PLANE TALK Paris Air Show Special - PLUS: North West Aerospace Alliance
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PLANE TALK
SUMMER 2019
Paris Air Show
Special
PLUS:
Paris Air Show details | The latest on SC21 | Member News |
The latest from The Isle of Man | What’s happening with NATEP
© SIAE 2017 - Anthony Guerra & Alex Marc
© SIAE 2017 - REA
NWAA Chairman’s NWAA Chief Executive’s
CONTENTS summer statement summer statement
By Neil McKay By Dr David Bailey
02 Chairman’s Statement The political climate in the U.K. continues to Some of the major players will be actively The second quarter of 2019 is going to be an In my view, following the UK’s decision We are delighted to hear that UK
be perplexing, evidencing a Brexit uncertainty looking to establish new supplier relationships exciting period for the Northwest Aerospace to leave the European Union, it is more Government will support the UK Aerospace
at least until October and more likely beyond whilst others are questioning existing ones Alliance. important than ever that companies develop and Defence Supply Chain with almost £25
03 Chief Executive’s Statement and so the opportunities for competitive and Million of funding for both NATEP 3 and the
pervading a stagnancy in government policy new customers in international markets whilst
and economic impact that will be prevalent innovative companies is clearly there. We held our sixth Annual Conference recently working hard to maintain strong relationships SC21 Competitiveness & Growth Programme.
04 NWAA Annual Conference throughout this year. to be followed by our exhibition at the Paris with our European colleagues.
I was particularly pleased with how the North International Airshow 2019, the world’s largest NATEP (the National Aerospace Technology
Meanwhile, more globally, there have been West Cluster collaborated at Farnborough aerospace trade show. We will be working harder than ever to Exploitation Programme) will receive its third
08 Paris Air Show Update round of funding to support UK Aerospace
encouraging market upsurges in the U.S. last year and we are keen to improve on that connect companies with new customers by
and China but this is coupled with increasing progressive approach when we display our The theme for our annual NWAA conference using our networks to bring global customers Suppliers with funding for technology projects.
10 Member News volatility and trade tensions between these talents and attributes in Paris at this gathering. was ‘UK Aerospace and Defence 2019 - to our stand.
two massive trading forces. The imposition Preparing for a New Era.’ NWAA has led the pilot programme for the
of tariffs and other punitive measures create There will undoubtedly be a lot of attention We are extremely pleased to announce that SC21 Competitiveness & Growth Programme
12 SC21 Competitiveness
uncertainty to the negotiated outcome but will and interest in our group of companies This conference explored how the UK the Prime aerospace and defence companies to prove the process (whilst supporting our
& Growth News ultimately conclude with positive results over because of the national lead we have Aerospace and Defence Sectors in 2019 will in our region have committed to attending members) and we will be ideally positioned to
the mid to long term in my opinion. collectively taken in the S.C.21 C & G be shaped by new geo-political pressures, the show with us. As such NWAA will be support more companies as this new national
15 Member News programme. This was starkly evident last year the speed of technology and innovation and hosting procurement representatives from BAE programme launches this summer. Both of
The aerospace industry is greatly influenced but that attention will be even more focussed the need to maintain a competitive advantage Systems, MBDA Missile Systems, Rolls Royce these programmes receive huge amounts of
by global trade and therefore is a major in Paris since we are a year further down that over the global competition that would like to and Safran who will hold one-to-one meetings help from our regional Primes and, on behalf
16 NATEP News recipient of healthy trading climates that road and no other region or grouping have win a share of the work from the UK. with our exhibitors on the NWAA stand. of NWAA members, I would like to thank them
should emerge from this battle of wills between started that journey with significance yet. So for all of their support.
18 Member News the two blocks. there will be interest in how we go about our We were delighted to be able to bring It is also important that the Lancashire Local
excellence deployment successes and failures keynote speakers from global customers such Enterprise Partnership and Aerospace As ever, if any of you would like me to visit
The Paris Air Show 2019 is therefore taking etc. as BAE Systems, Leonardo and Bombardier. Lancashire will be attending the show with us, your facilities, as it is the best way for me to
20 Isle of Man News place at a crucial time in geo-political to identify opportunities to support companies get to know your organisation and represent
terms and is well placed in bringing the The region’s primes have been extremely Our guests also learnt from arguably the in the region in terms of investment, trade, you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
23 Member News global aerospace community together supportive for this event and will be strongly world’s foremost consultancy, McKinsey & technology and skills.
enabling new partnerships and growing represented on the North West stand Company, how they think the aerospace Thank you to all those who attended our sixth
existing relationships to take advantage of throughout the event. They will meet with and defence markets will be impacted by the Furthermore, NWAA will work closely with Annual Conference and visited us in Paris for
27 Key Dates the opportunities that will inevitably avail the supply chain companies and assist with pressures of Brexit, Trump and global trade. Lancashire to look for opportunities for new this hugely important year in our industry.
themselves beyond this volatile period. the outward display of the NW Cluster of inward investment to the region. NWAA will
28 Member News Excellence to the global community through Of course, NWAA is busily preparing for Paris be attending the most important Aerospace
As usual for the largest show on the calender, our S.C.21 C&G activity including their International Air Show 2019 at Le Bourget. event in Europe this year, with all of its
all of the major sectors of aerospace will be experiences of it. NWAA will again be hosting a range of stakeholders, with a strong message that the
31 Meet the Board present both military and civil, weaponry, exhibitors on the North West Aerospace North West’s aerospace and defence sector is
systems and engines. The business rivalry The regional authority are also present to Alliance stand. most certainly ‘open for business.’
between Airbus and Boeing will be in sharp support these business thrusts. Lancashire
focus given the recent difficulties experiences County Council are always a keen and able
by the latter who undoubtedly will come back organisation in pursuance of our collective
strongly at this event. business ambitions at major events such as this.
