NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023
25 years of Lifting Innovation
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SIMPLE AND AUTOMATED PRODUCTION FROM ALL ANGLES gabbiani a2 is the innovative Angular Beam Saw that meets all the needs of both mass and batch 1 productions. The new operating units offer maximum performance in terms of productivity and cutting quality, while granting outstanding cleanliness of machine and work environment.
• SAW SET: In a few seconds, the "SAW-SET" device performs a quick and precise electronic setting of the blades. • ZERO-DUST SYSTEM: The automatic system of dust control curtains in sections operates along the cut to contain the sawdust and guarantee its complete evacuation. • FLEXCUT 1D: 2 pushers with completely independent stroke allows simultaneous processing of several bars with complex cutting patterns in very short cycle times.
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SCM UK Tel. +44 (0)115 9770044 scmuk@scmgroup.com - scmwood.com
CONTENTS FRONT COVER
18-19
26-27
16-17
EDITORS PICK 48
34-35
2-4 News 6-7 HOMAG And Heesemann Partnership Delivers Advanced Sanding Solutions 8 Wood Waste Heater Saves Money Whilst Helping Paint Dry 11 Blumble Bees 12-13 James Latham Turning a New Leaf 14 Visitor Registration For Materials & Finishes Show 2024 Is Live 16-17 Ecogate – Central Steps Up To A Greener Future 18-19 The Serica Collection – A Revolution In Interior Design 20-21 Mor From Weinig 24-25 Jason Baker Design Automates Its Finishing Process With HOMAG UK 26-27 Combilift - Celebrating 25 Years Of Lifting Innovation 29 Wood-Waste. Is It A Fuel Or A Waste? 30-31 Hranipex: Committed To Quality 32-33 Make Time For EGGER’s New Decorative Collection 34-35 IDS Unveils Finesse By Kronodesign® 36-37 SCM Opens The New Digital Home Of Woodworking Innovation 39 REDOCOL: Quality Brand for the Carpentry Trade 40 Quality Cabinet Hardware Solutions From IronmongeryDirect 42-43 Unilap Cuts Through Capacity Backlog With Vollmer 45 Ranheat - Is The “One Stop Shop” For Wood-Waste Burning Equipment? 46-47 Heaven Dowsett Integration of AXYZ Tailored Router Solutions 48 AFS Biomass 50-51 Ultima Furniture Turns To HOMAG
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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. 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.
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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NEWS LIGNA STRENGTHENS COMMUNICATIONS TEAM Silke Gathmann has taken on the role of press spokeswoman for LIGNA and will place an increased focus on media communications for the world’s leading trade fair for woodworking and wood processing in the future. The 45-year-old business economist is an experienced trade show communicator who was Deutsche Messe’s deputy corporate spokesperson until she joined LIGNA. Gathmann acquired her communications experience both through her ten years of PR work for HANNOVER MESSE and over the past eight years in corporate communications at Deutsche Messe, where she worked specifically in the areas of daily media relations and crisis communications. “We are delighted to have gained an experienced PR professional for LIGNA in Silke Gathmann. She has proven her expertise both in product PR and on the corporate communications side over many years and will be a valuable contact for the trade press and PR managers in the companies,” says Stephanie Wagner, Head of LIGNA at Deutsche Messe. Together with Kornelia Esch, who as LIGNA’s content manager focuses on social media activities, e-mail marketing and web content, Silke Gathmann forms LIGNA’s PR communications team and is the first point of contact for the media and PR officers at exhibiting companies.
For more information on LIGNA, visit www.ligna.de
MAKA PM-Modular 5-Axis CNC routers
The N E W benchmark!
5-Axis CNC machine centres
for stairs, windows, bespoke joinery and timber engineering!
MAKA Machinery UK Ltd
Tel: 01952-607700
C5 Horton Park IE., Hortonwood 7, TELFORD, Shropshire TF1 7GX
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Web: www.MAKA.com Email: info@makauk.com
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Scan the code to shop with us today *T&Cs: Prices shown are trade prices ex VAT. Prices correct at time of printing, please go online for up-to-date pricing. For next day delivery, order online by 9pm or via our contact centre by 8pm Sun-Fri (4pm Sat). Exclusions apply. See website for full delivery T&Cs.
NEWS COMBILIFT’S CB70E WINS ITALIAN TERMINAL AND LOGISTICS AWARD Combilift, the largest global manufacturer of multidirectional trucks, articulated forklifts and straddle carriers is thrilled to announce that the CombiCB70E has been honoured with the coveted Italian Terminal and Logistics Award. This prestigious accolade recognises the innovation in the operational field and its commitment to operator training and safety.
unwavering commitment to innovation, safety, and training in the material handling industry. The CB70E is a perfect example of our dedication to providing our customers with efficient, eco-friendly, and safe solutions.”
The Italian Terminal and Logistics Award is a significant industry recognition, presented annually to highlight the skills of operators in port, intermodal and logistics terminals both in Italy and abroad. The new Combi-CB70E is a further addition to Combilift’s ever growing range of electric models which offers powerful performance, extensive battery life and unrivalled ergonomics. This model, in the vibrant Combi-green livery, boasts the distinction of being the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market whilst also benefitting from multidirectional ability, enabling the versatile space saving handling of both long and bulky loads. Martin McVicar - CEO and Co-Founder of Combilift accepted the award alongside their EA Group partners and said: “We are honoured to receive the Italian Terminal and Logistics Award for the CB70E. This recognition validates our
Awards info:httos://gisexpo.it/itala/ https://combilift.com7/0coem/bi-cb
CS 860 & CSF 860. SIMPLE, FLEXIBLE, ABSOLUTE. Simple, Flexible and Absolute are three words that describe the CS 860
& CSF 860 from VOLLMER. Perfect for machining the sharpest clearance angles and sides, the new arrivals are easy to use and incredibly flexible. This gives you outstanding grinding results with optimal processes for all your circular saw blade requirements. The CS 860 & CSF 860 deliver the highest level of quality, productivity and user-friendliness with maximum flexibility.
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www.vollmer-group.com
Whatever your LEV demands
Extractly will tick all the boxes
Dust & Fume Filtration
Shredding & Briquetting
When it comes to dust and fume extraction, Extractly delivers the complete package...
Energy-Saving Technology
From the wide choice of filter types and technologies available, we source the most appropriate and cost-efficient system to meet your requirements and, from initial consultation and design, all the way through to installation and commissioning, we will be with you at every stage of the process. The wealth of practical experience within the company, together with an extensive range of proven products, allows Extractly to offer extraction systems which are individually tailored to customers’ specific needs. Whether you need a small mobile extractor, or a high-capacity modular filter unit, an energy-efficient shredder or briquette press, or perhaps a modern spray booth or enclosure… from simply adapting ductwork to suit a new machine installation, to commissioning a complete waste-to-energy system, Extractly’s experienced engineers deliver the optimum solution.
Extractly is the Master UK Distributor and Installer of the Ecogate® energy-saving system, and an Authorised Dealer and Installer of Nordfab Quick-Fit® ductwork
.co.uk LEV... extractly as it should be
Control Panel Engineering
Service, Maintenance & LEV Testing
Spray Booths, Enclosures and Curing Ovens
Extractly Limited has achieved SafeContractor Accreditation
Extractly Ltd info@extractly.co.uk
01924 520462
CASE STUDY THE HOMAG AND HEESEMANN PARTNERSHIP DELIVERS ADVANCED SANDING SOLUTIONS In 2022, HOMAG announced a landmark partnership with Karl Heesemann Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG. The deal guaranteed HOMAG customers access to the latest wide-belt sanding machine technology, along with a full support and spare parts service. The agreement, which sees all the sanding machines branded as ‘Heesemann’, brings together the very best in terms of people and sanding technology.
calibration function for intermediate lacquer, fine and veneer sanding of wood, wood-based materials and lacquered surfaces. The R-head provides precise calibration of wood and wood-based materials with high stock removal rates and roughening of surfaces for glue preparation. It also features a wear-resistant profiled contact roller to avoid the so-called ‘wash-out’ effect which is possible when sanding wood with large differences in density.
“From our perspective,” explains HOMAG UK managing director, Simon Brooks, “it means we can continue to offer both our existing and new wide-belt sanding customers the very best solutions for their particular sanding requirements. “Heesemann is a great company to work with and by merging the best of both companies, we can now offer first class Heesemann branded sanding machinery across the board; from entry level to industrial sanding solutions.”
HEESEMANN HSM COMPACT – YOUR ENTRY INTO AUTOMATED SANDING With a footprint of just 4.5 sq. m., the HSM Compact is a universal surface sanding machine for craft businesses. It is capable of handling applications ranging from calibration, intermediate veneer and lacquer sanding, structuring and cleaning panels, solid wood or veneered workpieces.
HEESEMANN SWT-100 ENTRY LEVEL WIDE-BELT SANDER For small to medium sized kitchen, bedroom, office and solid wood furniture manufacturers, the Heesemann SWT-100 provides a versatile sanding solution. It has a working width of 1,100 mm, and an electro-pneumatic pressure beam eps® to guarantee perfect sanding results. There are five models available in the SWT-100 range including the 114 C Performance and Advanced, and the twin-head 124 RC Standard, Performance and Advanced. The 2 in 1 C-head with eps® is a fine sanding head with a
Heesemann SWT-100
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Available with one or two heads, it is equipped with the patented CSD magnetic pressure beam as standard, a 15.6” touchscreen control display, automatic workpiece thickness setting and measuring, and stepless variable cutting speed control. The HSM Compact has a range of optional extras to enable machine customisation for specific needs. These include a vacuum clamping system, a powered finishing brush, and profiled contact rollers made of steel and rubberised in different Shore hardness (a measure of the resistance a material has to indentation).
CASE STUDY
HSM.2 New Edition
HEESEMANN HSM NEW EDITION The HSM New Edition is an automatic surface sanding machine designed for small and medium-sized craft and industrial companies. In its standard configurations it has either two, three or four units to handle effect sanding, cross sanding, lacquer or high-gloss sanding for panels, solid wood or veneered workpieces. The New Edition model features a disc brush unit (DB-S) which produces a flawless surface. It consists of five satellites (six for a sanding width of 1,600 mm) with each satellite holding two 150 mm diameter disc brushes. The direction and speed of rotation of the satellites and discs can be adjusted independently for maximum flexibility and performance. The DB-S brush unit enables creative finishes to be achieved such as a ‘vintage’ look, random depressions to create a ‘planed’ appearance or a ‘sawed’ finish. As with all Heesemann sanders, it is controlled via an industrial PC touchscreen.
