Panel & Joinery Production

March/April 2018

the decorative panels group YOUR PERFECT PARTNER

Introducing dp-seamless Tel. 01484 658341 Tel. T Email. info@decorativepanels.co.uk www.decorativepanels.co.uk

EDGE BANDING WITH ZERO GLUE LINE GET THE INVISIBLE EDGE WITH THE BIESSE EDGEBANDER RANGE Introducing a range of state of the art edgebander solutions designed to live in perfect harmony with the panel. Biesse AirforceÂŽ allows you to swap easily between glue options with minimal setup and our superior technology delivers real added value and quality every time.

Almost invisible edging coupled with a zero glueline, ensures Biesse solutions really give your business the edge.

Discover more about the Biesse range of edgebanders contact Jason Southam on 01327 300 366 or email jason.southam@biesse.co.uk

Akron A Ak kro ro ron on 1300 13 1 300 0

Ak Akron A kro ron on 1400 1400 14 400 00

info@biesse.co.uk, +44 (0) 1327 300 366

biesse.com

Sttrre S Stream Strea eam am A

Contents

March/April Issue 2018 Published by:

EC Media Services 76 Victoria Avenue Westgate on Sea Kent CT8 8BH

Telephone/Fax: E-mail: Website: Publisher: Designer:

+44 (0)20 8366 3331

Printer:

The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk

ernie@p-j-production.com www.p-j-production.com Ernie Hollister Ian Curtis, First Sight Graphics www.firstsightgraphics.com

Reproduction of articles: All material appearing in Panel & Joinery Production is strictly copyright, and all rights are reserved.

No part of the publication may be copied or transmitted in any form whatsoever, including photocopying, without the prior permission of the publishers.

Publishers’ note: The editorial opinions expressed in Panel & Joinery Production are not necessarily those of the publishers, who shall be under no liability with respect to any article published herein.

Distribution: Panel & Joinery Production is published six times a year and circulated to designers, individual purchasers and specifiers who are manufacturing within the wood-based panel, board and solid wood industry in the UK and Ireland. Annual subscription is at the following rates, which include postage: UK & N. Ireland Mainland Europe Elsewhere

£18.50 £34.00 £38.00

© Copyright EC Media Services ISSN 2046-4134

The installation of the Biesse 59 metre production line replaces three manually-fed edgebanding machines adding increased efficiency to Decorative Panels bonding technology.

See pages 24 & 25 for further information.

CONTENTS 2............. News 7............. Help For Heroes – W Exhibition & Elements Charity Partner

8-9......... SCM’s Production Technology 12........... Makita’s New Ls1019 Slide Compound Mitre Saw 14-15.... Quest Joinery Invest In A Homag Venture BMG 114 20........... The Kappa 550 Makes An Entrance At Shaker2go 22.......... James Latham Announce Veneer Deal With Decospan 24-25.... The Perfect Edge Finish – Introducing dp-seamless 26-27.... Design Trends Help Boost UK manufacturing 30.......... A Good Show For Print Acoustics 36-37... Homag Delivers Total Machine Interconnectivity 42-43... Alphcam Programs 5-Axis Twin Head Machine For Ercol 45.......... Sharpening For Mutual Success

SPECIAL FEATURES 38-43...

46-48...

Software Dust Extraction

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

1

C@@J;>IJ&F(IGH<IHDJ;AGH 6DBJ%E?! 0HJ351 3A.,4FHDGE?DFGB

I

ain McIlwee, CEO British Woodworking Federation, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) represents the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ÂŁ3.8bn woodworking sector, a craft at the heart of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s construction sector, which employs approximately 60,000 people around the country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the news of the liquidation of Carillion breaks, it is almost ironic that we are putting our final comments in on the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consultation into retention payments in the construction industry. This debate is not about whether the state should bail out Carillion, but whether Government can in all conscience turn its back on a supply chain of SMEs who will end up carrying the can for poor procurement, bad business management and an endemic failure by the Government to address some of the archaic procurement practices surrounding late payments and retentions that place risk

unfairly on SME sub-contractors. Many of the creditors are SMEs and the sums, whilst likely to be significantly lower than the liquidators will take, could define the future of these businesses - it would be a gross injustice if their money unfairly held is lost in this process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Frankly to my mind the Government is complicit in the sorry saga that is unfolding and we need decisions fast. As a short term we need to see some security against these retentions and unjust payment clauses.

Moving forward we urge the Government to develop a structured and more consistent legislative process to deal with market failures, be they banks, construction firms or steel manufacturers. We cannot rely on arbitrary decision making and political posturing. There needs to be clear process to ensure those responsible foot the bill and ensure society and supply chains do not suffer unduly. The Government consistently

Ian McIlwee CEO British Woodworking Federation

fails to recognise the stress of running a small business and keeping people employed - a lot of business owners in this supply chain wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be sleeping soundly until this is resolved."

For further information: Tel: 0844 209 2610 Email: bwf@bwf.org.uk www.bwf.org.uk

;C<.IGJ7GE<IJ6BJ'I,3>E:CH8JD>IJ J+FABI.AC@=CH8J6H=ABDG2

R

ecent developments in the housebuilding industry look set to stimulate the market for timber frame construction.

Housebuilding has proved the most buoyant sector of the UK construction industry for the past five years, its rate of growth only recently being overtaken by the infrastructure sector.

Even now, demand is so strong that housebuilders are unable to meet demand and the time-lag between starts and completions has prevented any acceleration in supply.

In 2017 in order to speed things up, the government launched a ÂŁ3bn â&#x20AC;&#x153;home-building fundâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a loans programme to encourage more small to medium sized builders to focus on housebuilding.

Structural timber technology addresses many government concerns associated with the public procurement of housing. These include the speed of construction, 2

environmental impact, energy efficiency and cost.

The materials that go into a timber frame system are generally cheaper, more sustainable and more energy efficient than traditional masonry.

For example, Norbordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own oriented strand board, SterlingOSB, one of the most widely-used components of UK timber frame systems, is manufactured in Scotland from home-grown forest â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thinningsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (slender, immature trees harvested as part of sustainable forest management).

Manufactured using renewable heat from onsite biomass boilers, SterlingOSB is a sustainable, low-energy product with excellent physical performance characteristics. OSB is an essential component of all timber framed panel systems and a major contributor to their growing popularity.

Besides â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;traditionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; timber frame construction, newer timber-based off-site technologies, such as cross-laminated timber

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

and structural insulated panel systems (SIPS), are strengthening timberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s share of the housebuilding market.

The benefits of these systems, being comparably lower energy intensive and emission producing in their manufacture and possessing greater thermal efficiency in their use, is helping to support their specification in the timber frame market.

For further information: Tel: 01786 812 921 www.usewoodwisely.co.uk www.norbord.co.uk.

“We were looking for a company we could expand with!”

Phil Temple, Managing Director

“We have had a lot of advice and that is what we wanted, in the future when we expand we already know where we are going to go!”

Watch the full testimonial on FELDER GROUP UK TV

Shaker2go Ltd’s Woodworking Machines Kappa 550 e-motion

AF 22

Panel Saw

Mobile Dust Extraction Unit

Over Woodworking Machines to choose O 150 W d k M hi from! Call today and find the right Machine from the FELDER GROUP range!

For more information Tel. 01908 635 000

Unit 2, Sovereign Business Park, Joplin Court Crownhill, MK8 0JP, Milton Keynes

info@felder-group.com www.felder-group.com

People

*IGF 'IBDGA?DAGIBJCDB 9@:>E?E<JEH= 4E.CHIDJ*CBCFHJ5EHE8I<IHDJ;IE<

V

ero Software has restructured the EMEA management of two of its market-leading brands, Alphacam and Cabinet Vision.

Following Richard Chappell’s appointment as Global Director of the two brands last year, Michael Pettit becomes EMEA Sales Manager for them both, and Marie Cassidy EMEA Support and Services Manager, also for both.

Previously, Michael Pettit was EMEA Sales Manager just for Alphacam, with Marie Cassidy Cabinet Vision’s UK Business Manager.

“Around 20 percent of Cabinet Vision customers in the UK also use Alphacam for different parts of their woodworking operations, and as there’s a significant amount of synergy between the brands, it makes perfect sense to bring them

way,”” says Michael Pettit Pettit. together in this way While his primary focus will now be driving Cabinet Vision and Alphacam direct sales in the UK, he is also responsible for the powerful network of Alphacam resellers across the EMEA region. Christian Poupin will continue to be responsible for the growing Cabinet Vision reseller network throughout Europe and Asia.

Marie Cassidy will manage both brands’ support and technical teams. “I’ve been managing support and services for Cabinet Vision for several years, and am now aiming to bring my expertise to the Alphacam brand as well.”

“I’m extremely excited about the positive impacts Michael and Marie can make in their new roles,” says Richard Chappell.

“This move mean Vero’s expanding customer base in the woodworking industry

Michael Petit EMEA Sales Manager and Marie Cassidy UK Business Manager

will experience a consistent service across all their needs, from initial sales, through training, to ongoing technical support.”