The supply chain for all aerospace business So, all in all we are supremely ready to step
lines will be a crucial area of attention this up our activities from last year’s high and
year with all of the primes concerned with build on the way we can demonstrate to the
abilities to hit and maintain challenging rates global aerospace community our world class
YOUR CONTENT whilst reducing costs. and collaborative approach to excellence
that delivers competitive and innovative
The NWAA welcomes the
Please forward all content for future
technology and performance to our customers
to the highest standards of quality and following new members…
editions of Plane Talk to our editors at satisfaction.
Freshfield, Ben Hewes and Paul Tustin.
KTL Tooling Science & Technology
nwaa@freshfield.com Burnley, Lancashire Facilities Council (STFC)
OUR STAKEHOLDERS www.ktltooling.com stfc.ukri.org
01772 888400
2 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 3
NWAA News NWAA News
Thank you to our
conference sponsors:
Platinum Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
“The NWAA
Annual Conference
always provides
great networking Silver Sponsors:
opportunities and a
range of insightful
presentations from
industry leaders.’’
Quote from delegate
NWAA Conference:
a new era for aerospace
NWAA Members gathered at the Annual This year’s Platinum Sponsor – MSP – in a Of particular interest, the conference learned Glyn Complin, UK Engineering Director at
Conference held at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel on presentation delivered by Peter Hammond, that the aerospace and defence sectors would Heroux-Devtek, the second of this year’s
16th May. Technical Director, focussed on ‘Breaking the need to increase the pace of change. Gold Sponsors, outlined the ‘Challenges for
Mould in Aerospace Manufacture.’ Ideagen’s Senior Sales Consultant, Greig Future Landing Gear Development’ in his
The conference was themed around ‘Preparing Duncan, presented to the conference as one presentation to the Conference.
for a New Era’ and explored how the UK Peter gave a fascinating presentation on the of the 2019 Gold Sponsors, on the topic of
aerospace and defence sectors in 2019 will changes the supply chain needs to make in ‘Taking a Risk-Based Approach to Supply Glyn described the technical challenges of
be shaped by new geo-political pressures, order to manufacture parts at ever increasing Chain Management.’ designing and manufacturing landing gear
the speed of technology and innovation and rates. systems. Of particular interest, was the insight
the need to maintain a competitive advantage Greig showed how risk is an important aspect the conference received in the challenge
over global competition. Simon Jewell, Strategy Director for BAE of every business and, through a unique of moving from traditional systems to more
“The conference went Systems – Air, presented on ‘Future Fit: example of an extreme mountaineering electric landing gear systems.
very well with good During the morning session, the conference
heard the very latest global aerospace and
Preparing for the 2020s and Beyond.’ challenge, how risk can be managed.
Delegates heard from Simon Barker, Vice
speakers and a good defence market forecasts from Dominic Simon’s presentation covered an overview Nichola Robinson, Supply Chain Director at President Government Affairs at Leonardo
Maxwell, Associate Partner for McKinsey & of the business and its key programmes Bombardier gave her presentation, ‘Supply whose presentation ‘Leonardo: Prosperity Built
mix of interaction. I Company, one of the world’s most respected including the new Team Tempest programme. Chain – Collaboration for a Competitive on Intelligent Partnerships.’
particularly liked the consultancies. Simon strongly emphasised that a partnering
approach is required to ensure the delivery of
Future.’ Nichola provided a very positive view
of Bombardier’s current position, with solid Simon gave a fascinating overview of the
Mentimeter instant Dominic provided an excellent overview of the a cost-effective series of solutions that creates market positions, unique capabilities, and a breadth and depth of capability within the
Leonardo business, one of the world’s top 10
polling app” hot topics in the aerospace industry ranging
from how the supply chain navigates the
new opportunities for the supply chain. strong order book.
aerospace and defence businesses.
turbulence in the demand for aircraft through Nichola was confident that they would see Simon gave the conference into the
Quote from delegate to winning the war for new talent. strong growth in the Aero-structures business innovations taking place within the helicopter
with the market forecast increasing from $50 sector including tilt-rotors and unmanned air
Billion to $61 Billion over a 10 year period. vehicles.
4 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 5
NWAA News NWAA News
“The NWAA annual conference
is a diary essential, interesting,
thought provoking and
excellent for networking with
industry peers.”
Quote from delegate
Each group provided feedback to the whole
conference, again improving networking and
also generating an interesting debate about
He described the increasing drive towards the key conference theme – Preparing for a
dual-use technology and the innovations New Era. The volunteers to feedback from
transforming the future of vertical take-off and each group did an excellent job engaging
landing aircraft. everyone in the theme.
Of most interest was Simon’s view of how The sixth NWAA Annual conference was
Leonardo will develop competitive advantage closed using a mobile phone-based real time
through intelligent partnering with a wide voting platform to ask the audience for their
range of stakeholders, citing the example of feedback on the conference. It was clear
how the South West’s aerospace and defence that the attendees voted overwhelmingly that
industry is collaborating around innovation the conference had met or exceeded their
and skills. objectives, and also that the new interactive
style of conference was supported.