HEESEMANN HSM .2/.3 SURFACE SANDING MACHINE The HSM series offers the ideal machine for handcraft businesses, and is particularly relevant for carpenters and interior designers. Available in predefined standard configurations, it is equipped with either two or three units. Whether for effect sanding, cross sanding or lacquer and high-gloss sanding of panels, solid wood or veneered workpieces, it is a powerful and versatile machine. Both variants have a working width of 1,300 mm and a variable feed speed of some 3 -15 m/min. In conclusion Simon Brooks said: “We are delighted to be working with Heesemann. Their professional, yet friendly approach matches the culture created here at HOMAG. The arrangement enables us to provide high quality sanding solutions for our customers in the UK and Ireland. It is great to have their knowledge and expertise supporting us in this specialist market sector.” For a demonstration or more information on the range of Heesemann wide-belt sanders or any HOMAG machinery and software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424. T: 01332 856500 E: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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CASE STUDY WOOD WASTE HEATER SAVES MONEY WHILST HELPING PAINT DRY A construction company for creative industries has purchased a wood waste heater, to reduce its waste disposal costs and keep its workshop warm and functional during the winter months. Take 1 Scenic, based in Greater Manchester, manufactures scenery, sets and stages for TV, film and theatre. Its team of carpenters, scenic painters, welders and prop-makers work at the company’s head office in Stalybridge. The company uses a lot of wood in its production, and whilst the business tries hard to minimise its wood waste, there is inevitably a large amount created. When Director, Carl Heston joined the business a few years ago, he was surprised to find Take 1 Scenic didn’t have a wood waste heater. After doing some research and speaking with Kurt Cockroft at Wood Waste Technology, the company ordered a WT15 heater that Wood Waste Technology’s experienced engineers installed. The investment has made many positive differences to the business. The wood waste heater keeps the workshop warm, even on really cold days, which means the business is saving money by not having to use its wall-mounted directional gas burners. The business is also saving money on recycling costs. Take 1 has always been conscious of the environmental impact of the industry, and in the past its wood waste was transported to recycling centres for disposal. The company is now saving money on the labour, transport and recycling costs incurred in that process. Carl explains: “We realised that purchasing a wood waste heater could reduce our wood waste disposal costs whilst also providing free heating for the workshop. The cold environment also caused issues with production, for example, if the wood got damp or if it was too cold for the paint to dry - so the wood waste heater has also helped us work more efficiently. “ Managing Director of Wood Waste Technology, Kurt Cockroft says, “We’re delighted that the wood waste heater is helping Take 1 Scenic reduce its waste disposal bills and get free heating in the workshop. We have many event and exhibition companies interested in wood waste heaters due to the amount of waste wood these industries naturally create.” Wood Waste Technology’s years of expertise in wood waste solutions have helped many companies reduce their waste disposal and heating costs. As well as offering site survey, design, manufacture, installation and on-going maintenance for new units, the company also services all types of wood waste heaters and supplies genuine spares up to 60% cheaper than other suppliers. In addition, Wood Waste Technology is the UK official distributor for Gross Apparatebau GmbH, a German manufacturer of dependable, precision engineered shredders and briquetters, available in various size and specifications to suit all business applications.
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T: 01785 250400 www.woodwastetechnology.com www.grossuk.co.uk
The brand new Cube 3 compact four-sided planer is more affordable than ever thanks to Weinig’s exclusive CUBE Rental Plan.
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INDUSTRY OUR BLUMBLE BEES Almost 90% of wild plants and 75% of global crops rely on bee pollination. Bees pollinate many of the crops used in animal feed, wild trees and flowers. An amazing one in every three mouthfuls of our food depends on these pollinators. A few months ago, Blum took another step on their sustainability journey, with the initial installation of three beehives in the Blum garden, swiftly followed by seven more, making ten in all. Through this new addition, Blum hope to support the environment and wildlife in the area, whilst also producing delicious honey in the process. The bee hives were installed by Home Farm MK on a sunny morning in June. An interesting fact is that, when they come to a new place, navigator bees will venture out to examine their new surroundings before communicating what they’ve discovered to the rest of the hive. As the hives were put in place, there were already a few circling. Our warehouse manager, Raj Tanna, commented on this new sustainability initiative, saying: “We are thrilled about the launch of our ten bee hives, which could potentially house a buzzing half a million bees! Doing our part for the environment, we are also looking forward to harvesting our own delicious Blumble honey. Our beehives are managed by a local company intent on helping make the world a more sustainable place.”
T: 01908 285700 www.blum.com
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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FEATURE TURNING A NEW LEAF JAMES LATHAM INTRODUCES GARNICA’S REVOLUTIONARY REINFORCED PLYWOOD RANGE TO THE UK AND IRELAND MARKETS. James Latham, one of the UK’s leading independent distributors of timber, panels, and décors, adds Garnica’s innovative Reinforced range to its fast-growing premium plywood portfolio. Developed in response to the recent, worldwide shortages of Russian birch plywood, Garnica Reinforced is a game-changer, finally offering a truly viable alternative. Crucially, the Reinforced product alternates leaves of eucalyptus with Garnica’s signature poplar plies, producing near-identical levels of strength, uniformity, and workability in the finished panel. This means it can be readily substituted when birch is unavailable, with no compromise on quality. This makes the material suitable for a wide variety of residential, commercial, and retail applications, including: panelling, indoor furniture, kitchen cabinets, shows and exhibitions, shopfitting, and DIY. Available in two distinctive looks, the lighter-hued Reinforced Poplar or the attractive pinkish-toned Reinforced Maple, the former is best suited for painting or covering, whilst the latter, with its unique, visually-striking ‘flame pattern’ grain, is perfect for decorative purposes. Both possess a multi-layer edge, which can be sanded and polished for an ultra-smooth finish, making it ideal for applications requiring visible edging. Similar to Garnica’s other plywood products, Reinforced is manufactured to achieve the highest degree of finesse in a controlled environment, only using sustainable timber sourced from officially certified European forests. Exclusive to James Latham in the UK and Ireland, the introduction of Garnica Reinforced highlights the distributor’s commitment to offering innovative solutions to overcome its customers’ contemporary challenges. Stuart Devoil, Group Head of Marketing at James Latham says, “Garnica Reinforced has disrupted the plywood market and fills the significant gap left by the sudden shortage of Russian birch ply following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war last year. With near-identical performance qualities and a unique elegance, all of its own, we expect this product range to be very popular amongst the interior, fit out, and furniture-making community, and are already seeing sample enquiries flooding in from those looking for birch alternatives at a similar price point.” Produced in a standard sheet size of 2440 x 1220 and a wide array of thicknesses, ranging from 5-17 plies, it’s available in the UK and Ireland, available through James Latham’s network of 14 depots.
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FEATURE
To find out more about the Garnica Reinforced Plywood range and its remarkable features: www.lathamtimber.co.uk/products/panels/plywood/poplar-plywood/garnica-reinforced-plywood To discover James Latham and its wide range of materials: www.lathamtimber.co.uk/
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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EVENT VISITOR REGISTRATION FOR MATERIALS & FINISHES SHOW 2024 IS LIVE THE UK’S TRADE SHOW FOR THE FURNITURE MANUFACTURING & JOINERY INDUSTRIES Organisers of Materials & Finishes Show (formerly W Exhibition) have announced that visitor registration for the relaunched UK trade show for the furniture manufacturing and joinery industries is now live! The event, which has over 50 years of heritage, returns to the NEC in its new and reinvigorated format from May 19 22, 2024. Visitors can register to attend here. Materials & Finishes Show, which is part of Montgomery Group’s global event portfolio, will bring the UK’s furniture manufacturing and joinery industries together for the first time since 2018 when it returns next May, having undergone an extensive period of research and development.
Visitors will be able to benefit from over 40 hours of CPD certified learning content which will be delivered on the new seminar theatre. Visitors can expect to attend sessions covering the latest industry topics, delivered from industry, experts from dust extraction and sustainability, through to content designed to help the drive more leads and operate more efficiently. Materials & Finishes Show attracts buyers from every corner of the industry, from furniture and joinery manufacturers and designers right through to retailers, the KBB market, carpenters, joiners and worktop fabricators.
The trade show is the primary platform for carpenters, joiners, machinists and installers to see running woodwork and stone machinery, the latest materials, components, software, tools and innovations for the woodworking sector. Visitors will have the opportunity to see running machinery together with components, materials, technology and services for the manufacturing and processing phases of materials, alongside the latest products and developments for finishes at the event. The stellar lineup for the event includes the likes of RJ Woodworking Machinery, Vertogen, AMS/ Wadkin Bursgreen, Hanex, Hranpiex, Rubio Monocoat and Mundy Veneer, with new brands joining the lineup weekly. Alongside networking with the entire industry under one roof, visitors to Materials & Finishes Show will be able to see thousands of the latest products on the UK market and speak directly to leading manufacturers & suppliers for the woodworking sector. A new live demonstration zone will allow visitors to see many of these products in action for the first time. Materials & Finishes Show event director, David Todd said: “The countdown to Materials & Finishes Show is officially on and we are delighted to announce the visitor registration is now live. This is the first time that the UK furniture manufacturing and joinery industry will have had the opportunity to come together since 2018, which presents a huge opportunity to see all of the latest developments in products and processes that have progressed in this time. “Alongside this, we have been working hard behind the scenes to develop new and exciting features that will add real value to visitors who make a trip to Materials & Finishes Show, from the new CPD certified learning programme through to our live demonstration area. We’re excited to make further announcements about the new features and partnerships over the coming weeks.”
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T: 07871544330 E: jess.hardisty@montgomerygroup.com
Light up your world with Hranipex Say goodbye to dull and boring lighting, and hello to a brighter and more beautiful world with Hranipex LED lights. Upgrade your furniture today and see the difference our lights can make! Visit us at hranipex.co.uk, contact us at uk-hranipex@hranipex.com, or +44 (0) 121 767 9180.
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INDUSTRY
Operations director Kyle Archbold interrogating real-time system performance data on the highly intelligent Ecogate greenBOX® Nxt controller which has the capacity to monitor and control an extraction system with multiple main fans and up to 72 individual workstations.
CENTRAL STEPS UP TO A GREENER FUTURE Extractly Ltd. have recently completed an extraction system upgrade for Derbyshire-based Central Joinery Group, including a new 55kW Nederman main fan, as well as retrofitting Ecogate® energy-saving equipment throughout the factory. Established 30 years ago, Central Joinery now operates two purpose-built manufacturing facilities and, although the company has kept abreast of the latest technology and manufacturing methods over the years, it has also managed to maintain its traditional craftsmanship standards. The company has developed an enviable reputation for the highquality bespoke joinery and staircases it manufactures and, over the last decade or so, has gained industry accolades from some of the UK’s leading housebuilders. At the company’s head office in Swadlincote, an ageing 55kW main fan was no longer working as effectively as it once did and, for operations director Kyle Archbold, the extraction system’s efficiency was beginning to be a cause for concern, as Extractly’s sales director, Jake Oldfield, explained: “Extractly had been recommended to Kyle by another customer where we’d recently commissioned the installation of 3 new fans in conjunction with the installation of Ecogate® ‘on-demand’ extraction technology. Kyle invited us to undertake a review of the current extraction system at Central Joinery and, as suspected, the old fan was indeed ready for replacement. The original 55kW fan was specified and installed to ensure sufficient capacity would be available to meet the factory’s maximum demand for extraction when all the woodworking machines on that line were operating and producing dust waste at the same time – and this was still the rationale for replacing the fan with a new Nederman 55kW fan. In addition, the factory also runs two high-speed CNC machines, with extraction provided via two separate 18.5kW fans.”
