Meeting the challenges of workholding for 5-axis machining   As manufacturing industry increasingly has to embrace the complexities of 5-axis CNC machining, whether 3+2, 4+1 or fully interpolative. A critical yet often underestimated aspect of the process is how to secure the workpiece reliably and repeatably.  It is especially important when the one of the […]

Workholding and automation equipment specialist 1st Machine Tool Accessories (www.1mta.com) is able to supply two ranges of products that offer high accuracy workholding for EDM applications workpiece positioning accuracy as well as secure retention when immersed in a fluid. They are therefore ideal for wire-cut and die-sink electro-discharge machining (EDM) of components in a tank […]

Retrofitting Kitagawa 5-Axis Rotary Tables for Expanded CNC Capability In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, the pressure is on to machine faster, more accurately, and with greater flexibility. That’s why many workshops are turning their attention to 5-axis machining—a technology that was once reserved for high-end aerospace firms, but is now becoming more accessible thanks to […]

The Key Challenges Facing UK Manufacturing in 2025 UK manufacturing has always stood for resilience, ingenuity, and world-class engineering. But in 2025, the sector faces a series of mounting challenges—both longstanding and emerging. From global uncertainty to local policy shifts, manufacturers are navigating a complex landscape that demands adaptability, innovation, and courage. Here’s a closer […]

WORKHOLDING UPGRADE DOUBLES PRODUCTIVITY   At the Elland, West Yorkshire factory of Archway Engineering (www.archway-engineering.com), which manufactures drilling equipment for site investigation, mineral exploration, water well construction and environmental monitoring, a Leadwell V-50L 3-axis VMC (vertical machining centre) performs some of the more arduous machining operations on the shop floor. Remarkably, the productivity of parts […]

Darex Drill sharpener pays for itself in five months   Anyone who has spoken with Danielle Toner, production manager of site drilling equipment manufacturer Archway Engineering (www.archway-engineering.com), About the company’s use of a drill sharpener would wonder why every factory does not use one. When the savings are understood, and bearing in mind that drilling […]

1st MTA gains sales agency for Slovenian zero-point clamping systems   With immediate effect, 1st Machine Tool Accessories. Has been appointed sole sales agent in the UK and Ireland for the modular range of zero-point workholding products manufactured by Slovenian firm, Sinco. The versatile MultiZero is said to be the most capable on the market, […]

Versatile workholding ensures high productivity and accuracy at automation equipment manufacturer   Situated in Shipley, West Yorkshire, TecnAir designs and manufactures an extensive variety of pneumatic cylinders, valve assemblies, linear drives, handling equipment, controls and other products. They are used for the assembly of standard and special automation solutions requested by customers around the world, […]

What do you prioritise when it comes to machine workholding? Clamping speed? Holding power? Price? Low vibration? Availability? Ease of comprehension and use? Simple servicing and maintenance?   For many, traditional manual clamps are a cost-effective and entirely suitable solution for their workholding needs. They’re cheap, mostly effective and simple to understand.    But, have […]

Do you look for workholding solutions that work harder and faster with less effort?  Does reducing downtime and maximising productivity remain at the forefront of your priorities? The Chick System 5 consists of several cutting-edge workholding features, each designed to provide the most versatile and efficient workholding solution possible.    Whether you’re using workholding personally […]