Following a buffet lunch in the extensive
exhibition area, the conference then took part
in an interactive session led by the North West
Aerospace Alliance. Delegates were split up
into small groups with facilitators and scribes
and were posed a series of questions that “This year’s annual conference
were discussed in the groups.
was a huge success – more
The discussion was themed around supply opportunities for networking
chain performance, supply chain structure
and the increasing digitalisation of the and interaction through
supply chain. The interactive sessions helped
individuals to network by forcing discussion
the instant polling app”
within the groups and with facilitators who
engaged everyone in the discussions.
Quote from delegate
6 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 7
Paris Air Show Update Paris Air Show Update
Woodford Engineering Aerospace Lancashire, Silcoms Ltd
Consultancy (UK) Limited Lancashire Enterprise
Partnership Ltd
WEC is a medium-sized independent Aerospace Lancashire is showcasing Silcoms Ltd is the United Kingdom’s leading
company offering a unique civil and opportunities available in the UK’s largest supplier of machined rings to the aero engine
military aircraft systems expert capability concentration of aerospace and engineering industry. The company manufactures, using
founded on decades of experience in the companies. Lancashire is number one in the lean manufacturing techniques and the latest
fluid, mechanical, electrical and avionics UK for aerospace activity with over 500 CNC 5 axis technology, rings, casings, seals,
systems departments of aircraft design office aerospace supply companies and 13,000 shrouds and segments for customers in Europe
organisations. Offices in Manchester and employed making it the world’s 4th largest and Asia.
Hyde Group NATEP
Flying the Bristol. AS9100D accredited. aerospace cluster.
We specialise in producing complex ring
flag at the Hyde Group is a leading engineering
service provider specialising in design and
NATEP is an AGP initiative led by ADS. It is
a UK-wide programme delivered with the
BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, Safran Nacelles
are located in Lancashire and the world’s
products under AS9100 approval, made
from nickel ‘superalloys’, titanium, stainless
Paris air
manufacture solutions. Offering a complete support of Regional Aerospace Alliance most advanced UAV, the Taranis, is also steel, and aluminium. The company’s core
range of services from discrete work packages organisations in England (Farnborough built in the county. The Lancashire Advanced competence is for components in the size
to full turnkey solutions, Hyde is trusted by the Aerospace Consortium, Midlands Aerospace Manufacturing and Energy Cluster of three range 400 mm to 1800 mm diameter. Silcoms
show world’s most prestigious OEMs and tier one
suppliers across a range of highly regulated
industries.
Alliance, North West Aerospace Alliance
and West of England Aerospace Forum) and
in the devolved regions by Invest Northern
enterprise zones across four sites incorporates
both the Samlesbury Aerospace and Warton
Aviation Enterprise Zones adjacent to BAE
offers a complete service including, design
and procurement of forgings, kitting and the
control of specialist, NADCAP approved,
Ireland, Scottish Enterprise and the Welsh Systems’ operations. treatments and sub-tiers.
Established in 1968, Hyde Group is a Government.
The 53rd Paris International Air Show will privately-owned UK based international
take place in less than a month, and the business with access to more than 20 discrete NATEP supports companies in aerospace
NWAA has ensured members attending the manufacturing facilities. Our multi-skilled to develop innovative technologies, in
show will be flying the flag for the region. workforce consists of over 1400 technical collaborative Projects, supported by higher
personnel, enabling us to offer access to a tier companies. This is enabled through grant
This year the NWAA has organised for the flexible and comprehensive service. funding, with technical and management
presence on the stand of representatives support to help companies accelerate their
from some of the leading Prime aerospace technology development towards market
manufacturing businesses. readiness
These include BAE Systems, Rolls Royce,
Safran and MBDA Missile Systems and Unilathe Ltd A&G Precision Velocity Composites
will mean NWAA exhibitors can arrange
exclusive one-to-one meetings with these key Unilathe is a leading supplier of high integrity A&G have over 30 years’ experience Our aim at Velocity Composites is very
players in the sector. machined, fabricated and engineered in the manufacture and supply of fully simple: to reduce the operational costs of
products and services to quality global treated precision machined components, our customers by providing engineered
The NWAA is also hosting a networking markets. manufactured from a broad range of raw kits that reduce all forms of waste from the
event on Tuesday, June 18 from 3pm at materials, supplying OEMs, and Tiers 1 composites supply chain, including material
its location in Hall 2B, Stand F172. Any Unilathe completed the NMCL assessment customers in both military and civil aerospace efficiency, process time, excess stock, logistics
members wishing to join the NWAA at this in Q1 2018 to validate the robustness of the programs. A&G are a first year SC 21 Gold and part-to-part variation. This allows our
event are welcome to attend.
Oxley Group Teledyne CML existing internal business excellence plan Award Winning Supplier and following customers to focus on their core business
10:TEN, the program has enabled Unilathe substantial capital investment in increased of part manufacture and meet the global
David Bailey, NWAA Chief executive will Oxley is a world class provider of high Teledyne CML Composites is a specialist to better measure Quality, Cost, Delivery, capability and recent acquisitions A&G are challenges around new aircraft programmes,
also be available at the NWAA stand performance LED lighting for military and manufacturer of composite components and Flexibility, Technology and the customers able to offer an Integrated Manufacturing aircraft production rate increases and the
throughout the week. commercial aerospace applications. The assemblies for commercial and defence experience. The program enables Unilathe to and Surface Treatments Capability. A&G are cost challenges around the volume growth in
range comprises of a suite of external aerospace customers. apply best practices across all sectors, leading committed to taking the business to a new level aerospace composite materials.
