As we all know, we are in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Industry 4.0, where connected, fully automated machines that communicate with each other enable smarter and more efficient production. AP&T, a leader in modular-based linear robots, sees a great deal of potential in the changes currently taking place in the manufacturing industry. “The technology is developing quickly, and opportunities for new applications that can improve our customers’ competitiveness in the global market are growing as well,” says AP&T Product Manager Automation Martin Sahlman. One example is AP&T’s [...]

Roemheld SCS vices are ideal for securing workpieces during 5-axis machining. New, compact workholding systems that are well suited to metalcutting operations on 5-axis machining centres have been introduced by Roemheld UK. They are manufactured by the German group's Hilma division in Hilchenbach. The design of the fixed-jaw SCS vice is compact and allows good accessibility of tools to the component. It means that five-sided machining can be achieved without collision using short standard tools, lowering costs and improving workpiece accuracy due to the generation of less vibration. [...]

This quarter our spotlight turns to the topical subject of recruitment within the engineering sector. With unemployment falling to the lowest level for decades (still below 3.8%), engineering firms are facing the here and now problem of the skills shortage. Glen Callum Associates Ltd joined the MMMA in 2017 as their preferred recruitment partner / advisor and is active in helping the members quest to attract and hire into the sector… Can you tell us about the company? Glen Callum Associates Ltd was founded 20 years ago by Glen Shepherd [...]

The MMMA ‘Metalworking Village’ at MACH 2020 will be the largest area taken by the MMMA and has already exceeded expectations of members attending, with 23 confirmed and more to be confirmed. As the original space for the ‘Metalworking Village’ has been filled, as and when more space is requested by members, additional space will to be requested. This is a fantastic result for the Association and makes the ‘Metalworking Village’ space taken to around 650 square metres. This is the fourth largest in the entire exhibition halls. At present, [...]

Suitable for operating pressures up to 500 bar and temperatures to 200°C (optionally 250°C), a new range of compact hydraulic cylinders with block-type body and high load capacity has been introduced by Roemheld for use in punching and forming applications. The new Block Cylinder S (strong) is a further development of the manufacturer's proven cylinder range. Hydraulically double-acting, it is ideal for linear movements with demanding force requirements, as it is able to withstand high loads, including side loads which are absorbed by piston and rod guide rings. These also [...]