For further information: Tel: 01189 756084 Alphacam: www.alphacam.com Cabinet Vision: www.cabinetvision.com

9J I- 4>E:DIGJ7FGJ F>HJ9@@IH.2

A

ft 18 years att the fter th h helm l off SCM Group (UK) Ltd Service Department John Allenby has taken a decision to move aside to allow a new chapter in SCM aftercare to begin. The team John has built over the years accounts for over 30 engineers on the road, a team of six, office based, to support customers remotely and to organize the time of travelling technicians, plus two administrative assistants who link daily action with IT systems to categorize, register and evaluate the jobs accomplished. The whole process has been developed in cooperation with our Italian HQ but has a lot of John’s experience in it.

The new Service Manager Adam Chambers says: ”Since 2004 I have been part of the SCM family and now very proud to be heading up the service operations for the U.K subsidiary. John Allenby has been, for the last 18 years, instrumental to

4

our success and the way we h have d along l th built a fantastic team. We will continue to provide ongoing in house training to our technical team, and to grow our apprenticeship program. This is very important to us and proving its worth. All of our successful trainees have remained within our business and are at the top level of their skill set. My appointment will be to honour John’s success and continue to build the business and support our valued customer base. ’’ During the last few years Adam, on top of being a very well respected CNC specialist and coordinator, has developed IT support systems that allow clear and prompt reporting of service visits.

Customers benefit from the derived clear records of their equipment service history, and SCM grows its knowledge base using it also to cross train and upskill all technicians in the team. If you would like

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Adam Chambers congratulating John Allenby

to know more about our new Service Smart Glasses, our Service Contracts, or to congratulate John and Adam, they will be happy to answer your calls: Tel: 0115 977 0044

People

1 %A2B /GI<CBIB

N

EY is pleased to inform you that it has now purchased the freehold of its entire commercial premises in Sibree Road, Coventry.

Managing Director, Shahana Kishver says: “ We have wanted to purchase our own premises for some time and waited until our rental property came on the market. The premises are well located in a highly sought after area which places us in a good position to expand our business.

We will be making improvements and investing in the site to develop it further to beat serve our needs.”

Chairman, Gerd Ney adds: “As most of you will know only too well, we suffered a devastating fire in 2012 which could have destroyed our business. If not for the tremendous support of our most valued suppliers and the hard work and

endeavours of all our staff staff, this landmark occasion could not have happened.”

Gerd and Shahana welcome the fact that the uncertainty with regard to the premises is now resolved and, with your continued support, look forward with renewed enthusiasm and excitement to the challenges that lie ahead.

With our very best regards Gerd and Shahana For further information: Tel: 0247 630 8100 www.ney.co.uk

7IBDFF@J&GF-B ;>IJ;IE<J6H /GI:EGEDCFHJ7FGJ9J%AB2 "#

L

eading power tool manufacturer Festool has grown its UK team as a response to increased sales over the past year – and to prepare for an even busier year in 2018.

Seven new team members have recently joined its HQ in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

Jamie Bunting is now Logistics Team Leader and joins the Festool team after 13 years at Kuehne + Nagle where he ran a logistics team that supported the servicing of the MODs fleet of Apache helicopters.

Holly Hyde-Smith is the Marketing Communications Executive and brings with her a wealth of experience having been the marketing manager for global SaaS company EMEA and part of the marketing team for the retail sector of a technology consultancy.

Two new starters have been taken on in the sales team: Martin Ive and Daryl HerbertSmith are new Territory Sales Managers.

Daryl gained several years of experience at various flooring businesses including his last role as Contracts Area Sales Manager at SIG Group Carpet and Flooring, where he supplied flooring to contractors and end users including Bovis Homes and Vinci and Bam. Three new positions have been created in the Finance team too: Business Administrator Elaine Phillips, Olga Snitsarenko, Management Accountant Assistant, and Emma Butler, General Administration Assistant.

Festool’s Marketing Manager Jon Burcham said: “The quality and innovation of Festool’s products is renowned and the team that support the cutting-edge technology is also second to none. We are thrilled that our ranks have been increased by top-notch experts in their fields. This is as a response to a brilliant year that we’ve seen – we expect that 2018 is going to be

L-R - Jamie Bunting, Elaine Phillips, Martin Ive, Olga Snitsarenko, Daryl Herbert-Smith, Emma Butler and Holly Hyde-Smith.

just as buoyant.

“Festool has been experiencing incredible growth in the UK market. The new recruits each bring impressive expertise and we’re excited to continue expanding our market presence.”

For further information: www.festool.co.uk

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

5

People

*IGF 'IBDGA?DAGIBJCDB 9@:>E?E<JEH= 4E.CHIDJ*CBCFHJ5EHE8I<IHDJ;IE<

V

ero Software has restructured the EMEA management of two of its market-leading brands, Alphacam and Cabinet Vision.

Following Richard Chappell’s appointment as Global Director of the two brands last year, Michael Pettit becomes EMEA Sales Manager for them both, and Marie Cassidy EMEA Support and Services Manager, also for both.

Previously, Michael Pettit was EMEA Sales Manager just for Alphacam, with Marie Cassidy Cabinet Vision’s UK Business Manager.

“Around 20 percent of Cabinet Vision customers in the UK also use Alphacam for different parts of their woodworking operations, and as there’s a significant amount of synergy between the brands, it makes perfect sense to bring them

way,”” says Michael Pettit Pettit. together in this way While his primary focus will now be driving Cabinet Vision and Alphacam direct sales in the UK, he is also responsible for the powerful network of Alphacam resellers across the EMEA region. Christian Poupin will continue to be responsible for the growing Cabinet Vision reseller network throughout Europe and Asia.

Marie Cassidy will manage both brands’ support and technical teams. “I’ve been managing support and services for Cabinet Vision for several years, and am now aiming to bring my expertise to the Alphacam brand as well.”

“I’m extremely excited about the positive impacts Michael and Marie can make in their new roles,” says Richard Chappell.

“This move mean Vero’s expanding customer base in the woodworking industry

Michael Petit EMEA Sales Manager and Marie Cassidy UK Business Manager

will experience a consistent service across all their needs, from initial sales, through training, to ongoing technical support.”

For further information: Tel: 01189 756084 Email: stewart.bint@verosoftware.com Alphacam: www.alphacam.com Cabinet Vision: www.cabinetvision.com

1 >C.CDCFHJ :=EDIJ Xylexpo May 8th – 12th 2018 Ro, Milan, Italy

W18/ELEMENTS September 30th – October 3rd 2018 NEC, Birmingham

UK Construction Week Surface Material Show Timber Expo October 9-11 2018 NEC, Birmingham

6

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Events

+I@:J7FGJ+IGFIBJ4FH)CG<I= 9B ;>IJ 1 >C.CDCFHJEH= 1@I<IHDB 4>EGCD2J/EGDHIGJ

H

elp for Heroes has been announced as the official charity partner for the furniture and joinery manufacturing show, the W Exhibition, and co-located furniture components show, Elements, for a second consecutive year. Following the success of the 2016 show, which saw the charity forge strong relationships with exhibitors and visitors from the woodworking sector, Help for Heroes will once again take part in the four-day event held from the 30th September – 3rd October 2018 at the NEC, Birmingham.

“For us, taking part in shows like the W Exhibition and Elements is about raising awareness for a worthy cause,” explains

Dean Williams, Central England Regional Manager for Help for Heroes. “Many people still don’t know the relationship we have with the woodworking sector and how their time, skills and funding could change the lives of many ex-servicemen and women that, as a result of serving their country, have suffered life-changing injuries and illnesses. Exhibitions like this offer us a great opportunity to educate visitors on our woodworking shops and recovery centres, whilst also helping us to engage with potential employers who could aid the future careers of our beneficiaries.

They also give us a platform to find willing volunteers and companies that can help us to inspire and support our cause.”

As well as promoting its

#TheForceForGood campaign at the show, which asks visitors to offer their expertise and time to make a real difference to the cause, the charity will also be taking part in active fundraising throughout the exhibition (with the help of the Heroes Bear) and showcase the skills and talents of its beneficiaries on a new, interactive stand.

Lisa Campagnola, Event Director for the W Exhibition and Elements adds, “2016 was the first time that Help for Heroes took part in the show, and I’m really looking forward to welcoming them back in September. We are extremely focused on supporting the growth of the furniture manufacturing industry and promoting talent in the sector.

By partnering with Help for Heroes, not only are we supporting a great cause, with money being raised that will go towards funding workshops and recovery centres across the UK, but we are also introducing talented people to the industry and showing them where a career in woodworking could take them. It’s a really exciting opportunity for all involved.”

Keen to find out how you can help? Find out more about the charity by visiting www.helpforheroes.org.uk or for the latest exhibition news visit www.wexhibition.co.uk or follow @W_Exhibition and @Elements_Expo on Twitter and like ‘The W Exhibition’ on Facebook.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

7

Events

345 BJ/GF=A?DCFHJ;I?>HF@F82 Industry 4.0 Is Now Officially Up And Running. Thousands Of Visitors At The Digital Days, SCM's Digital And Smart Open House

O

ver 2,500 visitors, including customers and distributors from all five continents, were welcomed at the event which took place from January 25 to 27 at the SCM Rimini Headquarters. It was the first such event to be dedicated to the new woodworking industry trends in the digital age. Visitors were most curious to see SCM's Digital Hub and all the latest developments in production technology.

