The iconic Olympic Torch has been manufactured on equipment supplied by Prima Power, the machinery division of the Prima Industrie Group specialising in laser and sheetmetal processing machines.
The Premier Group (TPG), a Coventry-based supplier of turnkey engineering and manufacturing solutions for the transport field, used Prima Power machines to cut the holes and weld the parts
One of the most important elements of the torch, designed by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby working in partnership with The Premier Group are the 8,000 holes running the length of the body. These holes are both symbolic and practical as they represent the 8,000 torchbearers who will carry the Olympic Flame on its journey around the UK from 19th May to 27th July 2012, when the Games will be opened at the Olympic Stadium.
From a practical perspective, the holes offer visibility of the internal parts of the torch and of the burner system which will keep the Olympic Flame alive, as well as reduce weight and ensure heat is quickly dissipated without being conducted down the handle.
“Because of its symbolic meaning,” explains Ezio Basso, Prima Industrie's managing director, Prima Power Division, “the number of holes on the torch is a necessary requirement. To cut 8,000 holes rapidly and accurately was a challenge but our Syncrono 2D laser machine with its kinematic machine head structure and numerical control allowed Premier to reach very high speeds even with the complex trajectories of the torch holes.”
For strength, lightness, good tensile strength and heat resistance, the torch's construction is derived from aluminium sheet metal blanks cut by Premier and formed using a special pressing tool. The Premier Group uses Prima Power 3D laser technology to weld the parts of the torch together in a smooth, seamless join, and to cut holes in the welded areas.
Both welding and cutting operations on the torch are conducted on a Prima Power Optimo 3D laser machine with Vivida technology. This machine can be easily converted from cutting to welding through a quick change of the head attachment, so a single machine is can be used for multiple operations.
“It is fascinating,” concluded Mr Basso, “how state of the art laser technology, using light in a very modern way, contributes to create the Olympic flame – an ancient form of light representing the most traditional and noble of sports competitions. We are extremely proud that our technology helps The Premier Group manufacture this outstanding and beautiful object.”
Prima Power
www.primapower.com
PHOTO CAPTION: Lord Coe, chairman of LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games) with directors of The Premier Group, George Mollison (left) and Gez Halton