The opposite NWAA members had lighting including navigation, anti-collision, to greater stability and sustained growth for within the industry and are strategically placed
confirmed their attendance at the Paris Air taxi and landing lights. Oxley designs We are an established manufacturer with an the company to dedicate capacity linked with Customers
Show as Plane Talk went to print: and manufactures LED Bulb Replacements excellent track record in the on-time supply of Long Term Agreements.
including a PMA approved Par 64 LED Bulb high quality composite components to OEM’s Unilathe’s mission is to deliver cost effective
Replacement, and Par 46 and 36 units. These and Tier1’s throughout the world, with all parts engineering excellence, on time and in full,
offer operators significantly reduced costs, adhering to customer specific approvals as driving industry standards in partnership with
increased operational lifetime & improved well as NADCAP for composites and NDT. our chosen customers
dispatch rates.
8 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 9
NWAA Member News NWAA Member News
Bespoke Turnkey Tooling Solutions
See us at the
Paris Air Show
Contact us on
KTL Tooling under 07780 701894 to
new ownership KTL Tooling
is a centre of excellence
arrange a meeting
and a global leader in tooling
design and manufacture for civil and defence
Kaman Tooling is under new ownership following a deal that saw it
break away from American aerospace group Kaman Corporation. programmes, including fixed wing and rotary applications.
Now operating as KTL Tooling, the specialist manufacture is part sales@ktltooling.com 07780 701894
of an enlarged organisation which includes G Parker Aero Tooling
Solutions. Both businesses are spearheaded and wholly-owned by
Accrington-based Michael Parker.
www.ktltooling.com
KTL Tooling Ltd, 1 Innovation Drive, Burnley,
He is also joined by new non-executive chairman Dave Roberts, Lancashire BB10 2FT UK
who brings significant industry experience to the role and has
developed a range of specialist tools for the manufacture of
complex aircraft parts for the A350, F-35, Typhoon, A320, Learjet
and A340 among others.
Heamar introduces Laselec’s
easywiring interactive harness boards
KTL Tooling operates from a purpose-built 64,000 sq ft
manufacturing facility on Innovation Drive in Burnley and employs
more than 60 engineers and support staff. It serves the likes of BAE
Systems, Rolls Royce and GKN Aerospace.
Congleton-based Heamar has introduced an In many cases mistakes are made due to This innovative solution brings modernisation
Michael Parker said: “A history of innovation binds KTL Tooling and alternative to the traditional electrical harness wrong information, a misunderstanding of to electrical harness building through the use
G Parker Aero Tooling Solutions, and this was a key driver behind building method. instructions, improper training and the human of software that guides the operator through
the takeover. error that accompanies any manual process. the entire harness assembly process. Benefits
Heamar is a provider of high quality general of this system are readily realised and include
“Creating a single group brings a significant breadth of technical tooling, specialist tooling, components Some of the more typical errors made during increased productivity, reduction in training
ability that sets us apart from our competitors, ultimately supporting and lighting solutions to markets including the construction of the harness can be traced time and best yet, traceability. EasyWiring
both business’s growth plans and the evolving needs of our aerospace, MRO, industrial, rail, defence and back to simple mistakes such as: a lack of even reduces the risk of an error and trims the
customers.” motorsport. preparation, the use of inadequate equipment, time spent on prototyping.
mismatching of hardware due to accumulation
“Tooling was one of the many specialisms under the Kaman banner Heamar is highlighting the benefits of a new of wrong data, improper harness layout or The EasyWiring interactive harness assembly
and we are focused on enhancing KTL Tooling’s manufacturing product, the EasyWiring board from Toulouse, even the incorrect practice of a technique or board introduces features including
capability with its relevant approvals. France-based Laselec. tool. EasyTouch, reducing complexity of routing
operations and harness manufacturing control,
“We still work closely with Kaman on a preferred supplier basis, Planes, trains, cars and ships contain The more manual a process is the chance of and Continuity Test Mode which allows
whilst ensuring we maintain the same high levels of innovation, thousands of wires that connect their various human error increases. A double-quality an operator to perform a continuity test on
service and support for our entire client base.” electrical systems through an electrical wire check is required to root out potential errors. a connector during the harness assembly
harness. Unfortunately, this adds to the time and process by connecting it to the EasyTouch test
KTL Tooling will officially launch the new business at June’s Paris productivity lost along the way. unit.
Air Show at Le Bourget, where it will be part of the Northwest The manufacturing of this wire harness is a
Aerospace Alliance’s show presence. monumental and complex task. Technicians Electrical harness manufacturers have been Heamar is able to offer demonstrations of
have to deal with a plethora of assembly searching for solutions to reduce production Laselec’s new EasyWiring board at its new
The business will still enjoy preferred supplier status with Kaman, instructions that help aid in locating the time and related errors. premises in Congleton.
and their composites site, based at India Mill in Darwen, remains appropriate wires, cutting them to size and
part of the wider US corporation. connecting them to the proper components. Laselec, located in Toulouse in France, has
developed an alternative to the traditional
Currently, in the electrical harness building harness building method: EasyWiring
process, technicians typically use wooden interactive harness boards.
nail boards and large paper drawings.