Industry professionals arrived at the SCM Headquarters in Rimini from all over Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. From January 25 to 27 more than 2,500 visitors attended the Scm Digital Days, the Italian giant's 2018 Open House.

Record numbers that confirm once again the Group's world leadership position among providers of secondary woodworking solutions.

A busy time for SCMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Digital Days Open House

where more than fifty operating solutions were on display, and the Digital Hub, the event's true and proper command centre, offering live demonstration of the latest developments in digital, smart, connected and integrated production processes.

The event focused on new production Hundreds of industry professionals flocked technologies that are based on digital to the Hub to experience for themselves developments and Industry 4.0 concepts, which companies in our industry have been the immersive augmented reality wearing the SCM-designed smart glasses, which adopting in recent years. Most popular with allows company service technicians to visitors were; the Scm Technology Centre, offer remote and o iinteractive assistance to customers. A thousand c vvisitors attended demonstrations of SCM d ssoftware applications (in IItalian, English and German). And a preview of G an IoT (Internet of Things) a network was a major n ssuccess during this threeday event among d rrepresentatives of companies that seek to c adopt the "Factory 4.0" a principles.

The Virtual Reality viewer

8

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

WORK SIMPLE. WORK DIGITAL The "Work Simple. Work Digital." slogan was the event's catchphrase, its underlying concept and the common thread in the entire display of a series of technological and digital innovations, which had been developed in order to make daily work of industry professionals simpler and easier, all based on a high level of expertise and know-how. Indeed, the vision that has inspired and driven SCM has always been focused on tying technical development to the practical needs of its end users through a systemic study of and intent listening to their real situations and needs. And today, large factories as well as small workshops seek to employ optimised custom integrated production lines, that is, to meet the individual requirements of each task without sacrificing the advantages of industrial production.

All these concepts make up the driving force behind SCM's technological innovations, its development of digital instruments which make every production phase ever more customisable.

Events

The Maestro Digital Systems are an SCM project that is a prime example of this intent. It embraces all the latest woodworking tools and digital developments.

"The Digital Days were an opportunity to experience live and first-hand the true benefits offered by the Maestro Digital Systems," says Luigi De Vito, Scm Wood Division and Group Sales & Marketing Director. "It is an ambitious project. A sign of the times, certainly, but also of a corporate commitment and spirit, that is of SCM, which has always been at the service of each and every woodworking operator and followed the real needs of the target market. Change is underway. And SCM is dictating its pace, having presented to thousands of visitors who attended this event machines and applications that had been designed to employ all the latest technological trends and anticipate future ones, sharing the new arguments that drive the current evolution of our industry and turn them into common assets."

In the Digital Hub, the stand set up at the centre of the SCM Technology Centre, visitors could attend live demonstrations of the new Maestro Digital Systems platform and instruments: Eye-M, the Maestro eye on the world, is the next-generation multifunction and multi-touch operator panel, with a 21.5" screen, which introduces the mobile-device feel and approach to the industrial production environment; Maestro Smartech, the innovative remote assistance and maintenance system which employs augmented reality glasses so you can have an SCM technician at your side while experimenting with the future wearable technology; Maestro Suite, the powerful software collection with applications for any type of machining and production processes; Maestro Xplore, a simulation system for integrated cells and lines based on the use of the Oculus 3D virtual reality viewer, a breakthrough in the quest to fully know every detail so as to be able to optimise a production programme; Maestro Datalink, the highly innovative IoT (Internet of Things) tools platform which enables the

Reality glasses, so the operator can have an SCM technician at their side at all times

collection of machine data for later analysis. These systems are guided by the Smart Factory concept, aiming to monitor and improve production processes in order to provide a reliable predictive maintenance, which predicts when extraordinary maintenance is required and thus minimises production idle times.

LATEST INNOVATIONS AT THE SCM ARENA The digital evolution of production systems requires new skills and the ability to follow day by day the ever-evolving industrial culture. One has to be prepared, in short, to face the new frontiers. Plenty of industrial insights were offered during the packed programme of meetings at the SCM Arena during the Digital Days: Tech Talks that focused on trends, strategies and success stories and headed by SCM experts and special guests from leading companies.

Among these, the IFT Rosenheim Institute, regarded as one of the highest technical and scientific authorities on the subject of windows, doors and façades, which led discussions centred on the Smart Home and on the future smartphone-controlled windows; Lignum Consulting, a consulting firm at the forefront of the wood and furniture industries, which described the new Industry 4.0 and the Connected Factory technological frontiers; representing SCM, Christian Terfruechte explained "production methods and

technology in the digital age", whereas Albin Siegert described the new challenges faced by machine producers of taller and taller wood high-rise buildings.

THE MOST ADVANCED MACHINERY FOR CUSTOMISED AND INTEGRATED PRODUCTION On display at the Scm Technology Centre were new solutions for every type of industrial production processes – from furniture and boat building to windows and doors and to wood construction – and the most reliable woodworking machinery to offer them. A fit companion for all the various types of production processes, with their specific requirements, is the powerful Maestro Suite, a complete software collection shown at the Digital Days in its latest version with its hugely improved performance, open systems that allow all types of connection and full control over machine operations, while making operators' work easy and intuitive.

Examples include the new Optimiser for beam saws, which cuts calculation times by 80% and machining waste by 40- 50%.

Highly successful was also the Maestro Watch supervising system which operates independently lines of integrated cells.

For further information: Tel: 0115 9770044 www.scmgroup-uk.com

Events

0:IHJ$E2J3A??IBBJ/GI=C?DB 3DGFH8 7ADAGIJ&GF-D>J7FG 9 Major supplier of high-performance routing, cutting and print finishing systems to a wide range of disparate industries, AXYZ International recently held its first 2018 Open Day event. This again took place at the Royal Air Force Museum in north London that has proved such a popular and easily accessible venue for previous similar events.

A

ccording to AXYZ International’s Vice President (Market Development), Robert Marshall: “It was one of the best of the Open Day events held so far, attracting a large number of existing and potential new customers and facilitating demonstrations throughout the day of selected machines from the extensive AXYZ portfolio. It also allowed promotion of our 24/7 online resource for tooling options, spare parts, accessories and consumables. Application specialists were on hand to answer questions, provide technical support and discuss our bespoke product training courses.”

The recently upgraded AXYZ Trident hybrid CNC combined routing/cutting machine and an AXYZ 4000 series Twin Z router were the key products on display and were shown handling different materials to highlight specific machining capabilities. Both machines featured the AXYZ ATC (Automatic Tool Change) facility, whilst the Trident also incorporated both the AXYZ AVS (AXYZ Vision System) for radically enhanced machining accuracy to accommodate the more intricate finishing applications for which the machine was designed as well as an oscillating knife unit for handling materials specific to these applications.

The Trident machine features a triple-head tool configuration, comprising a CNC router spindle coupled with tangential and oscillating knife-cutting units. These units are interchangeable to enable the processing of frequently problematical thin materials such as vinyl and foils and thicker and heavier materials like solid woods, foamed and particle boards, aluminium and other non-

10

The AXYZ International’s Open Day event attracted a large number of existing and potential new customers

ferrous metals, aluminium composite sheet (ACM), acrylic and plastics.

AXYZ International also announced a number of new production tool enhancements. These include a kiss-cut knife-cutting tool, a high-speed 8.7HP 40,000rpm router spindle and an expanded ATC facility. The kiss-cut knife option extends the functionality of AXYZ CNC routers by accommodating a much wider range of materials. It can be adapted to fit most of the commonly used routing/cutting spindles and tangential knife tools. The HDS spindle is said to represent a major advancement in high-speed routing and cutting by providing up to three times the power and speed of a standard spindle and with no compromise on the quality of the

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

edge finish on the materials being processed. The expanded ATC facility features a choice of 10 or 14 tool stations to complement the existing seven- and 21station options.

Robert Marshall concluded: “This first 2018 Open Day has built on the success of its predecessors. I was particularly impressed with the positive interest shown by many of our prime existing as well as the number of potential new customers who visited the event which serves as an indicator of the ongoing business strength and market status of AXYZ International.”

For further information: Tel: 01952 291600 www.axyz.co.uk

THE WORLD’S #1 WOODWORKING CAM SOFTWARE Alphacam Router is an easy-to-use CAD/CAM solution for manufacturers wanting fast, efficient toolpaths and the generation of reliable, machine ready CNC code.

www.alphacam.com

Power Tools

5E!CDE B I- B#"# "<< 3@C=IJ4F<:FAH= 5CDGIJ3E'I:@E?IBJ6H=ABDG2 3DEH=EG= The current generation of wood machinists, carpenters, fixing carpenters and structural timber installers has recognised the Makita LS1016 260mm slide compound mitre saw as the benchmark by which all other machines have been compared. Now, the new Makita LS1019 will establish an even higher level of technical attributes and reliable performance. This new 260mm slide compound mitre saw is powered by a 1,510w motor which will run the blade up to 3,200rpm maximum.

