Express invests in the future with new Mazak machine

The Team Valley-based company has acquired an additional Mazak Integrex i-400 multi-tasking machine tool which will form part of a new manufacturing cell producing valve components for the oil and gas sector. The new machine will combine the operations of two existing machines into a single process, offering an immediate and significant production improvement.

Express Oil and Gas has a long history with Mazak and, as recently as 2014, acquired an additional number of large multi-tasking centres, including the first Integrex e-800 series machine to be installed in the UK.

Neil Ransom, commercial director at Express Oil and Gas commented: “We have a longstanding policy of continuous improvement in our manufacturing operations and are constantly analysing our production processes to reduce costs wherever possible.

“The investment in the Integrex multi-tasking machine will streamline our production process allowing cycle time improvements across a variety of subsea components. The efficiency benefits will enable us to remain profitable and competitive during this challenging period for the oil and gas market.”

He continued: “Our strategy, to invest in the latest machining technology will ensure we can deliver the best value option for our customers and, as the market recovers from downturn, we will be in a strong position to offer the most efficient capacity available in the precision machining sector.”

Mark Ireland, area sales manager for Yamazaki Mazak added: “Mazak has an excellent relationship with Express Oil and Gas who are a benchmark company in the North East for its use of state-of-the-art machining technology.

“The Integrex i-series is our flagship multi-tasking machine and the new manufacturing cell is a classic example of Mazak’s ‘Done-in-one’ machining philosophy, which aims to streamline production processes by reducing the number of machines and set-ups required to make a component.

"We worked closely with Express to develop a new more efficient approach to machining an existing core product, which has helped them maintain margins, whilst satisfying end user demand for unprecedented cost reductions.

“We’re delighted to be able to assist Express Oil and Gas in the development of its new valve manufacturing cell and we look forward to continuing the long and close relationship between the two companies.”

Yamazaki Mazak www.mazakeu.com

Express Oil and Gas www.express-engineering.co.uk