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As instructed by the greenBOX® Nxt controller, Ecogate® Power MASTER Variable Speed Drive units adjust fan speed to exactly match extraction demand on each of the 3 lines. After carrying out an energy survey at Central Joinery it was easy for Jake Oldfield to demonstrate the huge cost savings that could be achieved if Ecogate® technology was installed across the factory. The old 55kW fan had been running at full power, all day, every day, ever since it was installed; as
INDUSTRY were the two smaller fans. With Ecogate® controlling the system, extraction fans run only when required, and run at the optimum speed required to deliver the exact extraction volume required. “There was definitely scope for savings to be made on the cost of extraction for the two CNC machines” says Jake Oldfield, “but the biggest savings would be achieved by installing automatic motorised Ecogate® dampers in the ductwork serving each individual machine.” Because of the bespoke nature of the work carried out at Central Joinery, the equipment list includes a number of specialist machines that are used on a regular basis, although only for short periods at a time, along with other items of equipment that are required for essential operations, but are only used infrequently. “The varied use of machinery at Central Joinery completely negates the need for extraction to operate continuously at full power”, Jake explains: “With Ecogate® technology controlling the system, the fans run at the maximum speed necessary to extract efficiently, but only from machines that are in operation at any one time.” It’s clear to see that this would reduce electricity costs but, because of the laws of physics (the Fan Affinity Laws), the actual savings are disproportionately high — reducing the fan running speed by just 20% achieves a 49% reduction in the electricity needed to power the motor.
Extractly Ltd retrofitted over 20 Ecogate® motorised dampers into the existing ductwork system at Central Joinery.
Extractly supplied and installed a new 55kW Nederman main fan at Central Joinery Group’s head office at Swadlincote.
Ecogate® motorised dampers, fitted into the ductwork serving each individual machine, open and close automatically as machines come on or off-line.
Effectively, for a company like Central Joinery, where all machines are rarely, if ever, in use at the same time, the fans will only use a fraction of the electricity consumed by running a fan continuously at full power. Extractly conservatively predict that the savings Central Joinery will make with Ecogate® installed should cover the cost of the capital investment in just 16 months. “We’ve yet to receive an electricity bill since the installation was completed” says Kyle Archbold, “but just by walking into the factory it’s obvious that the system is running slower, less often, and more efficiently — the noise level has dropped dramatically now the fan isn’t running continuously, and the more efficient extraction gives us reassurance that the workspace is a clean and much safer environment for our employees.”
T: 01924 520462 E: info@extractly.co.uk www.extractly.co.uk
Neal Chambers, production manager at Central Joinery, concurred wholeheartedly with the noise reduction: “I’ve got to admit I was sceptical about the benefits claimed by Ecogate but, in the days following the installation, the factory was so much quieter I had to go and check everyone was still working!” The benefits for Central Joinery don’t stop with the cost savings and noise reduction; reducing fan speeds causes less wear and tear on motors and filter media, and Extractly have also calculated that the predicted energy savings equate to an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of over 26 tonnes — a big step towards reducing Central Joinery’s carbon footprint.
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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FEATURE DECORATIVE PANELS PRESENTS: THE SERICA COLLECTION A REVOLUTION IN INTERIOR DESIGN Decorative Panels’ SERICA Collection is a breath of fresh air. Intricately crafted to cater to an extensive array of applications, spanning from kitchens and bathrooms to various other settings such as homes, offices, and retail spaces, the SERICA Collection serves as a reminder that interior design transcends aesthetics. It is about creating spaces that elevate the human experience. Named after the Latin word for “silky,” the SERICA Collection encapsulates the essence of opulence and sophistication. It is a collection that exudes timeless elegance while offering unparalleled comfort - a fusion of aesthetics and functionality that is perfect for the modern home. Incredibly durable, featuring innovative anti-scratch and anti-fingerprint technology, SERICA is meticulously crafted to envelop a wide spectrum of furnishings, catering to homes, offices, retail spaces, and proving invaluable for exhibition contractors and specialised projects alike. In comparison to its counterparts, SERICA raises the bar within its industry, notably in its ground-breaking utilisation of super matt technology. A decorative surface collection of super-matt, silky smooth finishes, SERICA is designed to cover all types of furnishings. The SERICA Collection offers a surface that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly tactile, inviting you to touch and feel its luxurious texture. The palette of solid colours within the SERICA collection knows no bounds, allowing for limitless creative combinations. SERICA offers an unprecedented level of design freedom, empowering creators to explore surfaces and threedimensional concepts to their fullest potential.
Embrace the soothing essence of nature with SERICA’s serene Sage Green. For those looking to infuse their homes with a sense of calm and serenity. This refreshing shade invites the outdoors in, creating an oasis of peace within your living space - perfect for crafting a tranquil retreat where you can unwind and rejuvenate. Or ignite your passion for autumn with Rusty Red. Infused with warmth and a dash of vintage charm, Rusty Red gives your interiors a welcoming ambiance. Experience a refreshing departure from the greys and beiges that once dominated your living spaces. These vibrant hues offer the ideal backdrop for cultivating an ambiance that promotes both relaxation and productivity, capable of either igniting action or instilling tranquillity. The introduction of the New Serica colour palette will undoubtedly define the essence of your interior. Decorative Panels always prioritise innovation in design, consistently pushing the boundaries with ongoing advancements in innovative surface textures and finishes. The most recent additions to the Serica Collection, featured in the dp-specialist range, mirror the latest trends in contemporary design. Book a visit to the dp-group Marketing Suite where the SERICA Collection is on display and keep looking out for more new release from Decorative Panels; innovative designs are coming out all the time.
To meet the driving demand for matt unicolours, Decorative Panels’ SERICA Collection is constantly evolving with new colours being introduced on a frequent basis. These new additions are following the trend of warmer shades, bringing a new energy to the Collection. As such, as part of Decorative Panels’ Specialist range, we are thrilled to introduce 3 new colours to our SERICA Collection: Caramel, Sage Green, Rusty Red. These mesmerising hues will help transform your decor game and infuse your surroundings with warmth, tranquillity, and a touch of rustic charm. A decorative surface collection of super-matt, silky smooth finishes, SERICA is designed to cover all types of furnishings in homes, offices, and retail environments. The introduction of Caramel, Sage Green, and Rusty Red to the SERICA Collection offers homeowners an opportunity to elevate their living spaces to new heights of style and comfort. Exude timeless elegance with a touch of Caramel. Caramel, the embodiment of understated elegance, brings a sense of cosiness and luxury to any room. Its rich, inviting tones effortlessly complement a wide range of interior styles, making it a top choice for those seeking a timeless and refined ambiance.
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Sage Green
FEATURE
Rusty Red
Camel with Turin Walnut
To order your free sample today call Decorative Panels Lamination: T: 01484 658341 www.decorativepanels.co.uk
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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FEATURE MOR FROM WEINIG Weinig UK is on something of a roll with its moulder sales. Only recently, we brought you news of a full factory installation at Premier Forest Products’ Merlwood Timber site in Haverfordwest and now, Welshpool-based Morland Profiles has taken delivery of a fully-equipped Weinig Powermat 1500 as part of a £1.2m capital expenditure program. It begs the question, what is it that’s making the Powermat 1500 the go-to moulder for medium and large-scale producers like these? We put this question and more to Robin Hawkins, Operations Director at Morland Profiles. “Morland manufacture timber based fit-out products ideally suited for use in construction, modular buildings, caravans, boat building and much more,” explains Robin. “We produce laminated panels, lightweight panels, plywood and laminated wood – any colour you want – as well as skirting, architrave and mouldings for leisure and construction. These elements can then be combined into kits for specific sectors, such as certified fire door sets or lightweight door sets. What makes Moorland Profiles unique is that you don’t have to order a thousand units at a time. A customer can go on our website, order a single board and have it delivered.” Coupled with increased demand for Morland doors, it’s this pick and pack service that has resulted in the company needing to adapt its approach to manufacturing. “It’s a growing part of our business. Our batch sizes have got a lot smaller and have become on demand products. We needed a moulder that could keep up with our flexible and fast offering and future proof our business in other ways, too.” Robin Hawkins Robin explains, “We have the same problem as everyone else in our industry: a lack of skilled labour. Finding people who can set using shims and spanners is difficult. Weinig’s software allows us to build up a library of files that can be sent directly to the machine. This means we are less reliant on operator skills and because everything is held as data, we can call up any profile and be in production much quicker. If an operator leaves, it’s easy for a new one to take over without time-intensive training.” The Powermat 1500 is a remarkably versatile and adaptable moulder. Equipped with Weinig’s Comfort Set operating concept, all set-up is performed wrench-free or with the assistance of just a couple of tools, resulting in fast set-up times. Powerlock toolholders make for faster, safer tool changes, while PowerCom Plus profile and data management software means as many as 10,000 profile data sets can be calculated, saved and recalled at the touch of a button. “We now produce over 4,000 different profiles,” confirms Robin. “Some are easy but it’s on the really difficult ones, which tend to be the smaller batches, that we’ve really seen the benefit. I would guess our set-up time on these has been reduced by something like 60%.” Digital adjustment handles, Powermat 1500
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FEATURE The tool arrangement on the Powermat 1500-026 can include up to 10 spindles ranging in power from 11kW to 30kW – two horizontal top spindles, two horizontal bottom spindles, two vertical right spindles and two vertical left spindles. All provide variable speeds between 4,000-12,000 rpm. Moorland Profiles opted to omit the first spindle but added in a universal spindle option. “We went for the universal spindle because it gave us the ability to create sculpted profiles. Having CNC settings has reduced our set-up times massively, so we are as close as we can get to having batch-size-one on a free-feed line. “There’s also a remote control at the end of the machine for the universal spindle which is set up in the tool room. The profile is sent to the control on the machine and the information is relayed to the positioning motors. The universal spindle positions automatically to the required profile set . The remote control allows the operator to monitor the set up.” With a variable feed speed of 5-40 m/min, it means even when running at higher feed speeds, Robin is guaranteed a fine finish as well as increased production, even when running the larger profiles of 230mm wide and 160mm high that the Powermat 1500 can handle. “We’ve seen a 40% increase in the production of our profiles over the last year and the majority of that went through the moulder. Having that additional resource has made manufacturing a lot easier. To get the same results on a manual machine, we’d have to put on a night shift. “We bought the machine at just the right time. We knew that batch sizes were going down – we could see that trend a long way off – and that was the main reason for buying the Powermat. We managed to get it installed and get the guys trained up on it so we were ready to move at just the right time.
Weinig moulder A £1.2m capital expenditure program has resulted in Moorland Profiles changing many of its process and that’s increased manufacturing efficiency across the board. The new moulder has made a significant contribution and, although Robin admits nobody likes change, his operators have taken to it easily: “The machine and its operating software is pretty straightforward to use,” he says. “We had some training on site as well as at Weinig UK and a couple of months later, we had some top up training. The software is very similar to what we’ve used on our CNC’s and edgebanders – it’s very straightforward. It is a different way of working but we have a really good team. They adapted to it quickly.” Robin adds, “As business grows, replacing two older Weinig moulders with similar CNC-set machines is a high priority. There’s no doubt about it, it’s made enough of a difference for us to be sure it was the right choice.”