A

mongst the many new features on this leading mitre saw is the design of sliding head layout. The twin slide rails are set at an angle in the rigid aluminium alloy chassis frame, while the rear chassis fixing is positioned right at the rear of the saw assembly so that the machine can be placed close to a bench wall. The robust rails allow the saw head to move forward to cover the total sawing zone without the wasted movement of the motor head passing back behind the sawing zone.

The robust aluminium alloy main bed is fully machined for accuracy giving a large turning base. The rear fence has adjustable material locks and side holders for wider pieces of material. The new Makita LS1019 has class leading mitre and bevel capacities – 60° L to 60° R mitre, and 48° L to 48° R bevel. A front knob enables easy bevel adjustment with easy-to-operate mitre angle lock and one-touch sliding head lock. The cutting performance also sets high standards: at straight cut the Makita LS1019 will cut 91mm deep across a 279mm width whilst with a 45° L or R mitre angle and 45° L bevel angle the maximum is 58mm x 197mm.

The electronic controls feature soft start for machine and operator safety; constant speed control; electronic brake; double insulation and a laser marker system on the

12

The Makita Slide Compound Mitre Saw

LS1019L model. 110v and 240v versions of this new mitre saw are available. In addition, a cordless 36v version, the Makita DLS5110, is ideal for major on-site operations and includes all the core features available on the mains LS1019 model.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

For further information: www.makitauk.com Twitter @MakitaUK Facebook.com/makitauk google.com/+makitauk

Power Tools

9JHI- # "<< DGCEH8A@EG BEH=CH8 :E=J)FGJ<A@DC,DFF@BJ Fein recently approached Jon Sanders, an experienced bespoke carpentry & joinery business owner to review its 130mm triangular sanding pad whilst operating multi-tools in the workplace.

T

he Surrey based carpentry and joinery business fit kitchens, decking, flooring, as well as constructing furniture and project managing various shop fittings/retail projects when requested.

Jon says â&#x20AC;&#x153;I work on very high-end bespoke kitchens a lot of the time and so it is crucial that the tools I use deliver precise work, with good finishesâ&#x20AC;?.

Jon puts a great amount of emphasis on planning, delivering all cutting and sanding work in advance. During such stages Jon uses other tools to deliver the job, but when on the job, the Fein multi-tool and accessories are always immediately on hand to save Jon valuable time and effort, and provide the best finish.

The 130mm sanding pad is part of the Starlock system

Recently Jon found himself in a situation and needed Fein to save his bacon whilst delivering some bespoke cabinets. He had sanded them down before lacquering, using a circular oscillating machine with a 3mm oscillating pad in order to achieve the initial sanding results he needed. Later on into the job he realised he had forgotten to finish the backs with a finer grit, and so he pulled out his corded Fein machine, and the new 130mm pad to help assist him. He attached the piece onto the oscillating machine, placing a 180 grit sheet over the sanding pad.

What he really liked about the 130 mm pad was that it secured tightly into the fitting system, without wobbling when the machine is operated. He found that it outperformed the smaller pad he had used multiple times before in such circumstances. Despite being bigger he

felt it got into tighter areas, and he felt it was much easier to manoeuvre. He really liked the foam backing within the pad itself, offering nice density and balance.

Overall, Jon really loved the new 130mm sanding pad and sheets, and would

highly recommend it.

For further information: Tel: 01924 374099 Email: sales@powertoolsgb.co.uk www.powertoolsuk.co.uk

Key Benefits To The 130mm Sanding Pad 1111 .1) /,+1.&/1/*( "+/,101$"%&1'0,!/,1+", 0%/10,/01.)1 ), 1)*1$/(-"$ +- /(1+", 0%/+ #,) -(-*!10*10'./,*0.- /1.)1+0*(/,+ 1 ),1$)+.1$"'.- .))'1/*(1"+/,+ 1 1111 &/1#0(1-+101#0,.1) 1.&/1 .0,')% 1+ +./$ 1$/0*-*!1.&0.1-.1%0*10..0%&1.)1.&/1$0%&-*/ /0+-' 10*(1 -''1 -.1+/%",/' 1 &/1#0(10*(1.&/10..0%&-*!1) 1+0*(-*!1+&//.+1-+1/0+ 1.)

0%&-/ / 10*(1.&/1+&//.+1%0*1%)$/10+1#/, ),0./( 1"+/(1 -.&1),1 -.&)".1("+.1/ .,0%.-)* &/,/1-+101#'0+.-%1%0,,-/,1#'0./1 ),1#,/ /*.-*!1(0$0!/10*(1$0, +1)*1.&/1 ), 1#-/%/ 1 1111 &/1 $$1+0*(-*!1#0(1 /(!/1'/*!.&1 1$$ 1%0*1 /1#",%&0+/(10+1#0,.1) 10 +.0*(0')*/1 -. 1%)*.0-*-*!1.&/1#0(10*(1 1/0%&1) 1!,-.1 1 1 1),1-+10 0-'0 '/1-* 0,-)"+1 1 -.+ 1$)+.1*).0 ' 1.&/1 **- /,+0, 1 (-.-)*1+/.1 &-%&1 0+1#,)$)./(1 ,)$ /#./$ /,1 0*"0, 1 1 )$/10,/1+.-''1 /10 0-'0 '/10.1'0,!/,1(/0'/,+ 1 ),1.&)+/ +// -*!101 0,!0-* 1 /-*1) /,+101$"'.-#0% 1(/0'11%)*.0-*-*!1 1#-/%/+1 -*%'"(-*! %-,%"'0,1 1+$0''1.,-0*!"'0,1#0(+ 1+&//.+10*(101%0, -(/1,0+# 1 ),1'/++1.&0*1 1#/,1#-/%/ 11

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

13

Case Study

AIBDJ FCHIG2J.I?F<IBJ)CGBD J?F<:EH2 DFJCH(IBDJCHJE +059&J*IHDAGI %5&J## Established in 2011, Hertfordshire based Quest Joinery has become a leading provider of high quality joinery for both commercial and residential clients. An increase in workload and orders, however, saw the company need to expand its workforce and production facility to keep up with demand.

“

It has always been in our business plan to invest in a CNC and the need for expansion meant we decided to automate production processes ahead of our original timeline”, explains Allan Jackson, production director at Quest Joinery. “Once we agreed it was time to invest in new machinery, we spent a couple of months researching the market thoroughly.”

Making the right choice with HOMAG “Of the brands we evaluated, HOMAG was the most accommodating. They arranged for us to visit another of their customers, East Coast Fittings. There we were able to experience the HOMAG Venture 109M CNC in a working environment. In addition, we received a full CNC machine demonstration at HOMAG UK’s Castle Donington showroom.

This was very reassuring and made the decision to purchase a HOMAG BMG 114 CNC machine easy.

“The confidence we had in HOMAG and its machinery meant we were excited, rather than nervous, to be the first company in the UK to install the new Venture BMG 114.

Naturally, we thought we might experience some teething troubles, but actually we didn’t encounter any issues at all. The BMG is proving to be a fantastic addition to our facility.”

The HOMAG BMG 114 CNC – superior technology “HOMAG has a reputation within the market for being a step ahead of the competition. This was clearly evident as the BMG 114 has no limitations compared to some of the other CNCs we viewed.

“The concept of having a CNC machine was new to us, so it was essential that we picked the right model for our facility. With our prior knowledge and experience of CNC technology being limited, it was fantastic to be able to speak to the machine operator and ask any questions we had. This all helped to give us the confidence we needed to make the right decision.

“The HOMAG team were very professional and had a lot of time for all our questions.

They displayed the same caring approach to business as we give to our customers.

14

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

Although it wasn’t the cheapest machine we looked at, the BMG 114 was a much higher specification than we were originally looking for and the additional features have been a welcome bonus, more than justifying the investment.

“As a bespoke joinery company, the versatility of the machine was really important to us. On a daily basis we produce a mix of work including doors, wall panelling, reception desks and units. So, we chose the pod and rail system because we do a lot of solid work as well as bespoke intricate projects which require high levels of precision.

“In terms of tools, we started with a basic set, the idea being to add more tools as we progressed. We initially invested in cutting tools and an aggregate head; this gave us

Increased production and product offering for Quest Joinery

Case Study

HOMAG Venture BMG114 – designed to allow operator access from all four sides

the ability to cut shapes and carry out complex work, such as cutting locks out of door sets and producing intricate joint details. Our products use a wide variety of materials including leather and brass, and the BMG 114 ensures accurate cut outs for these inserts.

“What really impressed us about the BMG 114 is the ability to operate it from all four sides. It means you don’t need to worry about where you place the machine, as it’s accessible from every side. This is great for a smaller factory, especially as the machine itself already has a 15% reduction in footprint size. So even placing the CNC in a corner space is no longer an issue.

