Highlighting Machine Tool & Manufacturing Technology Inside this issue : Automation, Lathes, Turning Centres, Tooling, Quality, Inspection, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Engineering, Robotics, Skills, EMO 2025, Sheetmetal, Sustainability and Events.
HIGHLIGHTING MACHINE TOOL & MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
ISSUE 23 | SEP/OCT 2025
Scan the code to read the digital edition
SMART THINKING
An interview with NCMT Managing Director Jonathan Smart to talk diversification and market gains at this progressive machine tool supplier
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LET’S TALK MATERIALS Circular design to shape the future of metalworking
FROM RACE TO ROAD How cutting edge materials could decarbonise the school run
ADVANCED ENGINEERING 2025 Looking ahead to the final trade show of the year
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XYZ Showrooms | Livingston | Huddersfield Sheffield | Nuneaton | Devon | Poland
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Let’s Catch Up What is happening out there? Publisher’s Welcome The season of opportunity
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CONTACT US Publisher - Laura Crawford laura@machineryandmanufacturing.com Technical Editor - Steed Webzell steed@machineryandmanufacturing.com Advertising - Mark Deadman Mark@machineryandmanufacturing.com Editorial team editorial@machineryandmanufacturing.com Circulation enquiries circulation@machineryandmanufacturing.com Published in an eco-aware format by Engineering Media Ltd The Maidstone Innovation Centre, Gidds Pond Way, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5FY Tel +44 (0)1622 296112
Opinion Let’s talk materials
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People of UKMFG Turning weapons into purpose
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Advanced Material Engineering From race to road
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Cover Interview Smart thinking at NCMT Shopfloor Inspection Mitutoyo introduces QM-Fit Manufacturer Spotlight A culture of success Workforce Resilience Generations at work Turning Cutting Tungsten bar 12 hours a day
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WELCOME Welcome to issue twenty three of Machinery & Manufacturing magazine. Crafted by our team of dedicated engineering media professionals especially for you, the CNC machine tool intensive manufacturing community. We invite you to enjoy this immersive reading experience packed with video and downloads. This is a hybrid magazine, to be read on or alongside your desktop, phone or tablet. I’m a hybrid! How do you use me? Click or scan the play buttons for instant video. Click or scan the download buttons for instant brochure downloads, discreetly appearing on your device in a separate file ready for you to simply hit save.
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Machine Safety Revolutionising press shop safety EDM Quest for strategic investment
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Company Number : 13634129 VAT Registration 397 8226 41
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Waterjet Cutting Start-up jets ahead
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Our registered company address is: 20-22 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7GU In our mission towards carbon neutral, we publish and replant in partnership with:
Advanced Engineering Preview What to expect at the show
Manufacturing Solutions Advanced tooling for heat exchangers Sheetmetal Transforming bending capacity EMO Review A week of innovation and technology Supply Chain Success A £Multimillion opportunity Green Manufacturing Sustainability pledge pays off CNC Spotlight Shiny business at Metallic Elephant
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Events Calendar What will we see next?
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LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? Get in touch to be included in one of our future editions! hello@machineryandmanufacturing.com
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© All rights reserved. Machinery & Manufacturing along with it’s contents, should not be copied or transmitted in any format without seeking prior consent from Engineering Media Ltd. You can read our privacy policy by visiting www.machineryandmanufacturing. com where you will find more detail about how we protect your data. The contents of Machinery & Manufacturing does not imply our endorsement, where interviews and articles contain views, they do not necessarily reflect the views of our editors.
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PUBLISHER’S WELCOME
THE SEASON OF OPPORTUNITY
investment. We are especially excited to support this event because it shows how businesses can take innovation and turn it into real, measurable growth. For UK manufacturing, this season is a turning point. Growth comes from vision, collaboration and being willing to invest in new technologies and skills. With the right choices, UK manufacturing can not only keep up with global competitors, it can lead the way in advanced engineering and smart growth. We are really looking forward to seeing our readers and the wider manufacturing community at these events this season. It’s going to be an exciting few months - see you out there!
Autumn is always a busy and exciting time for UK manufacturing, and this year feels extra important. From EMO in Hannover to the Advanced Engineering Show in October, the industry is showing just how innovative and adaptable it can be, with new technologies popping up everywhere and opportunities to collaborate around every corner. EMO was a great reminder that manufacturing is moving faster than ever. Automation, digitalisation and advanced materials are not just trends for the future, they are tools driving growth today. Across the UK, open houses are giving engineers, buyers and innovators the chance to see technology in action and feel genuinely excited about what’s possible. Looking ahead, the Advanced Engineering Show will keep the conversation going, highlighting cutting-edge solutions and bringing people together to build the partnerships that really make a difference. In November, the Manufacturing Revenue Growth Summit will focus on strategy and
Laura Crawford, Publisher
REQUEST AT VERICUT.COM/EN-GB
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LET’S CATCH UP
OPEN MIND APPOINTS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR
OPEN MIND Technologies UK has appointed Ken Baldwin as Managing Director. Baldwin, previously Sales Director, has over 20 years’ experience with the company and will lead UK operations, focusing on business growth and market development. OPEN MIND provides CAD/CAM and MES solutions, including hyperMILL® for precise component machining and Hummingbird MES for seamless digital production integration. Serving industries such as motorsport, aerospace, and medical technology, the UK team comprises 18 experts. Baldwin says, “Our goal is to demonstrate how hyperMILL® and Hummingbird MES enhance manufacturing efficiency and workflow integration.”