“We are now producing about 120 kilometres of mouldings per week and that could easily increase to 200 kilometres. Before we got the new Powermat, we were only able to produce 60 kilometres.”
Weinig moulder infeed
T: 01235 557600 www.weinig.co.uk
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Our flexible fully 360° indexable vacuum cups are the most powerful upgrade available for your CNC machine. Rotate to fit the shape of your work piece easily. Tooltec vacuum cups feature the unrivalled powerful vortex acceleration technology. Available in full half and quarter.
FROM PRACTICE TO PRACTITIONERS Our two new catalogues will be published in September! In these reference books you will find our entire product range and numerous inspirations for your new projects. Of course, they are also available digitally in the download centre of our online shop. For further information, go to www.ostermann.eu and type in #catalogues
SERVICE, DIVERSITY AND SPEED - THAT IS OSTERMANN.
www.ostermann.eu
CASE STUDY JASON BAKER DESIGN AUTOMATES ITS FINISHING PROCESS WITH MAKOR START ONE FROM HOMAG UK Edinburgh based architectural interior manufacturers and one of Scotland’s largest independent joinery manufacturers, Jason Baker Design, has recently purchased a Makor Start One spraying machine from HOMAG UK. The investment was made to increase the company’s throughput, improve the quality of its finish, and enhance the health and safety of its employees. “We design and manufacture a wide variety of joinery products for the commercial market,” explains Jason Baker, managing director at Jason Baker Design. He continues, “Like most manufacturers in our industry, we employ a French polisher trained in all elements of finishing – from shellacbased French polishing to spraying of synthetic coatings. Working in our spray shop, he would apply a wide variety of finishes by hand across a huge range of products. “With the consistent growth of the business, we recognised that we probably needed at least one or two more polishers to keep up with demand, but we didn’t have the space for these additional craftsmen. Consequently, we decided to evaluate automating some of our finishing processes by introducing a spraying machine to our plant. “Initial research suggested there were three main suppliers in the market, one of which was HOMAG UK. We have invested heavily in HOMAG woodworking machinery over the past five years and have found the quality of the equipment and the aftersales support first class. Accordingly, our first port of call was to speak to HOMAG before reaching out to the other two companies.” THE DECISION TO INVEST IN THE MAKOR START ONE “Once we had gathered all the information, it was clear that the compact nature of the Makor Start One established it as the front runner for our 5000 sq. ft. factory. HOMAG then arranged for us to visit a manufacturer based in Huddersfield that was already operating this particular Makor spraying machine. “Seeing the Start One in action was really useful, particularly as we were able to talk to the operator who used the machine on a daily basis. With what we learned from this visit it quickly became apparent that the Makor Start One was a good fit for our business and so we placed the order with HOMAG UK. “It was delivered in May this year (2023) and installed by HOMAG’s partner in Scotland, AWMS who did a great job. The commissioning and training were conducted by a Makor engineer who spent a week with us getting everything up and running. “As it was a completely new system for us, it took a little time to get accustomed to it. Once we’d set it up a few times, however, we were soon fully operational and it’s a pretty simple machine to use.”
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GOVERNMENT FUNDING “Due to the value of the machine, we qualified for a Digital Development Loan from the Scottish Government. This interest-free loan facility is aimed at SMEs wanting to improve their digital capabilities and/or processes. Our goal, to automate the company’s finishing process, was a very good case study for them so once we’d completed the application, it was a quick and efficient procedure to obtain the funding. “We borrowed one hundred per cent of the value of the machine at zero per cent over five years. In terms of interest alone, we estimate this will save us around £20,000 over the period of the loan, making it a very worthwhile exercise.” BUSINESS BENEFITS ALREADY CLEAR TO SEE “When we embarked on this project, we had three clear objectives we wanted to achieve with the automated spraying solution: • Increase capacity of our finishing process without additional employees • Improve the finish quality of all our products • Enhance the health and safety of our employees “The Makor Start One has delivered on every front. The speed and efficiency of the Start One is truly amazing, yet we have not had to employ more staff. Despite the increase in throughput, the quality of finish is second to none because the spraying area is a totally controllable enclosed environment. Being an enclosed area means our staff are not subjected to lacquer or solvent fumes, making it a much safer and healthier work environment. “Although it is early days, results so far indicate that the machine is on target to pay for itself within three years which is excellent. This will help us grow the business from its current turnover of £1.5 million as we now have the capacity to meet the ever-increasing demand for our products. “Having the service and support from HOMAG UK takes a weight off our shoulders. They are a great partner to work with; all the people are friendly, professional and eager to help, and the machinery is technically advanced and totally reliable,” concludes Baker. If you would like more information or a demonstration of the Makor or HOMAG machinery and software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
T: 01332 856500 E: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
CASE STUDY
Jason Baker with the Makor S-One.
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FRONT COVER CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF LIFTING INNOVATION “MY THANKS TO EVERYONE AT COMBILIFT FOR INVITING ME TO THIS INFORMATIVE AND MEMORABLE EVENT” - CLARE HOLLISTER (PUBLISHER PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION) Combilift welcomed hundreds of people from various continents to its global HQ and manufacturing facility in Monaghan at the end of September to celebrate the company’s 25th anniversary. The event was the culmination of a number of product launches throughout 2023 to mark this milestone, which is a remarkable achievement for a company that started with just a handful of – albeit highly skilled and motivated employees – working from a small factory in a village in rural Monaghan. There are now around 800 employees at the state of the art 46,000 m² manufacturing facility situated on the edge of Monaghan Town, more than a 100 of whom have been with the company for 15 years or more. Visitors were taken on extensive factory tours, where they could see the various stages of product manufacturing from initial CAD design and the warehouse layout service, to welding and paint spraying, through to final assembly and pre-delivery inspection. Currently 180 units roll off the production lines each week and are shipped to customers in over 85 countries.
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There was also the opportunity to get an insight into the reasons behind Combilift’s global success with a Q&A with Combilift’s CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar. “In the first year we manufactured 18 units and all but one were exported – from the outset we aimed to be major exporters,” said Martin. “We have since sold more than 80,000 units, most of which are still in operation today. Innovation and R&D are in our DNA. We invest seven per cent of annual turnover in research and development. Partly because of this, our portfolio has expanded significantly over the past 25 years and there are now around 25 different product families. Products are all designed around specific needs of the customers and solving their challenges.” Five new products were launched this year, and the scope of these illustrates Combilift’s ambitions, not just geographically but also when it comes to entering new business sectors. The new Combi-LC Load Carrier model, which was unveiled during the factory tours, signalled a move into the offshore wind sector. It was developed in collaboration with Siemens
FRONT COVER Gamesa, one of the world’s largest offshore suppliers, and allows the safe and secure transportation of wind turbine blades and towers – some as long as 115m and weighing 70t, from production to storage locations. More in line with the requirements of companies in the panel, joinery and timber industries are two models which were launched earlier this year, both of which are based on the original Combi-CB compact counterbalance design multidirectional forklift. The Combi-CUBE incorporates features that offer a high level of driver comfort - the driver’s position in the centre of the cab for instance offers generous room and excellent all-round visibility. The optional unique Dynamic 360 Steering enables seamless directional change, making this model the most manoeuvrable counterbalance forklift on the market. The Combi-CB70E is the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market whilst benefitting from multidirectional ability, enabling versatile space saving handling of long and bulky loads, even in very confined spaces. It features the optional new Auto Swivel Seat, which automatically engages and swivels the seat and armrest 15° to the right or left to accord with the direction of travel selected by the operator reducing driver strain, particularly when reversing.
Further new developments were the introduction of the Combilift-AGT, Combilift’s first autonomous model, and a telematics software system Combi-Connect. This fleet management system enables real-time and comprehensive information on fleet performance, including location tracking, usage analytics and maintenance alerts. Having enjoyed unparalleled success in the materials handling sector for the last quarter of a century, what does Martin McVicar envisage for the future? One certainty is that whatever the level of expansion, the company will remain firmly rooted in its home area of Monaghan, where it has deep ties with the local community. As for growth, Martin says: “we produced 10,000 units this year, and we aim to double these numbers every five years, so by 2028 we are expecting to build 20,000 units. And as for my future - I have committed to give 50 years to Combilift and I am only half way there, so God willing I hope to be here 25 years from now. And it would be nice to think that one or more of my three sons might be involved the business in future!”
www.combilift.com
Panel & Joinery Production - November / December 2023
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INDUSTRY WOOD-WASTE. IS IT A FUEL OR A WASTE? Landfill Tax, as its name suggests, is a government tax, paid to the government to discourage sending material that could be re-cycled or used for other purposes, to be buried in holes in the ground. (landfill)
Some companies insist that a separate skip is used for dust and in some cases the dust must be sealed in plastic bags. This is because some landfill sites are exposed, and loose dust would blow away.
Some parts of the country have run out of landfill sites. Domestic and industrial waste “incinerators” are emotive and produce “not in my back yard” feelings and protests. We all know we need them but not near me thank you.
For cost reasons you don’t want the dust to get wet or it’s £102.10 landfill tax to get rid of water!!!!
Chris Franklin MD at Ranheat Engineering Ltd. a leading UK manufacturer of wood combustion equipment-continues his series of articles for Panel & Joinery Production. This issue he looks at how Governments use carrot and stick tactics on the UK wood working Industry. The carrot was definitely the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive or RHI. This scheme paid companies a tariff per kW hour that the company used its wood-waste to produce energy for space heating and process heat. The scheme ran for 10 years (plus a Covid extension) but has now closed. Another carrot is high conventional energy prices and decarbonation of conventional fossil fuels. THE STICK IS LANDFILL TAX. Most wood machining operations produce wood-waste either in the form of extracted dust from wood working machinery or as off-cuts of either natural timber or manmade boards such as Chipboard MFC and MDF. All types of wood-waste being sent to landfill is taxed at the highest rate. From April 2023 this is £102.10. It is generally accepted that to dump waste at a landfill site averages at around £100.00 per tonne. Plus, Landfill tax to the Government of £102.10. Based on this a skip containing 3 tonnes of wood-waste will be charged around £600 to go to landfill.