“In addition to this, the ‘Bumper Safety Rail’ technology means the machine automatically stops itself if the moving gantry is about to come into contact with operators or any other obstruction. If the machine does come too close and it stops, there are no delays in production. Once the obstruction has cleared, it instantly restarts itself after a couple of seconds without the need for any re-programming. The technology removes the need for any fencing or matting which means you can

work all round the machine.

“The BMG 114 is running HOMAG’s woodWOP software. Our operators visited HOMAG UK at Castle Donington for software training and thought the training course was comprehensive. Despite having a few weeks gap between completing the training course and the installation of the machine, the operators were still able to get to grips with it really quick. It is very clear that the software has been designed with the user in mind and has been kept simple and intuitive.”

A 35% increase in production for Quest Joinery The CNC has not only increased production output by 35 per cent, but it has also allowed us to expand our product offering. It has enabled us to be able to take on larger projects and we are now completing work in-house, such as sign writing and engraving which we previously outsourced. Without this new machine, we simply would not be able to turnover what we are doing today.

“Previously, parts of our production were carried out by hand, but the CNC has

reduced manual labour levels for us. As a result, our repeatable accuracy and quality has increased which in-turn has led to a lower volume of waste. We are producing the same items before in a fraction of the time and the quality is in a totally different league from where we were.

“In terms of paying for the machine, we used HOMAG finance to arrange a fiveyear payment plan. They came highly recommended within the industry and the terms were simple and easy to understand.

Now the BMG is operational, we predict it will pay for itself within 30 months.

“As part of our expansion, we also invested in a HOMAG Ambition 1650 edgebander with both hotmelt and PU glue options. This was to replace our smaller and older existing edgebander. It will provide us with the capabilities to further expand our product range to include fire rated doors,” concludes Allan Jackson.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of any of the HOMAG range of CNC routers and machining centres, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG Tel: 01332 856424

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

15

Profile

+059& 4@FBIBJ;>IJ&E:J6HJ6DB /FGD)F@CF 0) 3AG)E?I ;I?>HF@F82 Last spring, HOMAG premiered an extension to its finishing technology product range. Announced at LIGNA 2017, the all new GSF 100 series offers a compact spraying solution for furniture parts, doors, stairs, and interior fitting elements. Ideally suited to small and medium sized companies, the GSF is the perfect machine to step up into the world of automated painting and lacquering.

E

quipped with a reciprocating arm and four spray guns, these machines feature a fully automated vacuum conveyor belt to transport work pieces for completely flexible, throughput efficiency.

The GSF 100 can be used as both a standalone spray machine or as part of an extensive finishing line.

The integration of an automated paint application system ensures that a continuously high quality finish is achieved with every job. This reduces the amount of overspray waste, consequently enhancing the cost savings for the user. The cost efficiencies are also boosted via the GSF’s intelligent work piece detection system. A high resolution light grid accurately identifies the contours of each part, precisely controlling the paint flow of the individual spray guns.

produced when using manual paint application. The GSF 100 can provide consistently high quality painting or lacquering for up to 2,400 parts per shift HOMAG GSF 100 S – automated spraying with an added throughfeed alternative The GSF 100 S has been specifically developed to offer the market an efficient alternative to manual spraying. Enhancing the automated spraying application process, this model has been purposely built to deliver low operating costs at an affordable investment level.

Equipped with a complete throughfeed transport belt, work pieces are effortlessly fed into the spray booth on individual trays.

Once the spraying process is complete, the parts continue to be conveyed out of the machine to the end of the belt. Especially designed to transport even the smallest of parts, this model widens the opportunity of production possibilities.

In the standard specification, the large machine filters are easily accessible and replaceable for simplicity of cleaning and HOMAG GSF 100 SH – enhancing general maintenance. This feature reduces spraying technology with automated the effort required from the operators in efficiencies terms of the upkeep of the machine. In With the GSF 100 SH, HOMAG offers an addition, the introduction of automatic automated work piece handling concept for spraying within production significantly the loading and unloading of parts. Based increases the working on the standard GSF 100 range conditions for employees. of features, the ‘SH’ model is This is a result of capable of one-man operation. the reduction in paint Using an exposure as innovatively well as a designed infeed reduced system, components workload are gently guided The HOMAG GSF 100SH compact spraying machine into the spray booth. pressure

16

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

Once the spraying process is complete the parts are then reloaded back on the work piece loading trolley. This concept provides an easy, flexible and reliable finishing solution that requires low personnel and, due to its compact design, low production space.

The GSF 100 SH can be adapted and individually specified to meet the production demands of the manufacturer. Specific functions can be incorporated to the standard model to offer increased flexibility.

Combining a two-way loading function provides uninterrupted operating cycles.

Subsequently, this doubles the amount of work pieces within the machine, since one loading rack can be changed whilst the other batch is in operation.

Furthermore, the largest of production volumes can be achieved on the GSF 100 SH by doubling both the automated concepts of loading and unloading. The use of a two-way loading function at both sides of the machine delivers an almost ‘selfsufficient’ concept, significantly increasing efficiency in production.

The new GSF range of machinery from HOMAG opens up the possibilities for cost effective automatic spraying technology at all levels of industry. With flexible payment plans available from HOMAG Finance, these machines have never been so affordable.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of the HOMAG GSF 100 spraying machines, please contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK: Tel: 01332 856424

CNC machines for nesting, furniture and door production

The AES group manufactures one of the most comprehensive ranges of flat bed CNC machines for nesting and shaping flat panels. From the entry level FLEXA which is ideal for sign makers, the NOVA for the busy bespoke manufacturer, the EXTREME for heavy duty nesting to the RAPTOR for the ultimate and efficient solution for heavy industry. All machines use Alphacam CAD/CAM software and have linear speeds starting from 70 m/min, future proofing the machines as tooling technology advances towards faster cutting speeds.

Did you know that there is a nesting tool that can cut at 50 m/min?

AES also manufactures a comprehensive range of pod and rail style machines for those looking to drill, shape and process components, along with the SIRIUS through feed drilling, grooving and routing machine. For the processing of internal and external doors, there is a machine with a horizontal routing head or there is even the 5 axis machine for added flexibility and endless possibilities.

J & C O’Meara Ltd Tel: 01704 893109 info@ukwoodworkingmachinery.co.uk www.ukwoodworkingmachinery.co.uk Unit 4, Falcon Place, Burscough, Lancashire L40 8RT

Fastening

0**0 EAH?>IBJ I-J*,# " 6H(CBC.@IJ4FHHI?DFGJ,JJ/IG)I?D 7FGJ+C8>,&GE=IJ/EGDC?@IJ%FEG=

O

VVOÂŽ, creator of the innovative, award-winning, INVISIBLE connection system, is excited to announce the launch of another NEW product in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vâ&#x20AC;? range, in direct response to industry requirements.

The new connector - the V-1230 incorporates all features of the Interzum 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of the Bestâ&#x20AC;?-award winning V0930 in a format that is ideally suited to high grade chipboard of 15, 16 and 18mm thickness, and is also available in both permanent and releasable versions. The V-1230 was launched at FIMMA, Valencia on 6th February, and is available to order from www.ovvotech.com.

The new V-1230 connector has a deeper profile than the award-winning V-0930 connector, and significantly increases the holding strength delivered in chipboard materials, in which OVVOÂŽ can be used to deliver an invisible connection. It works best in high-grade chipboard with thickness of 15mm, 16mm & 18mm and above, and is also compatible with leading high-end materials, such as high pressure laminates, composite material and solid woods.

The innovative dovetail design featured in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of the Bestâ&#x20AC;? award-winning V-0930 connector is retained and delivers increased intrinsic tolerance, which leads to enhanced shear and tensile strength of the joint created; the new connector also features a solid central rib that confers increased joint rigidity. The single piece housing makes automatic insertion possible â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a significant enhancement on the design of the original 1240 OVVOÂŽ connector.

18

The team at OVVOÂŽ has worked tirelessly with industry partners to ensure the new connector is compatible with benchmark industry equipment - specifically with leading CNC equipment suppliers and software vendors to ensure ease of adoption leading to fully integrated manufacturing processes. Each connection set is used with its own bespoke OVVO cutter for CNC compatibility and all OVVO connection sets are designed to work in conjunction with the OVVO hand tool (AB181), developed with Virutex.

Launching at FIMMA, Valencia, Spain on February 6th, the V-1230 will be demonstrated in a range of applications by Virutex on behalf of OVVO Ltd. It can also be ordered directly from www.ovvotech.com. from that date.

OVVOÂŽ is now fully accessible to every level of the industry, from large scale, CNC-equipped, manufacturer to DIYenthusiast. Architects, interior designers and clients associated with prestige construction projects in both residential and commercial property sectors are increasingly seeking more flexibility in design, and OVVOÂŽ can inspire a wider range of design possibilities.

The range of applications that manufacturers are finding for OVVOÂŽ continues to increase, and the benefits and efficiencies that OVVOÂŽ brings to customers are continually being proven: this invisible, tool-free connection system not only saves customers time and money, driven by increased production efficiencies, reduced product assembly

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

The V-1230 invisible connector for chipboard panels

times and reduced shipping and transportation costs, but also provides customers with a differentiated product or service that allows them develop significant competitive advantage in their industry channels.