RAPID FUSION JOINS £700K MARITIME DESIGN OVERHAUL
UK manufacturers face a triple hit to energy bills, the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) has warned. From October, Balancing Services Use of System (BSUoS) charges rise to £1.569p/kWh, followed in November by the Nuclear RAB levy to fund Sizewell C, and Ofgem’s R110- ET3 framework in 2026, projected to increase transmission costs by 100%. CBM President Stephen Morley said many downstream firms - heavy energy users excluded from government relief - could see costs double. With UK electricity already 50% higher than Europe, the CBM is urging urgent intervention to avoid plant closures and safeguard the competitiveness of British engineering. CBM WARNS OF ENERGY COST SHOCK FOR MANUFACTURERS
Rapid Fusion, a UK leader in robotic 3D printing, will deliver the manufacturing element of a £700,000 project to revolutionise vessel design. The Exeter- based firm joins Compute Maritime, BYD Naval Architects, Siemens Digital Industries Software and the University of Southampton on the UK-funded Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition. The consortium’s GenDSOM initiative combines generative AI, simulation, optimisation, and advanced manufacturing to cut design costs by 10%, accelerate cycles by 20% and boost efficiency 50%. Rapid Fusion’s Apollo system will 3D print hydrofoils for a crew transfer vessel, supporting decarbonisation targets and reshaping shipbuilding with scalable, production-ready solutions.
www.openmind-tech.com
DUGARD ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC RESTRUCTURING TO DRIVE GROWTH
UK machine tool distributor Dugard has streamlined its leadership into a three-director team: Eric Dugard, Sales Director Colin Thomson, and Managing Director Jamie Young, all active in daily operations. The move replaces a complex 14-shareholder structure, enabling faster decision-making and agile market responses. Customer service has been enhanced through unified technical and operations oversight, while supplier partnerships are now more collaborative, focusing on end-user solutions. Dugard has also added high-end Zopo machining centres to its portfolio. The restructuring positions the company for accelerated growth, improved operational efficiency, and ambitious future investment in technology and talent.
www.rapidfusion.co.uk
www.thecbm.co.uk
www.dugard.com
PP C&A TAPS GLOBAL LEADER TO DRIVE EXPANSION
CITIZEN MACHINERY OPEN HOUSE TO SHOWCASE ADVANCED MACHINING TECH Citizen Machinery’s Open House returns this year with a bold demonstration lineup. Attendees can expect the debut of 4-axis simultaneous machining, alongside three new Miyano lathes on show: the ABX-80THY3, BNJ-51SY7 and BNX-65MSY2. Also on display will be a BNA-42SY5 equipped with automation, plus the third-generation Cincom L20-LFV series, first launched in Bushey in April. Each machine will feature LFV (Low Frequency Vibration), now in its eighth anniversary year. The event promises engineers and manufacturers a close-up look at tomorrow’s precision machining capabilities. www.citizenmachinery.co.uk/open-house
PP Control & Automation (PP C&A) has appointed Pinaki Banerjee as CEO, with Tony Hague stepping into a commercial- focused role. The move supports the firm’s ambitious growth strategy, including expansion into Central Europe and North America through acquisitions. Backed by Ardenton Capital, PP C&A aims to double revenue to £70m by 2027. Banerjee, formerly CEO of Rubix’s Central Eastern Europe operations, brings extensive global experience and a track record of M&A success. His mission: scale the company internationally while cementing its UK operations as a world-class manufacturing hub.
www.ppcanda.com
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LET’S CATCH UP
OPEN HOUSE • 7-9 OCT 25 CITIZEN TURNING CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE • BRIERLEY HILL JOIN US AS WE...
The Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP), launched by University College Birmingham with City & Guilds and Innovate UK, tackles critical skills shortages while aligning with Net Zero goals. Using immersive AR/VR, real-world simulations, and live production equipment, students gain hands-on experience for gigafactories and SMEs. Developed with direct industry input, including Atlas Copco’s expertise and technology, the programme sets a national benchmark for electrification skills, strengthens the UK’s supply chain, and creates a sustainable, workforce-ready talent pipeline for the future. ATLAS COPCO BACKS UK’S FIRST ACCREDITED BATTERY MANUFACTURING SKILLS PATHWAY
www.atlascopco.com
DAVTURN MODERNISES PRODUCTION
TURNING THE TIDE
IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY EXPERIENCE HOW TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP TO This year marks the eighth anniversary of the launch of our game-changing Low Frequency Vibration (LFV) technology. Now available using four axes simultaneously, this programmable chip control technology has revolutionised the world of CNC machining production, helping businesses to reach a new level of productivity and efficiency. Witness our expanding range for yourself between 7-9 October at our Turning Centre of Excellence in Brierley Hill and discover how maximising your ROI through fully functioning LFV lights-out machining is a real step up in performance and profitability! TO JOIN US 7 GREAT REASONS
Bromsgrove-based Davturn Precision Turned Parts Ltd is driving growth through continuous investment in modern machinery and tooling. The family-run subcontractor now operates seven automated CNC machines producing over 100,000 components weekly, with directors Matt and Ryan Birley leading the push for efficiency. Recent trials with MSC Edge carbide tools have delivered significant benefits, halving tooling costs and cutting cycle times while maintaining high output. With further MSC Edge integrations planned, Davturn is maximising productivity within its existing footprint and reinforcing its reputation as a forward-thinking precision engineering partner. www.davturn.co.uk
West Yorkshire duo join forces to tackle engineering skills gap. Brighouse-based West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services (WYMS) has partnered with Elland’s Colchester Machine Tool Solutions to address the region’s engineering skills shortage. Together, they have launched short- format technical courses, offering half-day training modules in manual and CNC machining at Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. Designed to be flexible and affordable, the modular programmes allow employers to select the most relevant sessions for upskilling staff or training apprentices. Delivered by veteran engineer Trevor Moore, the courses are already being piloted at WKW Precision Engineering. Open to manufacturers, colleges, and universities nationwide, they aim to futureproof the UK’s manufacturing workforce.