Most wood waste however goes to a sorting centre where the usable wood can be separated and shredded for use as Biomass. This causes problems with definitions as it left the wood working company as a waste, but the sorting centre has turned it into fuel. Industrial wood-waste has a high energy value. Man made boards generally have a low moisture content and hence high calorific value. A generally accepted “yield” on industrial wood-waste is 3,200 kW hours per tonne (this includes a reduction for combustion efficiency) So, it makes solid sense to install a Ranheat Wood combustion system to utilise the sites waste to heat the factory. Ranheat make a low cost “bag loader” that can safely feed extracted wood dust into a Ranheat Warm air heater. There is no need to go to the expense of making briquettes to burn your dust. Briquetting machines use a lot of electrical power in forming the briquettes and once formed the dust briquettes try to go back to dust as they are only held together with pressure there is no bonding agent. Dust from the briquetting storage bags cannot be fed into a hand loaded heater and must be processed again through the briquetting machine. The bag-loader is a simple air-tight metal box with internal agitators and a simple screw that feeds material into a 150 or 300 kW Ranheat warm air heater. Whichever Ranheat system you go for or indeed any wood fired installation using waste wood still has to meet all of the current regulations. You still are legally required to obtain planning, chimney height approval and permits to enable you to legally burn wood-waste. This can be in the form of an exemption from the EA for up to 50kgs per hour, or a permit for a SWIP or a full part B permit. Ranheat are on hand to give free assistance with obtaining these permits and permissions.
Ranheat Bag-Loader
T: on 01604 750005 E: sales@ranheat.com www.ranheat.com
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INDUSTRY
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INDUSTRY HRANIPEX: COMMITTED TO QUALITY Hranipex brand RIEX offers a comprehensive and diverse collection of Drawer Slides. Interior design and furniture production are undeniably fundamental aspects of the furniture manufacturing process. Alongside these vital elements, prioritising quality, safety and the performance are integral factors that shape the essence of any piece of furniture. The rise in safety importance is undeniable, prompting Hranipex to pioneer a range of fittings and components that not only demonstrate the highest standards of craftsmanship but also deliver utmost reliability and safety assurance. Exclusively available from Hranipex, the RIEX brand offers a comprehensive selection of drawer slides including slim double-wall drawers, standard double-wall drawers, ballbearing slides, roller slides with side panels, roller slides, and concealed slides. Discover the benefits of RIEX NU04 Concealed Slide Starting with the RIEX NU04 Concealed Slide range, specifically designed for mounting under the drawer bottom for all wood drawers with the essential soft close mechanism when manufacturing furniture with safety in mind. The RIEX NU04 is a popular choice for lighter loads of up to 25kg due to the single extension slide, and the extension being shorter than nominal length of the slide. This design choice not only ensures a compact and lightweight overall build but also guarantees durability. The linear bearing consists of four rows of steel balls, designed to ensure a smooth sliding experience that is capable of withstanding up to 60,000 cycles over many years. The slides are connected to the drawer with brackets that allows the drawer front to be adjusted, which enable precise vertical adjustments (up and down) of the drawer front ranging from 0 mm – 2 mm, offering a versatile solution for customisation ensuring a seamless fit. RIEX NU04 range is compatible with side panels of drawers with thicknesses of up to 16mm and with a variety of lengths available, ranging from 250mm to 500mm, it proves to be an exceptionally versatile choice for a wide range of furniture applications.
RiexTrack Double wall slides exceeding industry standards Additionally, RIEX offers slim and standard doublewall side panels. When it comes to storage solutions, a fundamental aspect of furniture is functionality. The drawers are equipped with a soft closing mechanism and synchronisation for smooth operation and good lateral stability, offering a remarkable 40 kg loading capacity to ensure that these drawers can handle the demands of modern living. They are designed for a quick and easy assembly. One of the standout features of RIEX double wall drawers is the exceptional durability. These drawers are built to last, with an impressive lifespan of 100,000 cycles. This remarkable endurance surpasses the EN 15338+A1:2010 standard by a staggering 40,000 cycles. This longevity ensures that the slim double wall drawers will stand the test of time, even in high-use environments such as classrooms, kitchens and even bedrooms. A touch of elegance with Hranipex handles To complement the exceptional features of RIEX Drawer Slides, we invite you to explore our wide selection of handles, featuring standout options like the XH12 Handle available in 4 gorgeous colours: Matt Nickel, Polished Chrome, Matt Chrome and Brushed Nickel. These handles are designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your furniture while maintaining the same commitment to quality and precision that define our products. Hranipex’s FIRA membership: A testament to uncompromising quality In the world of precision and quality, trust isn’t handed out lightly. That’s why we Hranipex UK are officially a recognised member of FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association), a leading furniture industry association in the UK. Our membership with FIRA is an exciting step forward for us and demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers with the highest quality furniture fittings and components.
For more information about Riex and partners visit Hranipex UK at hranipex.co.uk or call 0121 767 9180
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FEATURE MAKE TIME FOR EGGER’S NEW DECORATIVE COLLECTION **Spoiler Alert** With less than six months to go until the new EGGER Decorative Collection 24+ launch, we’ve been given a sneak peek into the trends that have inspired the decors and textures that you’ll be working with from February 2024 onwards. The highly anticipated international collection is packed full of luxurious matt textures, tactile material decors, and contemporary uni colours. EGGER is well known in the industry for its strong sustainability credentials, exceptional customer service, and market leading product innovation, so we’re excited to see what is planned for 2024. Aimee Fletcher and the Decor Management team at EGGER, have pulled together an impressive collection of design led decors to meet the ever changing demands of multifunctional interiors. Read on to get the inside scoop from Aimee, learn what to expect from EGGER’s latest collection, and order a new collection decor taster pack via myEGGER.
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“The world is a different place since we launched our previous Decorative Collection in February 2020. Interiors have changed dramatically, in parallel with customer priorities. I am pleased to say that our new collection is extremely versatile and can adapt to the fast-pace of change.” “Created with our customers in mind, we are confident our new decor and texture introductions will set the stage for modern-day furniture and interior design. From kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms to student accommodation, hotels and retail spaces, our collection is a library of designs that will support our customers no matter what they are working on.” “Using the best available technology, we’ve upgraded a number of decors using more realistic textures. However, the one that really stands out for 2024 has to be the Matt. Smooth, velvety and luxurious, Matt textures are highly
FEATURE desirable. We’ve upgraded the surface and updated the decors available in our PerfectSense range, and for the first time we’ll be offering matt textured woodgrains.” “We are finding consumers are focused on investing in quality at the right price. They have re-evaluated what’s important following the pandemic, and are looking for ways to break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.” “A natural approach is what people want, to escape from an over digitalised world. Decors are warm and cosy, neutral and natural, calm and quiet, contributing towards glamourous escapism that feels homely and stylish, rather than stark or bright. In contrast, we’re seeing rich and dark decors creating relaxed yet opulent, high-value interiors, in both the home and workplace.” “Pastel colours are more powerful than ever. Natural green and earthy red tones are helping people get closer to nature as they strive to bring the outside in. Layers of pastel tones create a colour palette that provides a calm, relaxing sanctuary.”
“The mix-and-match approach is standing strong as people have more confidence in their own design aspirations. This was a key consideration when selecting the final cut, as we’ve made sure that decors will transfer into multiple interior styles, and work in numerous combinations.” “Our PerfectSense, Feelwood and Worktop ranges have been refreshed. They still include some old favourites, but lots of new decors and finishes have been added, to revitalise our offering and in turn our customers’ collections.” “I can’t wait to start sharing the new collection with our customers in February, and listen to their design ideas for our new decors and textures. The collection encompasses Eurodekor faced chipboard and medium density fibreboard, laminate, edging, and worktops, and will be available from February 2024 via our network of UK distributors.” “To get a flavour of what’s to come in the new collection, sign in or register for myEGGER and order a decor taster pack via the online shop.”
“The evolution of material finishes offers a stylish yet natural accent. Traditionally offered as slates, stones, and marbles, there is a clear shift towards metallics that ooze luxury and are very close to real material finishes.”
Aimee Fletcher
For more information visit: to.egger.link/decorative-collection
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FEATURE Finesse by Kronodesign® 38mm Square Edge worktop in Rusty Flow.
Finesse by Kronodesign® 12mm Slim Line worktop in Dovetail Arosa.
IDS UNVEILS FINESSE BY KRONODESIGN ® PREMIUM LAMINATE WORKTOP COLLECTION Nationwide specialist surface materials distributor IDS has launched Finesse by Kronodesign® - a brand new, premium specification laminate kitchen worktop range strategically aimed at the mid to upper-mid segment with a compelling proposition of precision-manufactured quality, impeccable style and price-pointed value for money. Ex-stock, the range is also available for delivery in 24-72 hours. Manufactured in the UK by Kronodesign®, a global leader in engineered wood products, Finesse offers 60 plus decors in a curated range of round and square edge profiles, thicknesses in 38mm and 22mm, together with 12mm Slim Line compact laminate decors.
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Shaped around market demand and catering for contemporary and traditional tastes, the range offers woodgrains, stone, concrete, marble, granite and burnished slate designs, together with an unrivalled choice of 15 authentic surface textures, including a large selection of contemporary matt options. Advanced digital print technology ensures that selected decors have a repeatfree design across the full 4.1m surface, ensuring a truly natural aesthetic. Finesse offers the flexibility of 3m and 4.1m lengths in 600mm widths with 900mm wide breakfast bars also available. Matching upstands and double-sided splashbacks are included across all designs.
FEATURE
Finesse by Kronodesign® 38mm Round Edge worktop in Grey Craft Oak Jason Neve, Product Manager for Worktops at IDS says: “We’ve been supplying worktops for over two decades which gives us a detailed understanding of what the market and retailers need in terms of design, product breadth, service, pricing and delivery. Finesse has been developed with a clear, strategic focus to provide retailers with a designcentred range at exceptional value that will help them do business, especially in the ongoing challenging market conditions.” Finesse by Kronodesign® is made in the UK using FSC® 80% recycled content and 20% from sawmill co-products. All worktops are FIRA Gold certified and inherently hygienic due to in-built antibacterial properties and are tested to ISO 22196:2011.
A professional Point of Sale package is available to retailers, including a display stand and consumer-focused brochure, supported by a free sample service at www.finesseworktops. co.uk. Product display deals for retailers wishing to update their showrooms with these designs are also available on request. The Finesse by Kronodesign® collection is available for delivery throughout the UK and Ireland from all IDS branches nationwide in 24-72 hours. T: 0845 7 298 298 E: info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk
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EVENTS SCM OPENS THE NEW DIGITAL HOME OF WOODWORKING INNOVATION “MY THANKS TO GABRIELE DE COL, ALESSANDRA LEARDINI AND EVERYONE AT SCM HQ, RIMINI FOR TAKING THE TIME TO PRESENT THEIR LATEST INNOVATIONS AND THE NEW DIGITAL CONTROL ROOM TO ME ON MY VISIT IN OCTOBER” - CLARE HOLLISTER September saw SCM welcome over 2,500 visitors to their HQ in Rimini when they opened their new Technology Centre dedicated to the entire woodworking industry. This new 4,000 square metre space boasts technological and digital innovations for every machining requirement in the furniture industry, windows and doors production, timber construction and bespoke joinery. An additional 20,000 square metres were made at other SCM sites in Monza, Piacenza Siena the Villa Verucchio, Hiteco, which specialises in electromechanical components. The new Technology Centre, the new digital home of woodworking innovation, is designed to offer technologies and services which provide integrated, connected, flexible, optimised and sustainable processes at each stage of secondary wood processing.
which demonstrates how data offers both proactive and predictive bespoke assistance and advice offer the client operational continuity through evolved digital technologies and interaction with SCM Service team. SCM is constantly looking at ways to improve and develop digital solutions for their client through their dedicated and innovative team. Autostore, its new automated spare parts warehouse which allows SCM to increase fivefold the pick-up speed of codes and increase the number of orders handled in 24 hours by 26%. With sustainability a key focus this has energy consumption of less than 0.1 kWh per robot. Sustainability which also means ergonomics and ease of use for operators of all the SCM machines through the eye-M control panel modular programming and higher calculation power.
