The latest automated manufacturing technology has been installed at Mettis Aerospace’s new factory in Redditch.

In less than six months, the site has gone from planning to being fully equipped.

Heller and Seco Tools worked in partnership with Mettis to develop a system that uses the latest technology to deliver advanced levels of automation, enabling the company to reduce lead times and costs for its customers.

A combination of 4 and 5-axis horizontal machining centres have been installed at the new factory – connected to them are Fastems Flexible Manufacturing System units that will load and remove products automatically, enabling the machines to work 24/7 with optimal process flow.

Also integrated into the facility is a cutting-edge assembly line that is automated to ensure the orders –delivered to customers are as intended. The assembly line includes light scanners which measure products much more quickly than traditional CMM machines, as well as vision systems, in-process gauging and more.

Mettis has already started running tests to ensure production trials start on time.

The company has recently announced its annual results for 2018, with group sales revenue up 10% year-on-year to £82.5 million.

CEO Gordon Fraser commented: “Despite ongoing economic uncertainty in the UK, at Mettis, we continue to harness new ways to succeed and grow by driving performance and innovating. We continue to invest in new equipment, technologies, facilities and people to ensure that we can take full advantage of the many opportunities created by this growth.”

Mettis also hosted the ‘Midlands Engine’ recently along with representatives from the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and 5G Consortium.

The Midlands is home to 800,000 large and small businesses, and the Midlands Engine is dedicated to tapping into the region’s huge potential and driving global success by forging strong partnerships.

The organisation is a coalition of councils, combined authorities, local enterprise partnerships, universities and businesses across the region, actively working with Government to build a collective identity in order to present the Midlands as a competitive and compelling offer that is attractive at home and overseas.

The Midlands Engine is focused on several key areas including transforming the transport network; making sure residents thrive by developing the skills needed in the area, growing international trade and investment; increasing innovation and enterprise as well as creating a great place to live, visit, learn and work.

During the visit, Mettis showed the group its facilities including the state-of-the-art laboratory, extensive forging operations and new factory.

Mettis Aerospace
www.mettis-aerospace.com

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