In the world of CNC machining, the spotlight is often on precision equipment, advanced automation, and cutting-edge control systems. But when it comes to solving real-world workholding challenges, the technology itself is only part of the equation. The often-overlooked variable — and arguably the most critical — is people. Workholding may appear to be a […]

Walmag – Smart & Safe Magnetic Workholding Solutions At 1st MTA, we are always seeking to bring innovative and reliable workholding technologies to our customers. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Walmag, a leading name in magnetic workholding solutions. With over 25 years of experience and manufacturing expertise based in the Czech Republic, Walmag […]

Magnetics – The Future of Workholding For decades, magnetic workholding was considered a niche solution—ideal for flat plate materials on surface grinders, but rarely trusted beyond that. Today, however, the landscape of modern machining is changing rapidly. Thanks to major advancements in magnetic technology, magnets are now proving to be a powerful and flexible solution […]

Get a Grip: Why Expanding Mandrels from 1st MTA Are the Smart Choice for Internal Workholding When it comes to workholding, external clamping gets most of the attention — but internal gripping is often the real challenge. Whether you’re working with thin-walled parts, precision bores, or long, awkward components, choosing the right mandrel can make […]

SINCO MULTI-PART CLAMPING REVOLUTIONISES CNC MACHINING EFFICIENCY   With hundreds of zero-points across the table or pallet of a vertical or horizontal machining centre, Sinco MultiZero workholding offers ultimate modularity and exceptionally high precision for securing multiple components for machining. The systems are sold into the UK and Irish markets under an exclusive agency agreement […]

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 […]