The latest solutions developed by the Group combine solutions for furniture, doors and windows, timber construction and artisan joinery through the development of software and services for clients at each stage of their production process.
AUTOMATED SYSTEMS FOR THE FURNITURE INDUSTRY SCM’s new Technology Centre displayed automated and connected solutions, as well as interaction systems between humans, machines, articulated robots and AMR shuttles, software and digital services.
NEW FROM SCM Cargo, an innovative automatic system for loading and unloading doors and panels using the new CAD-CAM programming software, Maestro lab.
Gabbiani gt2 beam saw with articulated robot for automatic loading and unloading: flexible cell that optimises shifts and promotes the needs of machining that is both “batch 1” and based on large volumes. It can be used with or without the articulated robot and can switch from one modality to another. It is enhanced with the new Maestro optiwise optimiser.
Cargo is a fully automated and requires no operator supervision, it is unique in the market for its ability to continuously load and unload pieces while the machine performs drilling and routing operations. This exclusive solution allows for maximum efficiency removing manual work phases and their associated costs. It is innovative and easy to use with both the machining centre and Cargo directly managed with Maestro active HMI interface. Maestro lab is the new cutting-edge CAD/CAM programming software for both office and machine use. Intuitive and dynamic, it allows customers to easily transform an idea into a finished product, thanks to intelligent and technologically advanced programming functions and more than 150 integrated apps. Maestro Connect is the contextualised and continuous exchange of information from the machine to the cloud providing SCM clients with rapid access to answers and specific advice supporting operators and maintenance workers during us, maintenance and programming of their machines and software. SCM have created a dedicated area
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The Gabbiani p80 beam saw and morbidelli x200 nesting machining centre are both integrated into the automatic warehouse ensuring storage, labelling of the panels and direct loading onto the worktable of both machines, to protect the more delicate surfaces. The Stefani cell E edge banding cell combines the many advantages of stefani x industrial edge bander in terms of productivity and quality with those of an automated and flexible interaction through the pickback gantry panel return system. The electronic touch operating units guarantee top finishing quality, while the new hi-drive kit increases the positioning speed of the units for high productivity even in batch 1 production. It is simple and intuitive control with HMI Maestro active edge software. The Morbidelli cx220 drilling and dowelling flexible cell with robot produces all furniture elements more efficiently, even with workpieces that differ considerably from one another.
EVENTS The cell produces one panel per minute and over 400 panels per shift, with one operator, in 50 m2. It can be used exclusively with the robot for a continuous cycle production, or with partial operator supervision. The gabbiani vsi, vertical panel saw with independent motors for main blade and scorer with mechanical plunging designed to make horizontal and vertical cuts on different types of wood materials. Making its début was the new Maestro edgestore manager software for centralised control of the customer’s edges ensuring use and position in the warehouse are always under control whilst sharing information with software and company management systems. The new olimpic 500plus edge bander processes solid wood lippings up to 12 mm and gluing plastic edges by using hot air technology for an invisible glue line. The olimpic 500 is the automatic compact edge bander. Versatile use of different kinds of glue, EVA and PUR and the machining of 2 real radii through the Multiedge devices available on all the operating units including the rounding unit. Also making its début was the olimpic 300: a new edge bander for small artisan businesses, allowing them to perform a wide variety of processes like the 2 real radii machining with simple automatic settings, 45° chamfering and the upper and lower edge finish of the panel in differentiated mode.
The action e is now available with the new unloading loading system: mounting the cabinet at the working height of the clamp. The dmc eurosystem is a highly modular automatic sandingcalibrating machine, which performs a variety of machining work on both raw and painted panels. The 15’’ “eye-S” control panel allows operators to manage all the sanding functions directly from the touchscreen. The brand new Maestro active sand HMI which can manage tool storage, indicating the quantity per type of belts available in stock and giving an automatic warning when they are about to finish. The machine is equipped with the new planetary unit, ideal to achieve a precise finish on any surface, while the GSI-200 interchangeable brushing unit has been designed for companies looking for maximum production flexibility. Making its début for dmc sd 90 is the exclusive roller unit with interchangeable rubber sleeves of different hardness. This makes the machine more flexible, adapting to the production needs of small-medium businesses. The new unit can switch from calibrating operations to sanding operations of veneered and painted panels, in a matter of minutes, by simply replacing the roller’s rubber sleeve with another one of a different hardness level. Its compact size means this sander is ideal optimising production spaces. Continued on page 38 >>>
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EVENTS SUPERFICI SPECIALISTS PRESENTED THE LATEST TRENDS FOR FINISHING. The Robot maestro for painting windows and doors is designed from the arm movements of an artisan worker transformed into a robot, now with 8 axes for machining even larger windows and doors. Valtorta bravo2, cartesian robot for painting panels. Two 5-axe heads, precision, reliability and delicacy combined with speed and production continuity of an automatic spraying system for unparalleled quality. Its application versatility comes from inclining and positioning the spraying guns adapting the machine to the structures that are not flat. It takes an automatic reading of the load and calculates the best spray trajectories using simple, intuitive software. WINDOWS AND DOORS AND SOLID WOOD SCM previewed the new system 9 integrated line for windows and doors manufacturing, which included the celaschi action double-sided tenoning machine. The SCM line stands out for its fast setup change and flexibility in the management of work-pieces with different dimensions, with production up to 200 complete windows per working shift. It can process two elements of different lengths simultaneously, exploiting the principle of machining with moving motors and stationary work-pieces. Among the pluses, the presence of 4 electrospindles each one served by a 6-position tool changer.
The windorflex was showcased - the new automatic machining cell for producing complete windows, designed to optimise production rhythms by maintaining high flexibility and excellent finishing. JOINERY MACHINES The most representative SCM joinery machines were also on show. Stand-alone as well as integrated solutions like those for beam saw, edgebanding and drilling of the Smart&Human Factory integrated cell dedicated to flexible and bespoke production from raw materials to finished furniture and enhanced by the integration with MES software. The new entries include “blade off”, the innovative SCM’s safety system applied to circular saws. Its smart sensors prevents accidental contact between the human body and the blade. Also shown were the new on/off system and the automatic setup with multi-radius tools on the trimming and edge scraping units on me 40 and/or me 35 edge banders controlled by the eye-S compact control system with Maestro active edge interface which guarantees high performance according to the program; startech cn k, compact 3-axis NC machining centre which carries out all types of milling, decorations, engraving, signboard creation and 3D model prototyping. www.scmgroup.com
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
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30/08/2016 09:47
INDUSTRY REDOCOL: QUALITY BRAND FOR THE CARPENTRY TRADE The REDOCOL quality brand offers the trade highquality products that are perfectly aligned with the needs and requirements of carpenters/cabinet makers - from consumables to workshop supplies and furniture handles. Some items are needed more frequently than any others in furniture making, shopfitting and interior design. As the Ostermann experts know from their own experience, reliable quality and easy handling are important here. With REDOCOL, as brand for the trade, these factors have been optimised with regard to the needs of carpentry businesses. Both in the selection of products and in the packaging and container sizes, the focus is on practical benefits for furniture makers. The products satisfy the standards of professional craftsmanship and guarantee good value for money. Among them, the REDOCOL greenline series includes particularly environmentally friendly products. The range is extended on a regular basis. Find all information on the products by typing in the search term “#REDOCOL” on the Ostermann website www.ostermann.eu GLUES & CLEANERS Gluing and cleaning are classic jobs of the trade. That is why Ostermann provides its customers with adhesives and cleaners by REDOCOL, which are perfectly adjusted to the users’ requirements. They include hotmelt adhesives for the edgebanding machine, but also special adhesives or cleaners for different applications and surfaces. The sustainable cleaner REDOCOL greenline Teclinex One For All was even developed by Ostermann. The range has just been extended again with the white glue REDOCOL Kombicoll Super-N D2, the PUR hotmelt adhesive REDOCOL Kantomelt LM, and the EVA hotmelt adhesive REDOCOL Kantomelt lightly filled. REDOCOL PLINTH SYSTEM The REDOCOL plinth system is a flexible and reliable solution for applications in kitchen and contract construction. To make the daily work of furniture makers a little easier, there are not only plinth legs and fixing blocks in the assortment, but also useful accessories such as the REDOCOL plinth leg holders with magnetic adapters. With the latter, you can easily attach and detach plinth panels.
Container size and type depends on application and requirements in the carpentry trade. HANDLES & WARDROBE ACCESSORIES The range also includes an in-house collection of furniture handles, knobs, and coat hooks. In line with the current trend of dark surfaces, these fittings are now also available in the colour option “black, matt”. CONSUMABLES & USEFUL TOOLS Dowels, connectors and abrasives can be found in literally every workshop. The REDOCOL range, designed to meet these needs, therefore contains jointing biscuits and fluted dowels from different types of wood and in different sizes, as well as many sanding belts and sanding discs. Also very useful are little aids such as edging clamps, which prevent unwanted unrolling from opened edging rolls. PACKAGING OF FINISHED WORKPIECES The Ostermann experts have also considered safe transportation: to ensure that the furniture and furnishing elements produced with care reach the end customer undamaged, there are helpful items for packaging, such as hook and loop tapes or adhesive tapes. Particularly popular is the environmentally friendly and sustainable paper masking tape REDOCOL greenline.
Glues, cleaners, workshop supplies... the items from the REDOCOL brand have been specially developed for the requirements of carpenters/cabinet makers.
T: 01905 793550 E: s.parsons@ostermann.eu
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INDUSTRY QUALITY CABINET HARDWARE SOLUTIONS FROM IRONMONGERYDIRECT With over 18,000 products in stock, leading specialist trade supplier, IronmongeryDirect has all the essentials for your next project, plus more. Here, we take a closer look at some of the highlights from its extensive cabinet hardware range. CROFTS & ASSINDER From classic designs to contemporary styles, Crofts & Assinder offers a wide selection of options to suit any design scheme and budget. Each product is made using only the finest materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Some notable examples are the Calgary and Monmouth ranges, which combine elegant curves, bold styling, and perfected detailing to create a classic look. The collection encompasses cup handles, pull handles and knobs in a range of finishes, including satin brass and matt black. As such, professionals can mix and match products to create a unique, yet cohesive look that matches their clients’ vision. CARLISLE BRASS Stylish and high quality, the Carlisle Brass knurled cabinet handles and knobs are precision engineered from solid brass. The textured design aligns with various interior styles, particularly industrial, modern, and contemporary aesthetics. Pull handles, knobs, radio knobs and T-bars are all available from this collection in five different finishes including Polished Chrome, Matt Black, and Antique Brass. In addition, the Carlisle Lined Brass range offers further design flexibility when it comes to incorporating textured finishes – particular for projects looking for an Art Deco style. There are plenty of options with the choice of Antique, Satin, Satin Nickel, Polished Chrome, Matt Black as well as Anthracite Grey in round cabinet knobs and or T-Bar pull handles. HAMPSTEAD The Hampstead range is the crown jewel of IronmongeryDirect’s exclusive brands. The latest additions to the collection comprise of unique, beautiful, and longlasting cabinet hardware solutions with designs inspired by the zodiac. For example, the Pisces knurled T-bar cabinet handle is ideal for projects that need a luxury touch, while the minimalist bow-handled Leo will modernise any kitchen space. All Hampstead products are covered by a 25-year guarantee to ensure long term peace of mind.