LIVE PRODUCT DEMONSTRATIONS
IN PERSON CONSULTATIONS
NETWORK AND CONNECT
DELICIOUS FOOD
EXCLUSIVE SHOW OFFERS
CITIZEN WATCH DAILY PRIZE DRAW
RSVP Scan the QR Code to join us at Citizen Turning Centre of Excellence Narrowboat Way • Hurst Business Park • Brierley Hill • West Midlands DY5 1UF +44 (0)1923 691500 • sales@citizenmachinery.co.uk • citizenmachinery.co.uk
www.wyms.co.uk/technical
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DXAS DRILLS
LET’S CATCH UP
INNOVATIVE DRILLING TECHNOLOGY • Secure two screw clamping • Perfect centering • Strong cutting edge • Optimum positioning of coolant holes
WALTER SOLID CARBIDE DRILL SUPREME
RARUK AUTOMATION ANNOUNCES UK PARTNERSHIP WITH GRIP
• Flute geometry for excellent chip evacuation • XR point thinning for low cutting resistance • For steel and cast iron
Walter has introduced the Drivox·tec™ Solid Carbide Drill DD170 Supreme, a premium solution for holemaking in steel and cast iron. Building on the success of the DC170, it features the advanced Krato·tec™® multi-layer coating, boosting tool life by up to 50%. A revised point geometry enhances positioning accuracy, reduces axial forces, and improves hole quality. The patented groove design with twelve flutes ensures better swarf evacuation, stability, and more regrinds, increasing sustainability. Suitable for demanding applications, the DD170 Supreme sets a new benchmark in high- performance drilling, available in diameters from 3–20mm through Walter Xpress.
RARUK Automation has announced an exclusive UK partnership with German specialist GRIP, bringing intelligent tool changing systems for collaborative robots to local manufacturers. The agreement expands RARUK’s automation portfolio, adding flexible, safe and efficient solutions that integrate seamlessly with Universal Robots. GRIP offers manual and automatic tool changers for fast, secure end-of-arm switching, plus a base changer enabling rapid robot relocation. These innovations minimise downtime, boost productivity and optimise resource use. Ross Lacy, Sales Director, said: “Our partnership with GRIP brings a new level of versatility, unlocking greater value for businesses.”
www.walter-tools.com
• Ø18 - Ø30 • 1.5 x D ~ 8 x D
www.raruk.com
VIACNC APPOINTED UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR OTURN CNC MACHINERY
VIACNC has been announced as the official UK distributor for OTURN CNC Machinery, bringing the brand’s versatile range of machine tools to British manufacturers. OTURN, a global name in precision engineering, offers solutions including 2-axis lathes, twin-spindle turning centres, multi-tasking machines and advanced 5-axis machining centres. Trusted across aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and heavy industries, OTURN machines are built for accuracy, speed and reliability. Backed by VIACNC’s technical expertise and customer-focused support, the partnership will ensure UK manufacturers gain access to innovative CNC solutions designed to boost productivity and streamline operations.
www.viacnc.com
mmc-carbide.com
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OPINION
LET’S TALK MATERIALS Across the metalworking sector, pressure is mounting to rethink how materials are managed from design through to end of life. What was once a side discussion has become central to competitiveness. A sustainable approach to materials is now a strategic necessity, and circularity offers a powerful framework to achieve it while strengthening supply chain resilience. Simon Farnfield, Event Director at Easyfairs, argues that circular thinking is not only compatible with the needs of machining and metalworking but is set to define the industry’s future. FROM WASTE TO VALUE For decades, metalworking has lived with high levels of waste. Swarf bins filled with valuable chips, cutting tools discarded after wear, and components scrapped because they could not be reworked have all been accepted as part of the process. Rising raw material costs, volatile supply chains and entrenched legacy practices reinforced the belief that waste was unavoidable. That model is being challenged. Circularity is here to stay, and it is becoming an economic driver. Between 2014 and 2019, the UK’s circular economy added almost 90,000 new jobs, bringing the total to around 560,000. Circular design to shape the future of metalworking
These are the lifeblood of metalworking, used in cutting tools, machine spindles, electronics and high-performance alloys. By 2030, at least 25% of these materials will need to come from recycled sources. Machining firms that invest now in closed- loop recycling — from carbide recovery schemes to swarf reclamation — will be better positioned as legislation tightens. Those who delay risk higher costs, restricted supply and lost competitiveness. A PLATFORM FOR PROGRESS Industry platforms such as Advanced Engineering provide a crucial space to explore these challenges. By connecting toolmakers, materials specialists and machine tool builders, they help accelerate adoption of circular practices across metalworking. On the Main Stage this year, circularity will be a central theme. From aerospace machining to advanced composites, leading companies will share how circular design is being applied in practice. Delegates will leave with practical strategies they can apply directly to machine shops, production lines and tooling supply chains. From carbide recycling to energy-efficient machining processes, Advanced Engineering will showcase how the sector can achieve both sustainability and productivity.