OVVOÂŽ MD Brendan Phillips said â&#x20AC;&#x153;the industry has been excited by OVVOÂŽ since the original 1240 connector launched; we have identified significant demand for a product that will work effectively in chipboard and proudly present the V-1230.

We are truly excited to extend the awardwinning V-range and bring the bigger connector to market that widens the range and scale of applications to which OVVOÂŽ can bring a unique set of design possibilities and production efficienciesâ&#x20AC;?.

The NEW OVVOÂŽ V-1230 connection system is now available.

For further information: Tel: +353(42) 9370070 Email: sales@ovvotech.com www.ovvotech.com

Installation

7AGD>IGJ0H8FCH8J6H(IBD<IHD F)J # 5JEDJ 0:@?

J

JO plc Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Furniture Manufacturer, based in East Lancashire have recently placed an order with German precision panel furniture machine manufacturer, IMA for two new CNC machines.

The investment of over €1.6M ensures JJO production, remains efficient, accurate and of the highest possible quality. The BIMA Processing centre can create unusual shaped panels, such as “L” shape & radius ends, arrives in July 2018. The Combina which mills, edges and groves panels, is on a longer lead-time and will arrive with JJOplc in May 2019.

The significant investment is in addition to a recent complete new extraction system and is part of an ongoing rolling investment program ensuring JJOplc manufacturing facility remains at the forefront of technology.

machining of size and edge on the tandem worktables, synchronous machining of complex workpiece geometries and support for pendulum processing increase the availability of your machine enormously. This goes hand-in-hand with a significant increase in our production due to the addition of a second router unit that will increase capacity by 40%. The BIMA Px80 series can be adapted effortlessly to individual production requirements.

The investment of over €1.6M ensures JJO production, remains efficient, accurate and of the highest possible quality. The BIMA Processing centre can create unusual shaped panels, such as “L” shape & radius ends, arrives in July 2018. The Combina which mills, edges and groves panels, is on a longer lead-time and will arrive with JJOplc in May 2019.

IMA Combina machine is about edge processing at the highest level: that’s what Combina panel sizing and edgebanding combination machine stands for, the result is always superior. Thanks to modern edge banding and accurate edge processing, the Combina is perfect for kitchen and furniture construction. The fine finishing process, which is carried out after the edging tape is applied is designed to suit exactly the needs of the customer. This makes the Combina an individual and unique machine for edge processing, which meets all requirements placed on furniture construction. The addition of a KFA milling unit allows for accurate finishing on all edges from 0.8mm to 3.0mm, with a running speed of between 30 – 50 m/min, also we have managed to reduce the space between each panel increasing capacity by 25%. The machine quickly sets itself up to perform the required machining on each part, simultaneously ensuring both capacity and flexibility. machine quickly sets itself up to perform the required machining on each part, simultaneously ensuring both capacity and flexibility.

The significant investment is in addition to a recent complete new extraction system and is part of an ongoing rolling investment program ensuring JJOplc manufacturing

For further information: Tel: 01706 877877 Email: info@jjoplc.com www.jjoplc.com

Numerous tooling options are available.

BIMA machine is a modular design BIMA Px80 gantry machine is a cost-efficient solution that will enable us to meet our customers' every need with flexibility, precision and speed, giving you a clear advantage over the competition. By investing in the ergonomically designed machine technology, we can be sure that your money is safe for the future. The highperformance BIMA Px80 gantry machine can open up new and particularly innovative solutions for all our applications. The new and innovative AEK finishing unit (IMA patent) combines flush milling, profile scraping and flat scraping in a single unit.

Moreover, all parameters stored in the controller are set fully automatically. Costly manual setup of the units is no longer required: expensive erroneous parts are avoided and, thanks to perfect finishing results, the costly running-in of workpieces is no longer a requirement. Overlaid

facility remains at the forefront of technology.

JJO plc Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Furniture Manufacturer, based in East Lancashire have recently placed an order with German precision panel furniture machine manufacturer, IMA for two new CNC machines.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

19

Case Study

;>IJ E::EJ "J5E!IBJ9H 1HDGEH?IJ9DJ3>E!IG 8F Shaker2go ltd specialise in handmade shaker doors and with each order made to your individual specification, you get nothing but perfection. Having come from a background in cabinetry for kitchen and bedrooms they found themselves leaning more towards the shaker style door than any other style and eventually decided to start producing shaker products that would be available to order online for developers and tradesmen.

H

aving started in a small workshop and building the business up with just a small rail saw, Managing Director Phil Temple reinvested the profits they were making into better machinery to grow his business. At the start of 2016 they were ready to upgrade their extraction and began to search the market Phil commented “My first introduction to FELDER was when we were looking for an extractor, we needed something professional and portable, We purchased the AF 22 mobile dust extraction Unit. We then met the team from FELDER to see what else they could do for us, what we needed was something that could create a straight line cut for us without any issues.” They went on to purchase a Kappa 550 e-motion sliding table saw from FELDER’s FORMAT-4 range, when talking about his machine Phil

The Felder Kappa 550 e-motion sliding table saw installed at Shaker2go Limited

said “It has an automated rip fence, extralong sliding table, it’s got a lot of

“

We were looking for a company we could expand with.”

programmable functionality and CNC equipped so that in the future when we want to expand and do more complicated

components the machine is ready for us.”

Going on to say “We do a lot of rips for our doors and make a lot of components, what this panel saw has enabled us to do is be much quicker by being able to adjust and run different cutting lists for each job, door style and size at the push of a button.”

“We were looking for a company we could expand with and FELDER have their customer service based in the UK, giving us instant access to their services. The great thing is the availability for contact, if we have ever had any issues they have been dealt with immediately. We have had a lot of advice and that is what we wanted, in the future when we expand we already know where we are going to go!”

For further information: Tel: 01908 635 000 www.felder-group.co.uk You can watch the full testimonial on YouTube at FELDER GROUP UK TV.

The Felder Kappa 550 e-motion sliding table saw installed at Shaker2go Limited

20

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

S M O O R TO T H G U BRO

LIFE

decofoil deco foil 3D Forming Veneers for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture We offer an exciting range of contemporary and traditional styles, all with excellent board matches Find out more about our exciting range of contemporary LG Hausys PVC foil materials for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom.

Call: +44 (0)1376 518037

Decorative Surfaces

E<IB ED>E<J9HHFAH?IJ1 ?@ABC(I *IHIIGJ$IE@J CD>J$I?FB:EH James Latham has agreed a deal to become the exclusive UK distributor for Decospan’s added value products which includes the Shinnoki, Querkus, Nørdus and Look’likes collections.

D

ecospan is a European leader in premium veneer processing and its unique production methods capture and enhance the beauty, colour, markings and structure of solid wood, combining these with the many advantages of a veneered panel.

Shinnoki The new Shinnoki range offers prefinished wood veneered panels for architects, designers and furniture makers, allowing them to create stylish and distinctive interiors. Unlike regular veneered panels, Shinnoki products are supplied ready-touse and do not require further finishing.

Available in sixteen on-trend finishes such as Manhattan Oak, Cinnamon Triba and Stardust Walnut, Shinnoki panels also offer phenolic laminate backs and matching edging plus, Shinnoki is as easy to work with as a melamine board, delivering time and cost-saving benefits while maintaining the natural, lively appearance of wood, both visually and to the touch.

Querkus Sourcing both FSC® Certified European White Oak and reclaimed Oak timbers, Querkus offers designers unprecedented choice. New for 2018, the range includes Oak Natural, Oak Vintage and Oak Smoked finishes offering flexibility and customisation, allowing a specifier to select a panel that meets exactly their colour, pattern, touch and budgetary needs.

create simple, yet practical interiors that are timeless. With Nørdus, only the best softwood and Birch is collected and carefully processed into finely cut veneer.

Advanced surface treatments reinforce the unique beauty of the wood and highlight its 3D aspect Look’likes Look’likes offer the great looks of real wood in an affordable and environment-friendly product, benefits that every designer can appreciate. The Look’likes collection is made of real wood but not with the actual wood species. FSC® Certified wood species such as Ayous, Spruce or Poplar are given the appearance of a different wood specie such as Oak, Ebony, Teak or Zebrano.

Chris Sutton, Managing Director of James Latham said, “Decospan has been a strategic partner of James Latham for a number of years now and this agreement is fantastic news and fits perfectly with our plans to develop this sector.

Querkus Oak Vintage

“Reaction from architects and designers to all of these ranges has been really positive, and we are already seeing specifications coming through, particularly for high-end residential, retail, commercial and hospitality projects.”

For further information: Tel: 0116 257 3415 Email: marketing@lathams.co.uk www.lathamtimber.co.uk

Nørdus Nørdus is inspired by Scandinavian and modernist style which allows designers to

22

Look’likes Palissandor Santos

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

Shinnoki Manhattan Oak

Decorative Surfaces

=:,@C<CD@IBB A:=EDIJ J The beginning of 2017 saw the launch of dp-limitless, a dp-lamination range of specialist surfaces offered from as little as one sheet.

d

p-limitless provides a countless offer of surface finishes bonded with a high strength PUR glue line to the substrate of choice. Surfacing materials include; Laminate Collections, the full range of Senoplast Acrylics including the matt and Acryl Glass designs, Real Stone Veneer, Faux Leather, Natural Wood Veneer Laminate, Technical Surfaces and of course Unique, one off surface finishes providing contemporary and traditional bespoke surface solutions.

lamination can continue to offer the most current trends laminated to the substrate of choice.