HOXTON Customise furniture with the stunning Hoxton collection by Frelan Hardware. These high-quality cabinet knobs and handles are crafted from solid brass and with a varied selection in stock, it is easy to incorporate finishes that are on trend, whether for modern or classic decors. The Hoxton range has six finishes available that includes antique brass, satin brass, dark bronze, satin nickel, polished nickel and matt black. The collection also includes a unique back plate design that can be bought separately, making it is easy to mix and match or switch knobs to handles to create a bespoke look, without having to either replace the doors or do any repair work to cover drill holes. IronmongeryDirect is the UK’s largest online supplier of ironmongery to the trade, with over 18,000 products in stock, including everything from cabinet hardware to sliding door gear. Woodworkers, carpenters, and joiners can choose from a range of flexible delivery options to meet the needs of their schedules, including next-day delivery, same-day delivery to postcodes in selected areas of London and the East of England, as well as click and collect from 6,500 pick up points across the UK. To request a free catalogue or to view online: www.IronmongeryDirect.co.uk
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Finish shown: Serica Kombu Green
SERICA.
Speaks your style.
dp-lamination is leading the way in the production of laminated products. The largest and most diverse portfolio of decorative surfaces available in UK.
www.decorativepanels.co.uk
INDUSTRY
UNILAP CUTS THROUGH CAPACITY BACKLOG WITH VOLLMER Almost 50 years ago South Yorkshire Saw & Tool Co, a small saw blade sharpening and ancillary supply company first opened its doors for business. Wind forwards half a century and the Doncaster manufacturer that started working out of a two-bay garage has evolved into one of the UK’s leading saw blade and round tool manufacturing and servicing companies for the woodworking industry. Unilap utilises its automated CNC technology to manufacture everything from circular saw blades, TCT and PCD tipped rotary tools and solid carbide tools. To manufacture the countless product lines with thousands of new, re-sharpened and serviced tools being delivered each week, the company has increased its Vollmer plant list to 11 Vollmer machines. Adding to the portfolio that already includes QM, CHD, CHX, QXD and QWD models, the Doncaster manufacturer purchased a Vollmer CHX840 with an HS loading system in April 2022. This was rapidly followed by a Vollmer QXD250 with the HC5 loader in July and then a Vgrind 260 with an HC4 loading system in October. The reasoning behind the CHX840 and the QXD250 was simple. The automated CHX840 saw blade sharpening machine was purchased to add unmanned ‘lights-out’ running and alleviate capacity on the 22-employee company’s other saw blade manufacturing and servicing machines. Likewise, Unilap already had a nine-year-old Vollmer QXD200 machine running around the clock, so upgrading to a brandnew QXD250 would add capacity. It would also support the rapid growth and give continuity of supply in the event of planned maintenance or machine downtime on the existing QXD200. As Unilap Managing Director, Carl Hughes says: “We have been buying Vollmer machines for over 40 years and we love the brand. The build quality, innovation, reliability and the ability to outperform all other machines is what
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keeps us buying Vollmer. The new machines are more userfriendly, productive, flexible and capable than ever before. The strides forward in technology from Vollmer compared to our older existing machines is phenomenal.” Unilap wanted a machine capable of producing saw blades of 180mm diameter and smaller. This would leave the existing CHD machines to automatically process larger saws whilst alleviating capacity pressure on the manually loaded saw blade sharpening machines – the Vollmer CHX840 with the HS automation system was the perfect fit. Before the arrival of the CHX840, an employee would produce upward of 200 saw blades a week by manually loading a saw blade sharpening machine for 8 to 10 hours a day. Contributing to the success of the business in a manner equally impressive as the arrival of the CHX840 is the new QXD250 machine with its HC5 automation system. The new QXD250 was installed to underpin the growth of the rotary
INDUSTRY PCD tipped tool division and before the arrival of the QXD250, the existing Vollmer QXD200 machine was running 24 hours a day and 6 days a week. This gave the company no opportunity to grow its production of specialist rotary tools. The final machine of the three to arrive at Unilap was the Vollmer Vgrind 260 with an HC4 loading system that can accommodate up to 158 round shank tools. With its unique multilayer machining concept that has two vertically positioned grinding spindles on the C-axis pivot point, the move to a new machine concept was a daunting prospect for Unilap – but the company now wishes it made the move sooner. Unilap produces an ever increasing quantity of compression cutters for the woodworking and composite sectors. However, these ‘up cut down cut’ tools incorporate a more complex geometry than standard tools. That was until the arrival of the Vgrind 260, as Bob adds: “To prevent delamination on surfaces, the compression tools have two opposing geometries on a single tool, which can pose more of a challenge with the programming process. However, the Numroto software suite on the Vgrind 260 makes the programming and production of compression tools and other complex geometry tools very simple. The intuitive guidance through the process enables us to programme and produce these tools with ease, and this is further streamlining our output and cutting our lead times with complex tools.”
T: 0115 9491040 E: admin-uk@vollmer-group.com www.vollmer-group.com https://www.facebook.com/vollmergroup
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ATA E N G I N E E R I N G P R O D U C T S LT D
INDUSTRY RANHEAT ENGINEERING LTD THE “ONE STOP SHOP” FOR WOOD-WASTE BURNING EQUIPMENT Most purchasers of modern wood-waste burning equipment want one supplier to provide a “turn- key” solution. For Ranheat they even supply the mortice lock and key to the plant room. (as well as making the plant room) Chris Franklin MD at Ranheat Engineering Ltd., a leading UK manufacturer of wood combustion equipment, continues his series of exclusive articles for Panel and Joinery Production. This issue he looks back at his previous article and shows the purpose made plant room featured which is now installed. Ranheat have used standard shipping containers, but they need a metal floor and often are not big enough to get the equipment in. The NDRHI is now closed to new applicants, OFGEM are now visiting accredited installations and carrying out compliance checks, if any of the permissions or permits are not in place OFGEM is stopping payments under the RHI, as a noncompliant installation. So, what needs to be in place to be compliant with your local authority? And hence compliant with your ongoing obligations under the RHI? Following is a list of requirements to remain receiving payments. 1. You must have planning permission for any industrial chimney or written proof of permitted development, from your local authority planning department. 2. You must have submitted a chimney height approval form to the local authority as to the emissions from the chimney the efflux velocity and the chimney height.
10-year start date begins from when your meters were first installed, most recently recalibrated or replaced. To comply with this requirement, you can choose to either recalibrate or replace your meter. Failure to comply will be considered a breach of your ongoing obligations and could result in payments being suspended or permanently withheld. Any deviance from the above will result in RHI payments being stopped until the installation becomes compliant. All Ranheat installations on the RHI are already fully compliant. Ranheat also include free of charge the help needed with permits and permissions. It’s included with the service that Ranheat gives to its customers. This avoids the need to employ expensive “consultants” or so called “experts” many of whom have no formal qualifications. Not all of the companies selling Biomass equipment made their customers aware of the need for permits and permissions. The need for permitting came into force in 1990 so for 33 years they have been a requirement. Chris Franklin, of Ranheat Engineering Ltd has been in the industry for almost 40 years so grew up with the legislation. Ranheat also make spares and service and repair other makes of woodburning boilers and heaters
Profiled Steel building installed with Ranheat Ceramic Filter in front of purpose made plantroom
3. You must have a permit to burn waste or have applied for an exemption if less than 50kgs per hour. Again, this applies to all sizes of plant. This can be as a SWIP (small waste incineration plant) up to 90kgs per hour. Over this size you need a full part B permit, and the boiler must be tested annually by an accredited test house. 4. All wood waste, even virgin timber, needs a permit to burn waste, if the wood waste is a by-product of a wood machining or manufacturing process. 5. No wood containing Halogenated Organic compounds or heavy metals can be burnt. (Normally these are only found in demolition timber) 6. All heat meters must be re-calibrated every 10 years or be replaced. Ofgem has recently sent out communications that require every RHI participant to recalibrate all heat meters at least every 10 years (or in line with the manufacturer’s instructions where available, whichever is sooner). The
Profiled steel building under construction
For further information on all types and sizes of Industrial Woodburning equipment from 150 kW upwards: T: 01604 750005 E: sales@ranheat.com www.ranheat.com
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CASE STUDY
HEAVEN DOWSETT & CO. LTD’S INTEGRATION OF AXYZ TAILORED ROUTER SOLUTIONS Established in Birmingham in 1908, Heaven Dowsett & Co. Ltd has proudly upheld its position as the foremost supplier of plastics and electrical insulations to various industries from rail to construction. This enduring prominence has been maintained through their unwavering commitment to providing efficient and tailored services that cater to the unique needs of their valued customers. Over more than a century of operation, they have witnessed numerous advancements in materials and manufacturing technologies. To remain at the forefront of their field, Heaven Dowsett has consistently invested in training and the latest CNC equipment, allowing them to adapt seamlessly to industry changes. In doing so they successfully integrated AXYZ Tailored Router Solutions routers into its operations. This case study explores the journey of Heaven Dowsett, detailing their adoption of AXYZ machines, the impact on their productivity, efficiency, cost savings, quality improvements, employee perceptions and future plans for automation. Adoption of AXYZ Tailored Router Solutions Heaven Dowsett & Co. Ltd has been utilising AXYZ machines for over 10 years, they currently have two machines in their arsenal, including the AXYZ 6010 7G ATC and the AXYZ INFINITE 4008 7G ATC. The INFINITE router is the newer model, a highly configurable CNC machine that is suitable for one-off, small batch production as well as high volume and high productivity applications, including point of purchase, sign making, woodworking, plastic fabrication, engineering plastic machining and so much more. The decision to adopt this technology was prompted by their desire to enhance production capabilities and expand their
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range of machinable designs and recognise the need for advanced routing technology to meet the evolving demands of their clients. “These routers have become an integral part of Heaven Dowsett’s advancement in CNC machining and of our production capabilities and offer many advantages” said Mark Hamilton Managing Director. Heaven Dowsett operates across various core markets, including rail, automotive, electrical and construction. Their product range is diverse, spanning a wide spectrum of components and parts demanded by these industries. The AXYZ machines at Heaven Dowsett handle a multitude of tasks and processes. They utilise the machines for cutting, shaping and machining various materials including laminated materials, acrylic, polyethylene and polycarbonate for the electrical insulation industry with precision, often achieving tolerances as tight as +/- 0.15/0.2mm. IMPACT ON PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY “The integration of AXYZ machines has significantly improved Heaven Dowsett’s productivity and efficiency” said Mark Hamilton Managing Director. These machines allow them to produce goods ranging in size from small components to large pieces such as their range of screening measuring up to 2 meters by 3 meters. Automation features, such as tool changers and material handling systems, have significantly reduced setup times, increased overall production efficiency and led to cost savings and faster project turnaround times. This increased production capacity has streamlined workflow and optimised their production output, reducing lead times and enhancing overall efficiency, versatility and design
CASE STUDY capabilities making them capable of processing a wide range of materials, including wood, plastics, metals and composites thereby adding to Heaven Dowsett ability to increase their industry portfolio. AXYZ routers provide unmatched precision and accuracy, ensuring that Heaven Dowsett consistently delivers components with tight tolerances, meeting the most stringent industry specifications. INITIAL CHALLENGES AND OVERCOMING THEM One of the initial challenges faced during the integration of AXYZ machines was the company’s lack of prior experience with CNC routers. Employees needed to learn how to operate the machines and understand their capabilities effectively. Additionally, cutting a diverse range of materials required learning optimal settings and techniques for each material. However, with the invaluable support and advice from AXYZ, they overcame these challenges and fine-tuned their processes for improved productivity and efficiency, quickly becoming proficient in the use of the machines. ENHANCED COST SAVINGS AND INCREASED PROFITABILITY The use of AXYZ machines has resulted in cost savings for Heaven Dowsett. These machines have expanded the range of machinable designs they can produce and have increased the production rate of some of their regular parts. These cost savings have contributed to improved profitability. The ability to produce high-quality products with precision, consistency and speed using AXYZ machines has raised production standards, resulting in superior products. Improved Employee Perceptions and Job Satisfaction The introduction of automation in the workflow at Heaven Dowsett has been well-received by employees. The machines have not only improved their job satisfaction by providing opportunities to work on innovative projects but have also enhanced their skill sets and expanded their roles, rather than leading to a reduction in the workforce.