For subcontractors, understanding and recording alloy composition at the point of machining helps ensure swarf is segregated for maximum recycling value rather than
downgraded into mixed scrap. DESIGNING OUT WASTE IN METALWORKING
By 2030, it could add £82 billion to the economy and cut 33 million tonnes of CO₂ annually. For machine tool builders, cutting tool suppliers and subcontractors, this presents an opportunity: reduce cost by reclaiming metals, secure supply by recycling strategic materials, and create new value in remanufacture and repair. MATERIAL PASSPORTING IN MACHINING A key enabler of circularity is transparency. Digital material passports that track composition, sourcing and recyclability will become essential across the supply chain. In machining, this could mean detailed records of billet alloys, tool materials and even swarf recovery, enabling accurate carbon accounting and simplifying recycling. For toolmakers, this is already practical. Carbide inserts and drills contain tungsten and cobalt, both critical raw materials. When returned and recycled, they can be transformed into new tools with a fraction of the environmental impact. With proper passporting, that recovery becomes measurable and commercially attractive.
Circularity only works if design decisions are made early. For machine tool builders, this means creating equipment that can be refurbished, upgraded and dismantled for parts at the end of life. For component designers, it means selecting alloys that are easier to recycle, reducing unnecessary material removal and specifying features that allow reuse. Precision engineering has always prized efficiency. Embedding recyclability at the design stage ensures today’s parts and machines do not become tomorrow’s waste, while also unlocking cost savings through
reduced scrap rates, near-net-shape production and additive–subtractive hybrid processes. REGULATION RESHAPING METALS SUPPLY
Policy is moving quickly. The EU Critical Raw Materials Act sets binding targets for domestic extraction, processing and recycling of essential materials such as tungsten, cobalt and rare earths.
www.advancedengineeringuk.com
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PEOPLE OF UKMFG
THE FUTURE OF PRECISION ENGINEERING
STUART HILL Turning weapons into purpose Data for the year ending March 2024 recorded approximately 50,500 crimes involving a sharp instrument in England and Wales, with NHS data showing 3,900 of these crimes resulted in ‘hospital episodes’. Most heartbreaking of all, the Home Office reported 224 homicides involving a sharp object in the year ending March 2023. In the face of this tragedy and loss, one man is fighting back. Meet Stuart Hill and his award- winning company: Weapon Surrender. When Stuart left school and began temping at a local engineering business, little did he know where it would lead. “It was a monotonous job operating a machine,” he says. “However, I soon started fitting and setting the machine, and then I was running the area. I moved to a die- casting company for better pay but couldn’t see a career path. That’s when I took myself off to Dudley College of Technology.” Stuart spent a total of seven years accruing City & Guilds qualifications and a HNC in engineering subjects, an endeavour that led him to a sales engineer position and several subsequent promotions. In 2018, he joined Alphadrive Engineering Services as Commercial Director.
27 - 29 January 2026 FANUC UK, COVENTRY
Experience the very latest in factory automation and digital manufacturing – all focussed on driving the future of injection moulding and CNC machining.
We’ll be diving into big topics like: > Manufacturing a green future > Manufacturing and AI > Education and training in manufacturing
“Some of the work focused on destroying end-of-term armaments, specifically guns, for the MoD,” he says. “It gave me the idea of launching Weapon Surrender Ltd, helping the Home Office, Police and charities to remove knives from our streets, save lives and make communities safer.” Stuart’s holistic solution includes: the manufacture of sealed/tamperproof amnesty bins; periodic collection and cataloguing of contents; and subsequent destruction and recycling. He supports the service with a unique web portal that allows secure 24/7 user access to each bin location with live activity updates. As a point of note, RRJ Engineering Services in Willenhall, owned by Stuart’s business partner, is the manufacturing arm of Weapon Surrender.
Join us not just for ideas, but for actionable insights to become more competitive, sustainable, and future-ready.
“We’ve found a way to remove high volumes of knives from our streets, safely and efficiently.”
The company has already recycled around 25,000 knives, but this is only a fraction of what it could handle. “With help from the Home Office or the private sector, we’re looking to scale-up. One way or another I will grow this business because it’s in the interest of everyone.”