So far it has been a success with lots of interest generated through the press and our presence at The Surface & Materials Show in October. Over the past few months the design and marketing teams have been busy researching and testing the latest surface finishes on the market so dp-

Alpi Veneers, a range of seven decorative composite wood surfaces which perfectly replicate the colours and grains of natural wood.

Metropolitan Light Grey from A E Core

The latest additions will include; Rehau Crystal Mirror, a versatile acrylic which gives a perfect mirror reflection but with added benefits. It is lighter than genuine glass and can be processed with conventional woodworking tools. The durability is higher than glass and is a much safer product as it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t shatter.

AECORE, is a line of eight thermoplastic decorative laminates for use in furniture

Palma Range from Malone Fabrics

design and the architectural sector.

Malone Fabrics, A vast selection of artificial leathers to add to the faux leather range.

These versatile materials convey a feeling of comfort and elegance and are second to none in terms of sustainability and ease of care.

These new products will be available from April so until then keep your eyes peeled for further information in trade press and on our Twitter page.

There really is no limit to what we can offer!

For further information: Tel: 01484 658341 Email: info@decorativepanels.co.uk www.decorativepanels.co.uk

Alpi Veneer

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

23

Decorative Surfaces

;>IJ/IG)I?DJ1=8IJ7CHCB>J, CHDGF=A?CH8 =:,BIE<@IBB It’s exciting times at Decorative Panels Components as we have been installing the ultimate fully automated edgebanding line at our state of the art factory in Elland. Purchased from Biesse and measuring a staggering 59 metres, this new line will focus primarily on high quality fascia production, processing tapes from 0.4mm to 2mm thick.

R

eplacing three manually fed and stacked high speed edgebanding machines, the line further increases the overall quality of our panels while also greatly adding to the efficiency of our factory. Panels are automatically fed into the machine, sized, edgebanded allround through linked first and second pass machines, grooved if required, cleaned and then automatically stacked at speeds of up to 32 parts per minute. As a result, our edgebanding capacity is significantly increased while manual intervention is eliminated.

The main aim of this investment was to introduce to our customers the very best edgebanded panels technology has to offer. The line is equipped with three different glueline technologies therefore allowing us to offer good/better/best categories at very affordable price points…

1. EVA Glue - EVA is the most common glue available and allows us to provide a suitable glueline for price sensitive product.

2. 2x PUR Glue - The use of PUR allows for absolute minimal visibility of a glueline. We have equipped the line to distribute PUR glue in two colours; either natural or white subject to panel colour to further minimise any sight of the glueline on the panel. Of course for example on lighter colours white glue would be selected.

3. dp-seamless - To achieve the very best finish available on the market, Decorative Panels proudly introduce

24

the new dp-Seamless edgebanding standard. Our new line is fully equipped to process Rehau Raukantex Pro zero joint technology edgebanding

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

tape which cleverly creates the perfect invisible joint by means of a colour coordinated functional layer on the reverse. This layer acts as the bonding

Decorative Surfaces

additional advantage of course with NC control is automated setups between panel types; ensuring correct settings while greatly reducing downtime.

agent once heated with the Biesse Airforce technology.

It is important to note that in order to obtain the best results, Decorative Panels recognise that it is not only essential to have the latest bonding technology, but also the very best specification of sizing, trimming and finishing systems installed. Every aspect of our new line has been specified with full NC control allowing complete finetuning to ensure the finished tape profile glides seamlessly up to meet the panel fascia. All of this technology pulled together guarantees a truly spectacular finish that revolutionises the panel market. The

In order to complement this new major investment, Decorative Panels Components also now have on order a new Biesse Single Sided edgebander. Recognising the need to match the same high quality levels for smaller panels, this machine has been specified with exactly the same systems and control as the main line. It will also process the two colours of PUR and Rehau Raukantex Pro edgebanding tape, ensuring that the full spectrum of panel sizes, including small drawer fronts edged on all sides, can match the new dpseamless standard.

In conjunction with the spectacular scope of dp-limitless surfaces available from our Lamination division, our new dp-seamless edgebanding system will ensure that our customers leapfrog the competition with the very best that both surface and processing technology has to offer.

The dp-seamless standard is now available to the market and we are of course ready now to discuss your own specific requirements and future projects.

For further information: Tel: 01484 658341 Email: info@decorativepanels.co.uk www.decorativepanels.co.uk

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

25

Decorative Surfaces

$IBC8HJ;GIH=BJ+I@:J%FFBD J5EHA)E?DAGCH8 Kitchen buyers looking for the clean crisp lines of some high-end European designs have given an unexpected boost to UK furniture manufacturers prepared to increase their in-house capabilities.

Flat, slab-style doors are driving a design revolution according to Elliott Fairlie, head of décor management at laminate and wood-based panel manufacturer EGGER. “Customers are looking to emulate the contemporary door designs that feature in well-known European brands they come across, as they scour the internet and social media for inspiration.

“Many of the kitchen doors coming through today tend to be flat handleless slabs, often made from MFC or a lacquered-type product. That’s the thinking behind our award-winning

PerfectSense matt MDF boards which can be used for solid-colour frontals with antifingerprint properties – vital for avoiding the constant cleaning of handleless doors with push to open systems.

“As well as these new technologies in drawer and door systems, another big factor is customers looking for an alternative to other more traditional production methods – often seen in the form of the once-popular shaped doors such as Shaker style. This is where MFC offers a more stable alternative, with colour stability, whilst also allowing an exact match to the carcass and endpanels,” he said.

Michael Gerbl, EGGER head of marketing and product management for flooring products, Carsten Ritterbach, head of marketing and sales for building products, and Franz-Josef Susewind, head of product management for decorative products

As MFC print and textures have evolved – with tough, ever-more-realistic finishes – manufacturers have looked to integrate this material into their designs, with it being particularly well-suited to flat, slab-style doors.

Recent major improvements in edgebanding technology also mean manufacturers have been able to bring their door production in-house, rather than having to buy these in from the continent, often in bulk and therefore costly.

New machines let them produce their own cut and edged slab MFC doors. And, thanks to EGGER’s board and edging products being available from stock in small order quantities, they are not afraid to follow contemporary – and perhaps relatively short-lived – trends.

Slab doors in Egger’s Premium White W1000 PerfectSense gloss contrast with a countertop and side panel in H1180 ST37

26

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

“From a personal point of view, it’s good to see designers and retailers embracing new

Decorative Surfaces

Elements category. The tough, easy to clean Handscraped Oak and Slate Black decors were praised for their authentic appearance and long service life.

A fourth EGGER product – an edgeprofiled construction board – also received a special mention at the annual awards ceremony in Frankfurt attended by more than 1,300 people. Competition among entrants is fierce, with winners being judged to have added brand value through innovative design.

Slab doors make for a sleekmodern look

ideas and starting to think outside of the box rather than it simply being a case of them doing things the way they have always been done,” added Elliott.

“In terms of this new thinking producing market growth, I think we are only just starting to see the impact that the consumer is having on the UK’s furniture sector.

Its velvety matt and super-reflective gloss PerfectSense MDF panels won the Materials and Surfaces category in the German Design Awards – impressing judges with what they described as their exceptional tactile and aesthetic properties.

Bob Livesey, Commercial Director at EGGER Western European Division, said: “We are delighted to have received recognition for all three of our product areas from the German Design Council.

Each of the prestigious awards highlights the quality of EGGER’s products and acknowledges the hard work of our product and decor teams. We are constantly investing in new technology so we can develop innovative surfaces, trendled decor designs and market-leading products for our customers.”

For further information: Tel: 01434 613359 www.egger.com

EGGER’s laminate flooring products also picked up two wins – in the Building and

“As we continue to have issues with the strength of the pound, we will see the growth of UK manufacturers gaining market share in this area and providing a local alternative to the large European brands – which has to be good for all of us.” * EGGER has produced a new wallchart featuring cutting-edge design ideas, and a selection of décor combinations showcasing ‘cut and edged’ doors and frontals. For a free copy contact 0845 6068888 or marketinguk@egger.com Three award wins for EGGER from German Design Council EGGER has picked up top international awards from the German Design Council across all three of its product divisions.

A slab drawer in a ceramic décor with a push to open mechanism

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

27

Decorative Surfaces

6HDIGCFGJ7C@<J4GIEDIBJ;>I 'C8>D 6<E8IJ7FGJ;>I /C I@ %AC@=CH8 The new, innovative Pixel Business Centre in Waltham Abbey, Essex offers flexible office and workspace areas for start-ups, SMEs and established businesses.

F

inished to a high standard, the building which also features a gym and an Italian café was originally a warehouse but uniquely, has been completely refurbished using 90% recycled materials.