PRECISION CUTTING SERVICES INCREASED “The AXYZ routers allow us to offer our extensive range of stock products to be delivered in precise cut-to-size panels or billets, eliminating the need to invest in entire material units. This service is especially valuable for machinists and small-scale users, offering a strategic pricing edge over competitors. With our efficient processes, you can typically access materials on the next business day and in some cases, even on the same day. This ensures that you’re well-prepared for those occasional urgent situations that inevitably arise.” Explained Mark Hamilton Managing Director. DEPENDABLE MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT To ensure the smooth operation of AXYZ machines, Heaven Dowsett benefits from the reliable support structure provided by AXYZ and invests in annual service plans offered by AXYZ, with in-house engineers handling minor issues. Regular maintenance and support from the manufacturer keep the machines running efficiently minimising downtime. FUTURE PLANS FOR AUTOMATION WITH AXYZ Heaven Dowsett has recently purchased a new AXYZ machine, “which indicates our commitment to further integrating automation into our processes and reflects our determination to stay at the forefront of manufacturing innovation.” Said Mark Hamilton Managing Director. They plan to continue leveraging this technology to enhance their capabilities and expand their market reach. In conclusion, Heaven Dowsett’s journey with AXYZ routers exemplifies how a forward-thinking company can successfully adopt automation technology to improve productivity, product quality and employee satisfaction. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and expanding their automation capabilities, Heaven Dowsett is wellpositioned for future growth in their diverse markets. Heaven Dowsett & Co. Ltd’: T: 0121 360 0345 http://www.heavendowsett.com AXYZ Tailored Router Solutions: https://www.axyz.com E: enquiries@axyz.com Tel: 01952 291600
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INDUSTRY AFS BIOMASS PYROLYSIS & HOT AIR TURBINE TECHNOLOGY FOR ELECTRICITY AND HEAT CO-GENERATION The latest state-of-the art technology can generate electricity and heat from your waste including off-cuts, shavings and sawdust. How does it work? The pyrolysis thermal combustion unit produces consistent temperature hot gases at approx. 950ºC. These gases pass through an air to air heat exchanger from which the pressurised clean hot air powers a hot air turbine to generate electricity. The hot flue gases and hot clean air, still at approx. 450ºC, can then be used to generate heat through an air to water heat exchanger, steam through a steam generator or more electricity through an ORC (organic rankine cycle) waste heat electricity generator. The only waste, or bi-product, is biochar. Often referred to as “carbon gold” or “black gold”, biochar is a carbon rich material with compelling environmental benefits. What is biochar? Normal thermal combustion of wood produces ash which needs to be disposed of ethically. Pyrolysis thermal combustion, or pyro-gasification, produces biochar, which is a highly sought after product in various different markets including agriculture, water purification and construction. Top quality biochar can sell for more than £1,000/tonne.
Carbon Credits A carbon credit represents either the permanent removal of a tonne of CO2 from the atmosphere, or the avoidance of one tonne of CO2 being emitted in the first place, through changes in energy generation or carbon capture. Biochar produced from pyro-gasification is recognised as a carbon sink, i.e. it captures or locks away carbon permanently. Biochar attracts CORCs, CO2 removal certificates, which can be traded on carbon exchanges or retained in the expectation of future growth. Grade “A” biochar currently attracts 2.75 credits/tonne. Why Invest in a Co-Generation System? There are compelling reasons to invest: • Become self-sufficient for electricity and heat • Massively reduce electricity bills • Save money on fossil fuel heating • Use manufacturing waste as fuel • Sell the only waste/bi-product - biochar • Earn from trading carbon credits • Become carbon neutral For more information contact: AFS Biomass Ltd e: info@afsbiomass.com t: 0161 302 2851
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NEW
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CASE STUDY ULTIMA FURNITURE TURNS TO HOMAG FOR NEW BEDROOM FURNITURE PRODUCTION FACILITY With a turnover in excess of £100 million, Ultima Furniture Systems has built a reputation for designing and manufacturing high quality kitchens that don’t cost the earth. It is proud of the fact that the frames of its wooden shaker doors are made from solid kiln dried timbers – Ultima don’t use laminates. The company continually invests in the latest technology and is always looking to make improvements in its processes. “Every cabinet we produce is manufactured to the same high standards,” explains Mark Gibson, production manager at Ultima Furniture. He continues, “It is something our founder, Alf Ellis, wouldn’t have any other way. His enduring fascination with manufacturing has been driving Ultima forward ever since the company began supplying customers in 1985. “We’ve been a fan of HOMAG since the very early days of the business; its machinery and software are, in our opinion, simply the best. In 2022 we purchased the assets of an office furniture company that had fallen on hard times. Its woodworking equipment was very old and unreliable so we decided to invest in some new machinery from HOMAG. “Our aim was to buy machines that would enable us to manufacture bedroom furniture to a high standard, and at a rapid throughput. To achieve this we were looking for an edge bander with zero-joint technology, a drilling and doweling CNC and a cabinet press.”
“Assembling cabinets so they are square and accurately aligned is vitally important when it comes to creating first class finished bedroom furniture. That’s why we’ve invested in the HOMAG CABTEQ T-250. It not only delivers superb assembly quality to give our furniture that special finish, but it is also quick and easy to use.” WHY WE PARTNER WITH HOMAG “Downtime is very costly for us and HOMAG’s excellent aftersales support is one of the main reasons we partner with them. If there is ever an issue with a machine, more often than not their engineers are able get us back up and running via HOMAG’s online diagnostic service. “From our perspective, every aspect of HOMAG’s service is excellent. The team at Castle Donington are, to a person, friendly, professional and proactive. Nothing is ever too much trouble and you can count on getting an open and honest response to any query,” concludes Gibson. If you would like more information or a demonstration of any of the HOMAG machinery and software, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
HOMAG EDGETEQ S-500 edge bander with return system
RELIABLE, HIGH QUALITY MACHINERY “Our research led us to focus on acquiring an EDGETEQ S-500 edge bander, a DRILLTEQ H-600 CNC processing centre and a CABTEQ T-250 cabinet press. HOMAG’s area sales manager, Jon Lawman, arranged for us to visit the factory in Germany to see these machines in operation prior to placing the order. Witnessing the manufacturing set up in Germany first hand not only enabled us to evaluate the machines we wanted to buy in action, but it also acted as a reminder of how technically advanced HOMAG’s manufacturing capabilities are. “One of the key benefits of the EDGETEQ S-500 is the airTec edging facility which offers zero-joint technology. In the airTec process, the edge and panel are bonded using hot air which produces a superb, almost invisible joint. The machine gives us a high level of flexibility with outstanding trimming quality. “The DRILLTEQ H-600 impressed us with its speed and accuracy. Every drilling action is executed with extreme repeat accuracy, as are the routing and grooving operations. High throughputs are achievable because we can process two workpieces simultaneously which is a big plus for us.
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Infeed for HOMAG CABTEQ T-250 cabinet press
CASE STUDY HOMAG DRILLTEQ H-600 CNC Processing Centre
HOMAG CABTEQ T-250 cabinet press
T: 01332 856500 E: info-uk@homag.com www.homag.com
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Not only do we stock Reactive HotMelt Adhesive for Prole Wrapping and Edge Banding Applications. We also stock Nordson compatible spare parts for EB 60V Slot Nozzles , Heated Hoses , Platen Seal for BM 200 and BM 20 Systems and generally anything to do with Prole Wrapping!
We also supply Slitting Blades, Moulder Wheels, Heat Guns, Elements and Brushes for Heat Guns
We have one of the largest stocks of Wrapping Wheels in the UK ! Stocking 30 different types and 8 different shore hardness! So literally thousands on stock at all times!!
BRIT-AD LTD BONDING BRITAIN TOGETHER
BRIT-AD LTD
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BONDING BRITAIN TOGETHER
BRIT-AD LTD
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BONDING BRITAIN TOGETHER
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07484 341294 arook.ba@gmail.com www.britishadhesives.co.uk
BRIT-AD LTD BONDING BRITAIN TOGETHER
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Connect with every corner of the industry. Materials & Finishes Show will open more doors, more pipelines and more deals in just four days than in a full business year.
The UK’s leading trade show for machinery, manufacturers, processors & installers of wood & associated materials.
Crafted for your business, to do business.
ENQUIRE TO EXHIBIT materialsandfinishesshow.com/exhibit Materials & Finishes Show was formerly known as W Exhibition.
UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE SPACE!
25
ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE AND EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT
For 25 years, Combilift has been revolutionising the way companies handle and store goods. We help companies of all sizes and from every industry to maximise the capacity, safety and efficiency of their warehouse and storage facilities. Our pioneering product range of multidirectional, articulated and pedestrian forklifts, straddle carriers and container loaders allow you to manoeuvre long loads safely, reduced aisle widths and increase the amount of space available for storage.
CONTACT US TODAY
To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.
combilift.com