REGISTER HERE
www.fanuc.eu
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The automotive industry faces an unprecedented challenge: delivering high- performance, lightweight vehicles while meeting increasingly stringent sustainability targets. For many manufacturers, this has led to partnerships with advanced materials companies, using the most demanding testing grounds available — professional motorsports racing — to validate technologies that will eventually transform how everyday vehicles are built. Through rigorous testing on racetracks around the world, sustainable composite materials are no longer experimental concepts, but production-ready solutions poised to revolutionise mainstream RACING AS TECHNOLOGY INCUBATOR The collaboration between Swiss cleantech company Bcomp and Japanese composite specialist Tras exemplifies how racing partnerships create direct pipelines for sustainable innovation. Tras is one of Japan’s leading composite specialists and a 20-year collaborator of Suzuki’s motorsport teams. Originally, Tras used Bcomp composite materials to develop prototype bodywork for the Suzuki ECSTAR MotoGP team. This technical demonstration kick-started the collaboration between Tras and Bcomp, automotive manufacturing. FROM TRACK TO TARMAC: producing race-ready components for team Suzuki CN CHALLENGE for the 2024 and 2025 editions of the Suzuka 8 endurance race. This event is Japan’s premier motorcycle endurance event and a prominent round of the FIM Endurance World Championship. The race subjects both riders and machines to eight continuous hours of competition in intense summer heat, making it an ideal proving ground for advanced materials under extreme conditions. This rapid evolution from experimental applications to supplying natural fibre composite bodywork for high-profile racing programs in just two years demonstrates the
accelerated development cycle that makes racing a true testing ground for innovative materials. The Suzuki collaboration, featuring fenders, winglets, and fairings made from Bcomp’s flax fibre composites, proved that sustainable materials can withstand the punishing demands of endurance racing while delivering up to 85% CO2 reduction compared to traditional carbon fibre. Beyond Suzuki, Tras and Bcomp also developed a unique natural fibre composite body for the 2025 Toyota HiLux AXCR championship, demonstrating the versatility of sustainable composites in rally racing conditions, where impacts, vibrations, and environmental extremes test every component to the limit. ADVANCED MATERIAL ENGINEERING AND RACING PERFORMANCE METRICS The unique properties of Bcomp’s natural fibre composites, derived from flax fibres, enable engineering solutions that can match and even exceed traditional materials while delivering environmental benefits. They must meet uncompromising performance standards as milliseconds separate victory from defeat. Bcomp’s flax-based reinforcement fabric, ampliTex™ and its reinforcement grid, powerRibs™, have been continuously refined through racing collaborations. ampliTex™ is a woven fabric made from flax fibres that can be configured in a wide variety of patterns. When combined with resin, it creates lightweight, stiff composite panels used for larger, flatter surfaces like body panels, seat shells, and fairings. For additional reinforcement, powerRibs™ provides structural support that mimics leaf veins, strategically placed to achieve desired stiffness specifications in load-bearing areas of composite parts. This accelerated validation process has demonstrated exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratios comparable to thin-walled monolithic
ADVANCED MATERIAL ENGINEERING
carbon fibre parts while offering superior vibration-damping properties — particularly valuable in racing where drivers need to sustain speed comfortably, and in production vehicles where it creates quieter, more comfortable experiences for passengers. Beyond weight savings, the natural fibre composites exhibit ductile fracture behaviour with blunt edges, preventing the sharp debris generation associated with carbon fibre failures. This safety characteristic reduces racing downtime and has direct implications for production vehicle safety standards. MOTORSPORTS AS THE ULTIMATE VALIDATION GROUND Motorsports racing provides the most rigorous testing conditions for advanced materials. Racing partnerships create what engineers call “accelerated real-world testing,” where years of typical use are compressed into single racing seasons under extreme conditions. McLaren Racing successfully integrated Bcomp’s solutions into Lando Norris’s Formula 1 seat and bodywork, Škoda used ampliTex™ and powerRibs™ to create the Fabia RS Rally2 car bodywork at the Enyaq RS Race, and the DTM series implemented natural fibre components as mandatory specifications across all competitors. The strongest validation example is BMW’s collaboration. In 2019, Bcomp and BMW Motorsport pioneered the use of CO2 reduced materials in Formula E by using ampliTex™ and powerRibs™ materials to build a high-performance cooling shaft for the BMW iFE.20 race car.
FROM RACE TO ROAD How cutting-edge materials from the racetrack could decarbonise the school run
Machinery & Manufacturing invites Johann Wacht, Manager Business Development & Strategic Customer Relationships at Bcomp to explore.
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The 2022 BMW M4 GT4 brought the partners closer to the road, featuring more natural fibre parts than any GT race car to date — inside and out. This racing success transformed into BMW Group committing these materials to production road car exteriors within three years. When manufacturers and world-leading OEMs stake their competitive reputation on sustainable materials across diverse platforms, they create compelling proof points throughout the automotive supply chain, demonstrating that high performance and environmental responsibility are competitively advantageous. MANUFACTURING SCALABILITY AND INDUSTRY INTEGRATION Racing partnerships don’t just validate materials; they pioneer the manufacturing processes that enable mass production. Customer collaborations have enabled Bcomp to perfect production techniques that deliver consistent, high-quality results at both racing speeds and automotive volumes. ampliTex™ and powerRibs™ are now fully validated for large-scale integration into existing automotive production processes, with IATF 16949 certification, the industry’s most respected automotive quality standard. They offer UV and ageing resilience while maintaining racing-proven performance characteristics. The supply chain foundation also supports scalability. Bcomp sources flax from companies adhering to the Masters of Flax Fibre® certification scheme, ensuring traceability and quality. Flax›s low water requirements and drought resistance make it a resilient crop choice in the face of climate change, providing supply security for automotive manufacturers planning long-term
