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
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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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