New investments at Harlow-based Gratnells in moulding, coating and laser cutting will cut lead times for subcontract customers.
Gratnells Engineering has been providing engineering solutions for nearly 130 years. Historically known as the leading name in school storage in over 68 countries of the world (and the producer of the iconic Gratnells Tray) Gratnells Engineering has developed into a multi-sector manufacturer capable of providing high-volume laser cutting, powder coating and bespoke metal solutions to a wide range of customers.
The Harlow-based manufacturer specialises in short run, quick turnaround projects, giving customers shorter lead times, high precision and quality customer service. Powder Coating, Injection Moulding and Laser Cutting are just some of the areas where investment has been made this year, including a newSpraylinePlant machine, IM machine number 8 and a BLM LT Fibertube cutting machine.
In particular, theBLM LT Fiber tube cutting machine has helped increase efficiency, benefitting both the company and their customers with a fast and highly precise process. Designed to cut from small to medium diameters and thicknesses of metal tubular sections, the LT Fiber allows tubes of any shape to be cut, process of special sections and even open shapes without any additional special equipment required.The laser cutting range boasts an automated unloading and support system for pre-cut lengths up to 6100mm, automatic weld seam detection, and a module that maintains the cleanliness of the internal tube surface whilst machining. Anti-crush technology makes the machine capable of processing even the lightest of tubes without deforming the walls. This high-tech equipment is also great for scrap reduction by setting the sequence of parts to be cut and minimising end of bar scrap; meaning less overall waste, which is good for the company and for the environment too.
Loic Jones, Operations Director, says “Gratnells Engineering decided to invest in state-of-the-art laser technology to enable us to offer fast production runs with the best quality finish, to our customer base. This substantial investment will allow us to continually support the ever-demanding needs of modern manufacturing clients”.