10 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 11
North Benchmark your What the ACE Aerospace
West SC21 Competitiveness and Growth Members say: Cluster of
Competiveness Excellence
and Growth Do you know how competitive your business • Members of the pilot are being assessed
Aerospace
really is? Do you want to know where formally, and developing a business case “Velocity have been involved in the SC21 C & G programme for over 12 months, the
your customers believe you are in line and improvement plan to improve their programme through assessment and discussion/feedback has help guided us to introduce
with your peers? The NMCL assessment competitiveness a new policy deployment and integrated business planning process and the structured
Cluster of measures all elements we think contribute to
competitiveness and growth: • Companies are benefitting from the NW
improvements derived from this. The company working as part of a Cluster allows us to learn
through sharing relative information and collectively receive taster training delivered by
Excellence • Quality
steering group review process supported
by key stakeholders (ADS, SMMT, BAE
Industry Forum. All of the various activities on the SC21 C & G programme will make us more
equipped to meet the ongoing business challenges by being competitive and growing the
• Delivery Systems, Rolls-Royce, Safran and Boeing) business to meet our customers and shareholders expectations.”
• Cost and the valuable feedback they provide
• Technology Jon Bridges CEO of Velocity Composites PLC
The Cluster of Excellence companies • Flexibility • Companies are benefitting from mentoring
continue to make steady progress through • Customer Experience provided by senior representatives of the
their NMCL assessments and improvement key customers (typically 2 days per month)
plans and utilise the collaborative The NW SC21 C&G programme is open to all Paul Atkinson, Unilathe Business Clive Winby, Commercial Director at
approach that being members of the NWAA members, not only will you undertake • New business development opportunities Development Manager, who undertook Silcoms, reiterates Paul’s comments:
Aerospace Cluster of Excellence enables the National Manufacturing Competitiveness are being created from new relationships the NMCL assessment in Q1 2018 via the
them to have. Level (NMCL) assessment but you will also and new ways of working Automotive sector: “The independent benchmarking within
be able to join the Aerospace Cluster of SC21 Competitiveness and Growth
As part of this collaborative approach Excellence (ACE). • Companies are seeing opportunities to “To validate the robustness of the existing has enabled us to take a critical look
and following the success of the cluster at collaborate on technology development internal business excellence plan 10:TEN, at ourselves and our processes; from it
Farnborough International, we are pleased ACE combines the benefit of being involved the program has enabled Unilathe to better we have been able to set priorities for
to confirm that (at the time of going to with a nationally recognised programme, and • NWAA is marketing the North West Pilot measure Quality, Cost, Delivery, Flexibility, improvement. We have also found the
print) the following members of the Cluster the support and guidance that NWAA has nationally and internationally. Technology and the customers experience. sharing of best practice amongst the
are again collaborating together and will become renowned for from our ASCE/ASCE2 companies on the scheme to be very
be attending the Paris Air-show as the Programmes There is an annual membership cost of The program enables Unilathe to apply beneficial.”
NW SC21 Competitiveness and Growth £5,695 to join the ACE, plus the cost* of best practices across all sectors, leading to
Aerospace Cluster of Excellence: Companies can join the ACE to support the NMCL assessment. For more information greater stability and sustained growth for
you through your SC21 C&G National on the ACE and how you can join, please the company. Unilathe’s mission is to deliver
• A&G Precision Manufacturing Competitiveness Level (NMCL) contact Catherine Toon via catherine.toon@ cost effective engineering excellence, on
• Silcoms assessment and enjoy benefits which include: aerospace.co.uk or 01772 648800. time and in full, driving industry standards Brian Hynes, Engineering & NPI
• Teledyne CML in partnership with our chosen customers.” Manager at Teledyne CML, voiced one
• Unilathe of the common pieces of feedback we
SC21 Competitiveness &
• Velocity Composites have received to date about the NMCL
assessment:
This group of companies will represent
not only the ACE but also join the wider
NWAA members attending in representing Growth – A national and cross Matt Conway, UK Continuous Improvement
Manager, Kaman UK, confirms the
“The customer feedback element of the
SC21 C&G program has shown what’s
and promoting the NW Aerospace sector
to an International audience. sector programme: “Shared best practise with SC21C&G group
and good insight into projects currently
deemed important, and focused our
strong customer relationships.”
being worked is a significant benefit to
Following the Department for Business, Energy NMCL Automotive, delivered by the Society being members of the ACE.
and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) announcement of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), David Fellows, CEO of Senior Aerospace
of its selection of the National Manufacturing the programme for the automotive sector has The assessment structure with the feedback Weston, echoed the value of the customer
Competitiveness Levels (NMCL) programme in recent weeks received the green light from loop from the customer, highlighting benchmarking element of the NMCL
as the mechanism to deliver the Government’s BEIS which enables them to make use of £16m where there may be potential gaps is an Assessment:
national supplier competitiveness and of government funding to develop sustainable Improvement opportunity. Having regular
productivity improvement initiative, as outlined and internationally competitive UK supply reviews and meet and greets with SC21
in its Industrial Strategy, and Automotive and chains. C&G team along with an breakdown “For me the
Aerospace Sector Deals.
Following this announcement, it is anticipated
of how the wider industry and market is
performing is having a positive impact on
customer feedback
that NMCL Aerospace will receive its funding
green light imminently.
our organisation.“ is priceless!”
12 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 13
NWAA Member News
Kaman UK
invests £1m
in new
chemical
treatment line
Kaman UK has invested more than £1m in a
new chemical treatment line which will deliver
surface treatment techniques to the aerospace
industry.
Kaman UK team celebrated this investment
with live demonstrations to the industry,
highlighting this new capability for its Darwen
site.