The automotive industry is witnessing accelerated adoption of racing-proven sustainable materials. The visibility and credibility generated by high-profile racing partnerships create market pull that extends beyond environmental considerations to performance differentiation. Recent announcements from major automotive manufacturers indicate this trend is accelerating. Beyond BMW Group’s commitment to natural fibre composites in interior and exterior parts of future vehicles, Volvo, CUPRA, and Polestar have already integrated these materials into the interior parts of series vehicles. This demonstrates how racing success continues to build confidence for broader applications For interiors, Bcomp’s thermoplastic natural fibre composites also offer circular economy benefits, with production scrap recyclable into base materials for second-life applications, which support automotive manufacturers’ sustainability targets and regulatory compliance strategies. PRODUCTION REALITY ACCELERATED BY RACING INNOVATION Racing partnerships represent more than technological collaboration, they’re driving innovations that can transform mass production and make the school run more sustainable. By demonstrating that high performance and environmental responsibility can coexist under the most demanding conditions, these partnerships are accelerating the adoption of technologies that will transform how everyday vehicles are designed, manufactured, and experienced by drivers worldwide. In the race toward sustainability, motorsports innovation will lead the way for automotive trends. www.bcomp.com
Diamond Tooling Solutions - Manufactured in the UK Contact us:
sustainable material strategies. RACING SUCCESS DRIVES AUTOMOTIVE ADOPTION
Tel: +44(0)1580 891662 info@dk-holdings.co.uk www.dk-holdings.co.uk
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leadership and management courses and now have the possibility of progressing to Level 3. The availability of a career path at the company aids staff retention in support of business continuity and success. Skills was a topic high up the agenda at a recent business roundtable hosted by DK Holdings. The event was organised by Katie Lam, MP for the Weald of Kent, and chaired by Baroness Stedman- Scott, a current member of the House of Lords. It brought together representatives from Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses and the Institute of Directors, alongside regional business leaders, to discuss current challenges for local SMEs. Notable attendees included the Rt Hon Sir Mel Stride MP, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. TRADE SECRETS Further points of discussion included barriers to trade, notably exporting. DK Holdings exports around 60% of its products to more than 130 countries, serving global customers in key markets that include aerospace, motorsport and renewable energy. “Brexit has been a challenge, making it harder for both ourselves and our customers in the EU, but we liaise closely with clients to make it work,” says John Emptage. “Now we have trade tariffs, which is clearly unhelpful for UK manufacturers exporting to the US.” Key to sustaining business in the face of adversity is the value that DK Holdings adds. The company does not compete at the off-the-shelf end of the diamond tooling market. Its strength lies in holistic, bespoke solutions development and serving customers as a valued technology partner. “We have 70 people here, including many talented, qualified and highly experienced diamond tooling design engineers,” he says. “This knowledge means we can advise and support customers in both new projects and project improvement initiatives, providing savings over the long term. That’s why our customers return to us time and time again. It’s a real differentiator.”
Manufacturing in the UK is not easy, particularly in recent times with a seemingly endless stream of hurdles created by uncontrollable factors: the Credit Crunch, Brexit, Covid-19, new global conflicts and trade tariffs. SME manufacturers, particularly those that export, need agility, ingenuity and a whole lot of resolve. However, UK manufacturing businesses are resilient, none more so than DK Holdings, which makes equally resilient precision-engineered diamond tooling at its advanced production facility in Kent. Central to the company’s formula for success is futureproofing through a long-standing culture of skills development and retention. Able to provide suitable testimony is John Emptage, the company’s Sales and Marketing Director, who progressed from YTS (Youth Training Scheme) recruit in 1987 to company director today. “I’m a massive advocate of vocational training,” he says. “I like to make youngsters aware that pathways other than university are available. The education system seems skewered towards university, but alternative routes can prove equally prosperous – and I’m a good example.” TALENT POOL DK Holdings currently has a committed group of two apprentices, supporting them through a tailored blend of in-house training and partnerships with local technical colleges. “I did a City & Guilds Apprenticeship, so I know the value this grounding can bring to a business,” says John Emptage. “Today, we’re even taking on apprentices in professions other than engineering, such as sales and marketing, compliance and CAD. Like many companies in our industry, we’ve got plenty of employees in their 50s and 60s, so ensuring a steady stream of new talent is imperative.” Professional development is also an active part of the business culture at DK Holdings. Some staff recently completed Level 2
MANUFACTURER SPOTLIGHT
A CULTURE OF SUCCESS
Machinery & Manufacturing chats with diamond tooling producer DK Holdings about more than 60 years of excellence and how the company plans to sustain its successful culture of UK manufacturing.
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TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Plenty of proactive initiatives are evident at DK Holdings. For instance, the company is an active member of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. In particular, it engages extensively with the chamber’s Kent & Medway Focus Group (KMFG), a networking and business group specifically for manufacturing and engineering organisations. KMFG helps the company gain access to peers, colleagues, sector specific information, advice and support. DK Holdings has also worked with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in Sheffield and the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Bristol. In fact, the company is a member of the Composites UK trade association, which helps it attend the annual JEC World exhibition in Paris - the globe’s biggest trade show for the composites industry. “Proactive efforts centring on our culture of in-house manufacturing, investment in new technologies, ongoing skills development, and engagement with regional and national business communities mean we continue to sustain our position as a leading UK producer and exporter of high-quality diamond tooling,” says John Emptage. “We’re also providing employment and training opportunities right here in Kent as part of our long-standing company strategy, which is paramount to success.” Balancing heritage in business involves preserving core values and traditions while embracing innovation to ensure long-term competitiveness and growth. “We remain focused on innovation, supporting our workforce, and serving both local and international markets with the DK quality for which we are renowned,” he concludes.
MEGA-Speed-Drill-Titan The double-edged solid carbide drill is specially designed for high-speed titanium machining and is the first choice for series production. The low build-up edge formation is achieved by a highly polished coating, which creates a low-friction surface and thus enables longer service life. With four guide chamfers for optimal roundness and a convex cutting edge for greater stability, the drill guarantees smooth and reliable machining.
