CNC machining
their goals. Now, when the shopfloor receives a frame, the repeatability is going to be much better.” The new machine will be housed in a state- of-the-art production facility that is also home to the company’s new global design and R&D hub. It forms a key part of Norton’s strategic growth plan on its journey to becoming a leading player in luxury and high-performance motorcycles. At the heart of the new facility lie rigorous quality controls. “When I came here production was in a Grade 2 listed building and fabrication was in a shed. Now, bikes won’t leave factory unless everything is perfect even down to paint defects or slight scratches. If we find anything it goes back to be reworked.” “The core purpose remains frame machining, but we have been able to also introduce detail parts onto the machine as well, such as swing arms that are billeted from aluminium. The VTC is more than capable.” The Mazak has had an almost revolutionary effect on Norton’s productivity and the company’s ability to service bikes once they leave the factory. “We’ve been able to massively take out production time. Previously with all the checking and adjusting we were really only able to make small numbers. With the Mazak and the pre- welding, we think we can do 30 per day and with more accuracy.” “The Mazak has transformed what we are doing but it’s important we don’t lose sight of our heritage and our traditions. We build-to-order and our focus will always be on quality rather than output. The Mazak has been crucial in helping us blend old manufacturing techniques with new ones, keeping our traditions whilst moving into the 21st Century.” n
with all the variances, from the skill of the welder to the time of year.” The TVS takeover gave Norton much greater access to technical input which was invaluable when the company began planning for potential new motorbikes. “One idea is a cast frame and, instead of welding detailed components into the frame, we could machine the details into the casting which gives us much higher tolerances.” Norton’s commitment to only using the highest quality equipment led them to Yamazaki Mazak. “We looked at various options, but we wanted to be seen to be investing in the best available machine,” says Adam. “Mazak are the kind of people we want to be doing business with.” Norton specified a VTC 800/30SLR, manufactured in nearby Worcester, which has a high capacity working area and a wide door opening making it ideal for larger workpieces, such as motorbike frames. “The size of the frame meant we needed a big machine, but also one that could work to very high tolerances. It’s all about repeatability. The machine takes away manual process. Now every single dimension will be within 0.2 mm of each other. We’ve tightened tolerances up by 80% whereas previously there was 6 mm of difference at times from one frame to another.” Adam continues: “The shopfloor is my customer. We can measure everything to microns in temperature-controlled facilities. Nothing is going to assembly now unless it is right. I have to give them a good pass to ensure they can meet
www.mazakeu.co.uk nortonmotorcycles.com
Machinery & Manufacturing 16
Powered by FlippingBook