Christopher Morris, Kaman UK’s Managing The line already includes NADCAP approved Plans are also in place to introduce Tartaric/
Director, said: “This is a significant stage in Penetrant Flaw Detection Plant and Spray/ Sulphuric Anodising (TSA) to further strengthen
the development of the Darwen site which Bake Paint and Primer Equipment. Kaman’s surface treatments capability. TSA
will bring extensive benefits to our customers. is a replacement technology adopted by the
There is a huge demand for treatments The Kaman team will demonstrate the aerospace industry to meet with EU mandates
capability in the industry and this line will capabilities of the new treatment line with a for the reduction of hazardous materials in the
deliver an efficient and cost-effective solution.” series of presentations to more than 75 key working environment (REACH), whilst giving
industry figures. comparable levels of corrosion protection and
The new line is computer-controlled with fully coating quality.
automated loading, immersion and transfer Kaman’s range of special processes is
capabilities through the 3ft, 5ft and 8ft baths. expanded through the new line and includes Kaman will be exhibiting at the Paris Air Show
chromic acid anodise (CAA), chemical in the US pavilion, Hall 3, Stand D118.
Kaman is seeking NADCAP accreditation for conversion coating (Alocrom 1200), acid
the line and expects to secure it by the end of pickle and clean of titanium, vac blast, zinc
the year. spray, welding and paint finishing.
EDM Receives AS9100D Certification
Manchester’s EDM Ltd has been awarded the AS9100D includes all the elements of the
AS9100D quality certification. ISO 9001 standard but has additional
requirements to meet the stringent demands of
The certification is recognised worldwide and aerospace, defence and security customers,
demonstrates an organisation’s compliance placing rigorous emphasis on end-to-end
to the highest of standards within the aviation, quality processes, risk management and
space and defence industries. Compliance continuous improvement.
and/or regulation to AS9100D is a common
condition for doing business for many AS9100D is the current revision of the AS9100
organisations in these aerospace and defence certification and features important new sub-
markets. clauses that place greater scrutiny on product
safety and the prevention of counterfeit parts.
EDM Ltd already holds ISO 9001:2015. It also brings the underlying structure for the
However, in response to customer demand, system in line with ISO 9001:2015.
its Manchester facility has been AS9100D
certified by NQA for the ‘Manufacture of This certification allows EDM to work on both
machined components by both manual and aerospace and military-specific applications,
Computer Numerically Controlled means and cements the company’s position as a
from ferrous, nonferrous and exotic materials high-quality, trusted manufacturer within these
and plastics in accordance with customer markets.
supplied propriety drawings, processes and
procedures.’
14 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 15
NATEP News NATEP News
NATEP
Introducing the
What’s happening NATEP North West
Regional Advisory
in NATEP? Panel
Both of our Call 7 Projects ‘Prometheus: Novel There have been challenges to overcome for both projects
during the quarter which have required different approaches
Hybrid Power Technology for Aerospace,’ and and collaborative thinking between project partners.
Iain Minton
Safran Nacelles
‘GNSS Interference Location and Survey’ are Both projects will be holding their final quarterly reviews UK Technical Director
now reaching the conclusion of their projects shortly where their progress and technical achievements will be
assessed.
and entering the last phase of their R&D with Mick Carlisle
support from the NWAA NATEP team. The three Call 8 projects of ‘HP1 Impact Classification System,’ Independent Forgings
‘Intelligent Diversion Assistant’ and ‘Affordable Detail Additive & Alloys Ltd
Parts Technology’ are now approaching the mid-point of their
projects and have made significant progress despite a number
NATEP at Paris Air Show Business Development Manager
of technical challenges that have been faced by the partners. Martin Burnham
The NWAA NATEP team will have a dedicated NATEP pod on the NWAA’s stand in Hall 2b
IIDEA UK
The NWAA NATEP team will be present on the NWAA’s stand on stand F172 at the Paris Air Show. There will be an updated brochure giving details of all
during the Paris Air Show on a dedicated pod. Why not come the current and previously completed NATEP Projects. The National NATEP Programme team Owner
and visit us in Hall 2b on stand F172 to discuss some of the will also be available in Hall 2b on stand GH 189 and would be happy to discuss any of the
exciting technologies that have been developed during the national NATEP Projects that are currently ongoing or have previously been completed. Ian Eaves
NATEP Programme? Hockley Pattern
Future NATEP Calls Billy Beggs
Focus on NATEP NATEP Call 8 A launch date for the next NATEP Call has not yet been formally confirmed, however it is
UCLan
Engineering Innovation Manager
Call 7 Projects Projects Update likely to open later in the year. Keep an eye on the following websites for further details:
ww.aerospace.co.uk or www.natep.org.uk Costas Soutis
UMARI
The Prometheus Project is working to develop a green The Call 8 Projects of ‘HP1 Impact Classification System,’ Director
power source for aircraft based on thermoelectric generator ‘Intelligent Diversion Assistant’ and ‘Affordable Detail
technology, which converts wasted heat to power. Additive Parts Technology’ have all had their third quarterly
progress reviews and the projects have all made significant
Forthcoming Events Glyn Williams
Marshall’s Aerospace
Over the last quarter the project partners have been focussed progress, including various trials to test the effectiveness of the & Defence Group
on developing a new lighter weight Thermo Electric Module technologies and techniques involved in their developments. Future NATEP events will be listed on the NWAA website (www.aerospace.co.uk)
Chief Engineer
as part of the development of a new Thermoelectric Generator or NATEP website (www.natep.org.uk)
(TEG) to capture some of the energy released in the engine of a The Call 8 Projects are presenting to the NW Regional Advisory
large-scale drone aircraft. Panel (RAP) in June on their progress to date. The projects will For more information about NATEP, please contact the NWAA Project Manager Bob Greenhalgh