‘We have 70 people here, including many talented, qualified and highly experienced diamond tooling design engineers’
INVEST TO PROGRESS Continuous investment in R&D and new machines is also vital. DK Holdings designs, develops and manufactures in-house at its four production workshops. On site can found an extensive range of fully automatic, high- precision CNC machines that make products autonomously. Providing high-end diamond tooling to sectors like aerospace and Formula 1 means there is no margin for error. ISO 9001 certification assures customer confidence regarding accuracy and quality. Of course, business hurdles continue to appear, notably the recent increase in employer National Insurance (NI) contributions. “We continue to face challenges – just like so many other SMEs – but through robust business models, fiscal discipline and the dedication of our staff, we have weathered them all.”
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WORKFORCE RESILIENCE
GENERATIONS AT WORK
THE MILLENNIAL EXPERIENCE Mentorship at FANUC is a two-way exchange. Jack gains insight from the experience of his colleagues like John and Neil, while they benefit from Jack’s fresh perspective and digital fluency. His curiosity encourages his mentors to reflect on their own practices and stay current with emerging technologies. reinforces that mentoring is not just about passing on knowledge – it’s about evolving together. Neil Weaver, reflecting on his experience, commented: This dynamic fosters adaptability and engagement across the team. It also “Jack’s curiosity makes you pause and think – why do we do it this way? Is there a better approach? That kind of curiosity is valuable. We encourage apprentices to try things, make mistakes and learn from them. It’s not just about technical skills, it’s about developing confidence and learning how to work as part of a team.”
How FANUC is turning age diversity into a business strength
manufacturing is FANUC, a global leader in automation. Jack Leonard, a 20-year- old apprentice; John Strisino, a 62-year- old electrical engineer; and Neil Weaver, a 35-year-old controls engineer, are demonstrating how cross-generational learning can redefine workplace development – boosting productivity, supporting business growth, and helping the industry tackle wider challenges such as the skills gap. THE GEN Z EXPERIENCE Jack is completing an Engineering Technician apprenticeship, delivered in partnership with MTC Training, which combines FANUC’s hands-on, industry-led experience with structured technical training from MTC’s expert trainers. He joined FANUC with a desire to learn about the industry and from the people in it. From the outset, he was immersed in a culture where collaboration is more than a value – it’s a way of working.
Supported by experienced colleagues like John and Neil, Jack has quickly developed both his technical and interpersonal skills. Apprentices are encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions and contribute to problem-solving discussions. The team’s flexibility allows everyone to evolve, whether they’re just starting out or decades into their career. Commenting on his apprenticeship, Jack Leonard said: “Learning from other generations has been a game-changer. Their deep understanding of robotics systems, control architectures and integration workflows goes far beyond what you get from textbooks. Working in parallel with the team has sharpened my ability to design and troubleshoot complex automation systems, all while making me more confident, technically capable and curious about pushing the boundaries of what our systems can do.”
Manufacturing is evolving fast, but one of its biggest challenges isn’t technology – it’s people. According to MAKE UK the sector is facing a shortfall of 47,000 skilled workers and in the rush to recruit, many companies overlook a powerful resource already on the shop floor: cross- generational learning. It’s an opportunity to transfer knowledge, strengthen teams and build a more resilient workforce. Recent research from MTC shows that 41% of the Baby Boomer generation (aged 60 to 66) working in manufacturing say their skills are going unused. Meanwhile, 91% of Generation Z (18-27) say they are willing to learn from older colleagues. An example of how this approach can redefine a workforce development in
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THE BABY BOOMER EXPERIENCE FANUC’s approach reflects a broader industry shift where apprenticeships are no longer seen as a secondary route, but as a vital part of workforce development. Today’s programmes offer a practical, immersive way to build skills and contribute meaningfully to business outcomes. Senior team members actively support apprentices, recognising the value they bring – not just in energy, but in ideas. John Strisino, added: “Working with apprentices like Jack keeps me sharp. After more than four decades in the industry, I’ve developed a rhythm to how I work – but Jack brings in new ways of thinking, especially around digital tools. It’s a two-way street: I get to keep learning, and I help him build the foundations of a strong career.” This cultural shift values diverse thinking. Younger workers often challenge norms, introduce new tools and help teams stay relevant The team’s training approach is flexible and hands-on, blending academic theory with real-world application. Jack thrives in this environment, supported by mentors who also value experiential learning. Together, they’ve built a responsive, practical training model shaped by project pace and technology. At FANUC, apprenticeships are a cornerstone of long-term success. Delivered in partnership with MTC Training, these programmes combine FANUC’S hands-on, industry-led experience with MTC Training’s structured technical training to create a powerful foundation for growth. The culture of respect, collaboration and continuous learning empowers individuals and strengthens performance. Jack’s journey shows how supported apprenticeships can shape confident, capable professionals – and set a benchmark for the wider industry. www.fanuc.eu in a fast-changing industry. TAILORED LEARNING FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT
WORKFORCE RESILIENCE
‘Manufacturing is evolving fast, but one of its biggest challenges isn’t technology – it’s people.’
