing director said: “The Makor range of finishing products are a valuable extension of our product offering for our customers. The distribution partnership continues to be very beneficial for both parties, and HOMAG is delighted to be associated with such a long-standing market leading premium brand of finishing equipment.”
Protective film applicators – Makor’s protective film application systems include an easy-to-use film applicating machine which applies transparent protective film on finished surfaces of linear profiles, and an automatic wrapping machine for the spiral enveloping of long products. Electronic embossing machines – designed to make any kind of decorations on picture frames and different types of profiles made of wood, MDF, plastic and aluminium. Hot foil machine – developed for the application of golden or different kinds of foil on wood, PVC and metal picture frames, furniture mouldings and linear profiles in general. Edge processing solutions - for milling, sanding, coating, and sealing of panel edges of wood, MDF, chipboard, and agglomerated materials. Several machines are available and can match any kind of working requirement up to 100 m/ min.
If you would like a demonstration or more information on HOMAG’s machinery or software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424. T: 01332 856500 Email: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
Panel & Joinery Production -July / August 2022
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INDUSTRY JMS 3D PRO ENABLING JCK JOINERY/UNITY GROUP TO GROW AFTER 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS Serving the industry for over 150 years, JCK Joinery, now part of the Unity Group, decided to upgrade their in-house systems and JMS 3D Pro was the answer they were looking for. Over the years the business has changed a lot, so have their products, to the point where they now, currently concentrate on more doors and screens than anything else. In 2019 JCK started to look at solutions to replace their inhouse software. The MRP software they had was outdated, and although it did a lot of what they were looking for and extensive work had been made to modify it to fit their joinery door business and processes, it still didn’t do everything they needed. JCK could immediately see the benefit of having software like Joinerysoft’s JMS 3D Pro which is made specifically for the joinery/commercial door industry and in May 2019 decided to take the plunge and purchase, around the same time Louise Sheppard joined the company as Office Manager. In February 2020 JCK was taken over by Unity Doors and the Unity Group was formed, and at the heart of their systems was JMS 3D Pro. “We use it for quoting our clients, order acknowledgements, client drawings and sometimes cutting lists too”, says Louise. When purchasing the software they settled on 3 people on the system at the same time. With the introduction of JMS Pro every member of the office team can now do every job. Louise explains, “It’s made us a more multi-tasking office. Instead of one of us doing the quoting, another doing the drawings and a third doing the cutting lists, now all
of us can do every job. So I can now do the quotes, order acknowledgments, cutting lists, and client drawings - which was impossible before JMS Pro” Using the automatic calculations for U-Values on every quote saves them time and money that might have been spent on testing their individual products. JMS Pro has proved beneficial over their original software or using excel spreadsheets like many door companies do. Louise says, “I’d definitely say it’s worth having Joinerysoft, it has benefited us and saved us time from previous solutions”. Emma agrees, saying “It’s more user friendly to build a door. Previously in excel or our old system, yes you could build a door, but JMS 3D Pro is a lot more user friendly because you can see the elements you are changing.” It is also easier in JMS 3D Pro to train new people with accurate quoting achieved quickly. Louise explains,“When you’ve got new people coming in, or you’ve got people that need to learn a new task, I think you get the quotation ending up being more correct. Emma says, “It’s easier now with JMS 3D Pro - if you want to tweak a size, you just duplicate the lines”. Louise adds, “I think the whole process from quoting, sales, client drawings, cuttings lists etc. is quicker because once you’ve done the quote everything is there in the background already, so we don’t have to start a drawing outside of the system in CAD or something”. Emma agrees, “Making changes in CAD you’d have to do each individual door and door style separately, whereas with JMS 3D Pro you can make a change once at quote level and the changes cascade down to each individual item so the changes are already there for you!” Implementing software solutions in your business can save you time, make you more professional, profitable on every job and reduce wastage, making purchasing purpose designed software a no-brainer that can pay for itself within months. For more information about JMS 3D Pro contact Joinerysoft Ltd.
Joinerysoft T: 01608 643302 E: sales@joinerysoft.com www.joinerysoft.com Unity Doors Limited T: 0116 2912288 E: enquiries@jckjoinery.com www.unitydoors.com
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Laserscript
2022 range of CNC routers and laser cutters
HPC Laser are the UK’s leading suppliers of CO2 and fibre laser engraving and cutting machines and CNC routers. With over 6000 machines in service and UK based engineering support we are your ideal partners for affordable laser and router solutions.
CNC Routers ››
Bed sizes from 600mm x 900mm
››
3 and 4 axis designs
››
High power spindles with multispindle arrangements available
››
Rotary and linear tool changer arrangements available
››
Live machine demonstrations available at our Halifax showroom
››
Machines available from UK stock!
8’ x 4’ Bed from
£12,750 + VAT Finance available from £70 per week
›› Nationwide engineers offering delivery, installation, training, servicing and repairs
CO2 Lasers
HPC Laser Ltd. Castle Mills, Saddleworth Road, Halifax HX5 0RY
››
Bed sizes from A4 to 3000 x 2000mm
››
Laser powers up to 150W
››
Full range of optional accessories available
››
Ruida controllers compatible with industry leading software
››
UK sales, service and support
››
Machines available from UK stock!
››
Lifetime technical support on all machines
››
Over 6000 machines supplied
T: 01422 310800 E: sales@hpclaser.co.uk W: www.hpclaser.co.uk
Lathams’ amazing range of decorative surfaces brings the perfect finish to every project, every time.
ABET LAMINATI
As one of the UK’s largest independent distributors of panels and decorative surfaces, our huge stockholding of decors features matching laminates, melamines, veneers and edging from top brands like EGGER, Kronospan, FINSA and Abet Laminati, as well as exclusive collections from boutique European manufacturers such as XyloCleaf, Dekodur, Transformad, Decospan and more. These stunning surfaces are readily available together with an extensive range of core materials; familiar favourites as well as revolutionary products including Garnica Ultralight and the groundbreaking, sustainable Honext board.
EGGER
DEKODUR
Get products quickly via our nationwide distribution network, plus help and support from our team of experts who can guide you through the latest products, trends and regulations. Lathams truly offer a complete decor solution: great products, great service and expert advice.
Visit our new digital showroom to explore our decors in high resolution 3D, order product samples and get advice on your project.
lathamdigitalshowroom.co.uk
latham digital showroom
For more info: info@lathams.co.uk
D E C O S PA N
TRANSFORMAD
XYLOCLEAF
HUGE STOCK RANGE
14 UK&I DEPOTS
SAMPLING SERVICE
DIGITAL SHOWROOM