report on their progress against their plans and the RAP panel Glen Bullen on 01772 648800 or e-mail: glen.bullen@natep.org.uk BAE Systems
This new TEG will be able to capture more energy whilst will look to offer constructive feedback and assistance on any
weighing significantly less than the previous TEG that had been issues they may be experiencing within the development of
developed during the project. their technologies. There will be more details on the progress of
the Call 8 Projects during the Autumn edition of Plane Talk. Denzil Lawrence
General Information
The GNSS Interference Location and Survey Project is working Boeing
on stopping airport GNSS systems from being jammed and Commercial Airplanes
heavily disrupted through the use of mobile detectors. Supplier Development
The focus of activity in the project during the last quarter has NATEP is an Aerospace Growth Partnership The programme supports companies in the
Rob Hewison
been on optimising the precise timing and location of potential initiative led by ADS, the Premier Trade aerospace supply chain to develop innovative
jammer signals logged by the receivers during testing. There Organisation for companies in the UK technologies, working in collaboration AMRC
has also been significant analysis undertaken on how the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space with others and supported by higher tier Composite Centre
receivers could detect multiple signal jamming attempts in Sectors. It is a UK-wide programme delivered companies. It will equip them to win new Technical Manager
the same location, as this is a more complicated scenario for with the support of Regional Aerospace business with existing customers and to
jamming detection. Alliance (RAA) organisations in England diversify their customer base. It is based on
(Farnborough Aerospace Consortium, a proven model delivered by the partner Michael Andreae
Midlands Aerospace Alliance, North West organisations from 2013-17. As well as grant Sigma Components
Aerospace Alliance and West of England funding, the programme provides high calibre Director of Technology
Aerospace Forum) and in the devolved technical and management resource to help & Improvement
regions by Invest Northern Ireland, Scottish those companies accelerate the technology
Enterprise and the Welsh Government. development towards market readiness.
16 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 17
NWAA Member News
See us at the
Paris Air Show
Bespoke Turnkey Tooling Solutions
Contact us on
07780 701894 to
arrange a meeting
KTL Tooling is a centre of excellence and a global leader in tooling
design and manufacture for civil and defence programmes, including
fixed wing and rotary applications.
Specialists in the design and manufacture of composite component production mould
tooling and large complex assembly systems, we utilise a range
of materials to suit customer applications and requirements.
Woodford Engineering Consultancy
Our Core Capabilities
- UK facility
- 64,000 sq ft manufacturing capacity
Queen’s Award wins for NWAA members -
-
-
Large assembly bays with 7m x 5m door access
Three 10t KONE cranes (8m under hook)
3 & 5 axis CNC machining (21.5m)
- Fabrication/welding (invar - steel - stainless - aluminium)
Two NWAA member companies have won the coveted “HRH The Duke of York was kind enough to declare - Fitting/assembly
Queen’s Award for Enterprise. our new premises open when we moved here a couple - Conventional tool room/patternshop
of years ago. He suggested we try for the award and, - Large CMM inspection (6.3m)
Pexa, the UK’s leading coatings and surface treatment encouraged by that, we did. Thanks to him for giving us
products to aerospace and other sectors, and a push in this direction.”
Woodford Engineering Consultancy, providing aircraft
Quality Approvals
systems design, development, safety and certification Pexa now works with more than 1,000 customers
services, have been named winners. in more than 40 countries, providing products for
projects including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is one of the A350XWB and the F-35 Lightning II.
AS EN 9100 Rev D & BS EN 9001:2015
UK’s leading awards for industry, and is given for
outstanding achievement in innovation, international It has also expanded to open new offices and outlets in
trade, sustainable development and promoting Spain, Southern France, North Africa and India. ISO 18001
opportunity through social mobility.
Woodford Engineering was founded in 2008 and
Pexa, based in West Yorkshire, and Cheadle Hulme- employs more than 50 people at its Cheadle Hulme BAE Systems Method 1 Approval
based Woodford Engineering, won the award in the and Filton, Bristol sites. (Direct to line delivery)
International Trade category.
David Bradshaw, Woodford Engineering Commercial
Jim Rowbotham, founder and Managing Director of Director, said: “We are honoured to receive this
Pexa, said: “We are thrilled to win the Queen’s Award most prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise. It is Assembly Systems and
for Enterprise for the first time”, says Jim Rowbotham,
founder and Managing Director.
testament to the value of the skills and expertise of our
engineering staff. Fixtures
By working together with our global
“We are proud to be a part of the UK’s continuing customers we develop and design
capability in high-value design: a capability which is in
efficient assembly systems,
demand globally. In particular we thank our European
partners and customers whose ongoing recognition which can also operate as a
of the value of our expertise has made this award pulse line to maximise build
possible.”
efficiency and encourage a
Queen’s Award winners are invited to a Royal reduced takt time.
reception and presented with their award by a Lord
Lieutenant. They are given a Grant of Appointment and
www.ktltooling.com
Members of:
a crystal trophy.
sales@ktltooling.com
07780 701894 KTL Tooling Ltd, 1 Innovation Drive, Burnley, Lancashire BB10 2FT UK
The HRH Duke of York at Pexa
18 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 19Isle of Man News Isle of Man News
Improving quality, reducing risk to customers and “In parallel, the company is also expanding its
improving customer service overall. polishing capabilities through the acquisition of a new
72” polishing machine, due to be delivered over the
FOCUS ON… Traceability of the product is key, and MPO have this.