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PARTNERSHIP PRIDE As a trusted partner and UK representative of Japan-based machine tool manufacturers Makino and Okuma for 50+ years, NCMT has created a strong platform upon which to build its reputation. “Long-standing relationships with our principals provide customer confidence in the solutions we develop. The machine portfolio of these two brands covers every market, backed by long-standing aftersales support and a dedicated network of 30+ service engineers. It means we can be our customers’ engineering partner for life.” In a recent development, NCMT introduced an optional five-year extended service warranty for new and existing Makino and Okuma machines. Says Jonathan: “The warranty demonstrates our confidence in these brands: we have machines from both Makino and Okuma still holding tolerance after 30 years of service. Moreover, buying patterns are changing. There’s more focus on whole life costs and unforeseen expenditure, so we’ve adapted our services to align with evolving investment strategies. Buyers can acquire machines with confidence, knowing that the price they pay will include five years of trouble-free production. Customers can concentrate on producing parts with a known ROI.” ADDING AND SUBTRACTING While NCMT has a long history of subtractive machining, more customers are expanding their capabilities through the introduction of additive manufacturing. “Tritone is the perfect partner to help us deliver synergies into the marketplace. Its production-ready, powder-free MoldJet technology provides clean, easy-to- use, environmentally friendly additive manufacturing with high accuracy and repeatability across materials that extend from titanium and gold to ceramics.”
hitting the pause button and medical ramping up exponentially. It prompted our diversification into additive manufacturing and the enhancement of our automation offer.” Five years down the line, NCMT is not only still here, it’s more resilient and relevant than ever before. Many things have changed but a key constant is the company’s long- standing customer-first focus, which has led to numerous long-term partnerships based on quality, value and support. Part of the credit must go the new management team’s supportive and collaborative approach. “We’ve got a fantastic group of talented individuals at NCMT, whom we grant the space and freedom to develop optimal engineering solutions,” says Jonathan. THE RACE IS ON Skills are clearly critical, not just for NCMT but industry as a whole. This criterion is among the reasons that the company is a sponsor of the University of Wolverhampton Racing (UWR) team, which competes in events like the Prototype Cup and the AR Morgan Challenge. NCMT’s sponsorship reinforces its commitment to nurturing engineering talent and innovation by providing students with real-world engineering opportunities and hands-on experience. From its own perspective, NCMT established an apprenticeship scheme over 10 years ago. Four new apprentices joined in September 2025, focusing on future careers in automation, machine customisation, applications and service support. “New talent is vital because there’s a skills gap in the market that we need to fill ourselves. We’ve also set up an in-house training school at our Coventry facility, where our youngsters get to work on current and previous-generation machines. It’s important for our apprentices to realise that some machines in the field are older than them.”
COVER INTERVIEW
Five years on from its MBO, Machinery & Manufacturing catches up with NCMT Managing Director Jonathan Smart to talk diversification and market gains at this progressive machine tool supplier. Jonathan Smart has come a long way since he first joined NCMT in August 1995. Working through busy roles in the company’s Service Support and Commercial Departments, an opportunity arose that he couldn’t refuse. A management buyout saw Jonathan become NCMT’s Managing Director in February 2020. “We had some really good ideas about moving the company forward, but no sooner had we taken over, the Covid-19 pandemic arrived,” he says. “It was a challenging time. Customers needed our immediate support in keeping production running. Our key market sectors changed overnight with aerospace SMART THINKING HELPS NCMT OUTPACE MARKET
‘New talent is vital because there’s a skills gap in the market that we need to fill ourselves.’
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Of course, a constant stream of innovation is vital in the machine tool business and there’s no lack of new developments at NCMT. For instance, the third generation of Makino VIPER grinding machines will arrive this year, while a number of new machines have recently become available, including: the Okuma MS 320H compact, high-speed horizontal machining centre for small-to- medium batch sizes; a new version of the Okuma LB4000 EX III lathe with milling tools, Y axis and optional sub-spindle; and the Okuma LB3000 lathe enhanced with ARMROID automation and 12-position turret for batch flexibility. From the Makino stable, new products include the A630iT horizontal machining centre with integrated intelligence and the Makino f6 vertical machining centre. STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS To help UK manufacturers take advantage of these technologies, NCMT harbours high hopes for the Government’s new Industrial Strategy. “We all know that previous headline policies over the years have led to little more than missed opportunities, but we’re really hopeful this one will be different,” says Jonathan. “We welcome any initiative that releases funding for training, reduces energy costs, and opens doors to trade and growth.” Jonathan even appeared on the BBC Midlands Today television programme to speak live about the new Industrial Strategy. “We’re really passionate about UK manufacturing,” he concludes. “Adding our voice to others means those with political influence are more likely to listen. We’re currently seeing high-tech markets like medical, aerospace and defence start to invest, but others are maintaining or rebuilding machines rather than replacing. We need better and easier access to funding so customers can move forward confidently with new investments.” www.ncmt.co.uk
Thinking Differently about Finance
AUTOMATED FUTURE Although a long-standing supplier of automation for markets such as aerospace and medical, NCMT has broadened its offer to encompass highly versatile solutions that also benefit the subcontract market. “Running unmanned out of hours provides easy wins for customers and greatly improves ROI on machine tools,” says Jonathan. A wide range of automation solutions is available. Indeed, NCMT currently has four FMS scheduled for delivery over next 12-18 months, plus numerous stand-alone robot solutions for machine tending, and a multi- robot cell. GET THE GREEN LIGHT NCMT is also seeing market demand for sustainable solutions, not simply for environmental reasons but also ahead of government and/or industry regulations that might manifest down the line. “We support customers with all forms of technological improvements to try and reduce energy consumption, optimise processes and ensure leaner manufacturing for greater competitiveness. We see a significant green focus from both Makino and Okuma, with more innovations in development.”
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new ventures | capital release | mergers & acquisitions | asset investments
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