Helmut said: “We offer a tailored, specialist service
supported with knowledge and expertise. We are
summer of 2019. This will enable MPO to increase
polishing lot sizes and also allow the company to
expand its capability to polishing larger diameter
flexible in the work we do, and are always willing to optics (>300mm dia).
try and test different things. Our clients are happy to
pay for quality, and they can rest assured they will “Some of the company’s specific areas of expertise
receive this due to our quality certification.” are in the manufacture of high laser-induced damage
threshold (LIDT) coatings, specifically for use in ultrafast
Even though the addition of the coating chamber has lasers. The company’s white light interferometers
facilitated further expansion, Helmut continues to ensure that all components for ultrafast applications
look for ways to improve and develop. Later this year are delivered with a measured GDD (Group Delay
(in the third quarter) he plans to further expand the Dispersion) curve.
grinding and polishing capabilities.
As a result of all this change, the “Furthermore, MPO manufactures solid and air-spaced
company is recruiting this year: there etalons and related components such as VIPA etalons.
After locating your are vacancies in the accounting side Where light needs to be polarised, MPO’s optically
business to the Isle of of the business as well as the optics. contacted cube polarisers, even available in sizes
of 2” (50.8mm), 3” (76.2mm) and larger, offer a
Man, support is available Jeanette Kessler, Helmut’s wife, competitive solution. Due to the modern production
from the Government’s company co-owner and Director
of Finance, will be looking for
facility, MPO is able to offer short delivery times and
highly competitive prices even on small /specialist
Department for Enterprise assistance in the finance department components.
due to growing order books and
– up to 40% grant increased activity. The husband “At the start of 2018, MPO also added polishing
support is available and wife team always look to
recruit locally, and are keen to take
capabilities for large diameter spherical optics. Having
both polishing and coating capabilities in-house allows
towards building, plant on young people to teach in an MPO to offer a one-stop-shop solution to customers
and machinery, first year apprenticeship role, allowing them who require their components to withstand high laser
MANX PRECISION OPTICS rent costs and employee
to grow with the business.
They are both passionate about
powers.
“MPO is one of the world’s leading manufacturers
relocation. Find out supporting local talent and are of components for high power and ultrashort pulse
Manx Precision Optics Ltd (MPO) is an Isle of Man-
based, family owned company manufacturing high
Man Government’s Department for Enterprise (DfE)’s
Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) in the form of a
more by visiting www. conscious about remaining a key
part of the community.
applications and, since its foundation, has built up a
global network of customers, exporting its products
precision optical components. grant to purchase a new coating chamber. iomdfenterprise.im/fas world-wide. 2019 will see further expansion of markets
Overall, Manx Precision Optics is in Asia and the US.
Founded in 2013, MPO is a member of the The business also received support towards the a relatively small company working
Isle of Man Aerospace Cluster. The company’s quality accreditation ISO9001:2015 which means its to the rules and standards of larger “Along with the increase in the business, MPO has
manufacturing process is ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system (QMS) is certified to the companies in the industry. ‘Small but been able to create new employment opportunities
and comprises the full spectrum of optical component latest standard and internationally recognised. The mighty’ is a term that is rather fitting with two new members of staff starting in June
manufacture, from grinding and shaping to polishing new chamber is now in place and fully functioning. for this rapidly expanding local and recruitment of further members of staff in the
and coating (both traditional e-beam coatings and The chamber is hugely influential to the business as business…and also a reflection of the Isle of Man itself. pipeline. Through their grant scheme, the Isle of Man
sputtered coatings). it allows MPO to double their coating capacity; We leave the final words to Dr Kessler, who adds: Government has been very supportive, allowing MPO
it also features advanced control systems and is to expand at a much faster pace than would otherwise
The company exports globally, supplying optics fully automated with the potential to run overnight, “Having been established in 2013, MPO is currently have been possible.”
to industrial customers as well as research and increasing efficiency. undergoing its second phase of major expansion.
development (R&D) bodies in high power research. This involved, during the fourth quarter of 2018, MPO holds a large stock of raw material and polished
Helmut believes it is important to fully understand and the purchase of a new large coating chamber that optics allowing for short delivery times even where
Here we take a look at the man behind the lens, Dr control the overall manufacturing process as optics doubled the company’s coating capacity while components with specialist coatings are required.
Helmut Kessler, Managing Director of MPO, to see manufacture is a non-deterministic process. It is for also adding new technical capabilities and was an Many standard components, both coated and
how the business has grown in the last six years. this reason that the company needs to be flexible due investment of over £500K. uncoated are available from stock – you can find out
Helmut is a physicist by trade with a background in to the inherent risk involved, as a small speck of dust more via the company’s website www.mpo.im
coating design. His passion for producing precision- latching onto one of the optics can scratch the surface
made optics is something that shines through the and cause damage.
business and is one of the reasons why MPO have
been so successful on the Isle of Man. He explains there are some parameters they can
The company has always focused on the long-term, control but other things are impossible to control
and avoids paying too much attention to short-term or account for. This is what excites Helmut and his
goals: Helmut believes you can achieve more overall enthusiasm transfers to the employees, creating a
this way. He said: “We concentrate on our people, positive working culture where quality and efficiency
inventions and long term growth.” thrive.
In light of this, the company is continually looking One of the strengths of the company and, arguably,
to expand whilst keeping control of quality. In the key USP is that it completes all processes in-house.
2018 MPO recognised the need for new capital This is very important to MPO’s R&D customers as
equipment; Helmut received support from the Isle of they can get everything they need from one supplier.
20 plane talk summer 2019 www.aerospace.co.uk @NWAerospace plane talk summer 2019 21NWAA Member News
Time to take control - Dormer
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Dormer Pramet’s ProLog Vending system dispensing for a wide range of tools and
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