Interior Film’s versatility was also reflected in its use in the washroom/ toilet block where the brief required a real design statement. Once the shell of the toilets had been built T6 wrapped the wall panels with Interior Film to create a smooth seamless finish.

The interior elements including doors and walls had to have a fresh and creative feel while being considerate to the different types of tenants.

This innovative self-adhesive film is quick and easy to install and can be applied to almost any interior surface including: wood, metals, plasterboard, plastics and even melamine.

Specialist contractor T6 specified Interior Film –an architectural film manufactured

by LG Hausys and supplied in the UK by David Clouting – “as it offered a realistic natural look and allowed the design to flow from stone, concrete, and wood throughout the building” Over 50 old wooden doors with metal and glass portholes were brought to life using Interior Film’s modern colours and designs. The café featured reclaimed plywood for the bar area and walls which the T6 team covered with Interior Film, completing that element of the project in only one day.

Easy to clean and maintain, Interior Film is hardwearing and remains stable if exposed to heat, humidity or low temperatures. It has also passed robust bleach tests when used in hospital applications.

Available in a wide range of designs and finishes, Interior Film which has a CE and IMO classification can be viewed on the BIMSTORE website.

The Pixel Building demonstrates how refurbishment projects can greatly benefit from the use of Interior Film, not only by

being able to refurbish and transform existing materials with it, potentially saving thousands of pounds, but also by reducing the impact on the environment due to the dramatic reduction in waste.

For further information: www.davidclouting.co.uk

28

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

Decorative Surfaces

Metallo by Alvic

MFC SYNCRON range

LUXE Decorative Board

Panelco/Meyer Timber are the UK exclusive distributors of Alvic decorative boards and have extended their stock range to 46 decors in the LUXE, ZENITH & SYNCRON finishes, all of which come with matching edgebanding.

In addition to the gloss LUXE range there is ZENIT a supermatt surface, soft and silky to the touch, very resistant and an extremely low matt surface, and SYNCRON an MFC range with new and original designs and textures.

A nationwide delivery service is offered on the basis of Luxe Oriental Black

Syncron Ice

orders received by 5pm are delivered the next day with no minimum quantity. Barry Berman who is the UK agent enjoys working with Alvic.

“Working with Alvic is a pleasure as they are constantly improving and innovating their product range and Panelco/Meyer are backing us with extensive stocks to make sure that the LUXE, ZENIT and SYNCRON boards are available on demand.”

For further information: Tel: 07785 373118 www.grupoalvic.com

Luxe Oriental White PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

29

Decorative Surfaces

9J&FF=J3>F-J 7FGJ/GCHDJ9?FABDC?BJ Very Satisfied About First Participation At Surfaces Design Show London

K

ristoff Ver Eecke, General Manager Print Acoustics said: “We received positive feedback from UK professional visitors on our Print acoustics®Range at the international Interzum Fair in Cologne in 2017 . We showed our acoustical, decorative absorbing range on our European Home Markets with local specialists for sales and distribution.”

We support these organisations by participating in local exhibitions. After the architect@work fair in Paris, we had to convince the UK architect and designer community of the uniqueness of our functional and trendy acoustic timber panels. We visited the Surface Design Show in London before and we consider this fair a very good platform for our kind of high-end functional and decorative products as in export to build.

We have focused on the 5 USP’s of our range (effective correction of reverberation, black core board, Total solution wall and furniture, scratch &

The Print Acoustics stand attracted many visitors

impact resistance, largest decorative choice in market) and we also presented the Flex feature (for convex or concave shapes) of our product.

The stand had included also a T ssmall ‘experience’ room to test tthe absorption function of our products to the full. p

Kristoff Ver Eecke – General Manager of Print Acoustics (right) with the prestigious Surface Design Award

30

Mission accomplished: goals M achieved a This was the first time we T previewed our products to the p UK market to determine the U llevel of interest in our products by architects and p professional designers. The relevance of our product proposal to the UK Design

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

and Architects was confirmed: To say it with the words of one of the visiting architects on our Print Acoustics Booth: ‘ this is a product I have been looking for for years’.

Our products are often included in a design phase of bigger projects such as offices, conference halls, schools, theatres, hospitals, restaurants, sporting centers … and are therefore a ‘long cycle product’ (2 to 5 years) from concept to installation. Of course we would welcome all live inclusion in short term projects UK due to our participation at this exhibition.

For further information: www.printacoustics.be www.triplaco.be

Service, diversity and speed

Length.

Width.

Thickness.

Made to measure!

Ostermann delivers the matching edgings for more than 70 board suppliers, from 1 meter and within 24 hours.

www.ostermann.eu 2VWHUPDQQ 8. /WG 'URLWZLFK UK: Phone 01905 793 550 – sales.uk@ostermann.eu IE: Phone: 0044 1905 793 552 –sales.ie@ostermann.eu

Cleaners

'1$040 J;I?@CHI J0HI 7FGJ9@@ I- )CH=CH8B ,J I-J*C=IF Ostermann's Teclinex One For All cleaner combines numerous products for machine-based and manual cleaning. In their latest findings, independent testing institutes have confirmed the efficacy, tolerance and safe application. A new demonstration video shows where to use the cleaner and what was checked in detail.

O

ne For All - the name shows the concept of this modern Ostermann product that is made out of plant-based raw materials. With Teclinex One For All, you can reduce the number of cleaners in the workshop and thus also reduce the amount of dangerous substances and their logistic costs.

For sensitive surfaces Even senstive surfaces, such as acrylic edgings, can be cleaned with REDOCOL Teclinex One For All. The tolerance was recently certified according to DIN EN 12720 by an independent testing institute. Moreover, the Ostermann edging specialists matched the cleaner successfully to the entire Ostermann range, with plastic, acrylic, melamine and veneer edgings. Gentle cleaning is guaranteed as well for furniture surfaces made out of metal or containing metallic elements. Teclinex One For All fits seamlessly into the tried and tested REDOCOL family as a sustainable and environmentally friendly cleaning agent.

Protects the edgebanding machine units The tried and tested cleaner may be used just as well for EVA, PUR, HotAir, NIR and laser

REDOCOL Teclinex One For All is available in numerous pack sizes and different forms of delivery.

32

units. The protection of transport tracks and polyurethane rollers has been tested according to DIN EN ISO 62 and certified as "very good". Non-ferrous metal units have proven not to be harmed by the cleaner. The anti-corrosive characteristics of Teclinex One For All could be certified according to DIN EN ISO 2812-1 for non-ferrous metals such as aluminium, galvanised steel, zinc and brass.

Thus, REDOCOL Teclinex One For All can be applied easily and safely on edgebanding machine units, using commercial spraying systems.

REDOCOL Teclinex One For All is available in numerous pack sizes and different forms of delivery.

Skin tolerance dermatologically tested In the workshop, the carpenters/cabinet makers gets in contact with many different chemical substances. A lot of them can irritate and affect the skin. To certify the workplace safety of Teclinex One For All, the cleaner's skin tolerance was tested dermatologically by Dermatest GmbH and certified as "very good".

New: Product video on OstermannTV A picture is worth more than words!

Therefore, the new Ostermann product and application video for Teclinex One For All sums up the numerous advantages of the product. From the easy storage and safe manual and machine-based application to the immediate further processing of the workpieces in the manufacturing process after cleaning. The video shows how quickly the cleaner evaporates without leaving residue, or how it easily and quickly cleans demanding 3D arylic edgings and stubborn pencil markings. At the end of the video, the Ostermann experts give an important hint to the viewer: Transport tracks of edging machines often leave annoying marks on high gloss or super matt furniture finishes.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH/APRIL 2018

All product advantages, test results and practical application tipps may also be found in the new video on the Ostermann Website, on OstermannTV.

Subsequently, these often have to be cleaned manually, which is time-consuming. If the transport tracks are cleaned on a regular basis with Teclinex One For All, annoying marks may be avoided in advance.

For further information: Tel: 01905 793550 www.ostermann.eu

Simple is more efficient All Kundig Sanders are simple to operate. A machine that is simple to operate means it is easy to use.

If it is easy to use then it is user friendly. If it is user friendly anyone can use the machine correctly.

If used correctly not only are the best results achieved, but using the machine correctly means less mistakes. Less mistakes means better efficiency. Better efficiency means higher productivity. Higher productivity means higher profit and as we all know time is money.

Maybe this is why Kündig-sanders are beloved by those who work with them. Easy to use, they help reduce errors under stress. A Kündig always speaks the language of it’s user – whether it be English, German, French or even Russian.

Just contact Carl from Kündig UK He can tell you everything about those iconic Swiss Kündig sanders: T 0845 833 0565 E sales@kundig.co.uk Unit 4, Falcon Place, Burscough, Lancs L40 8RT

www.kundig.co.uk the Sanding Experts

Boards & Panels

7AGHCDAGIJ'I<ECHBJ;>IJ5FBDJ6<:FGDEHD 5EG!IDJ7FGJ1AGF:IEHJ5$7J/GF=A?IGB The UK market for wood panel products is dominated by the construction industry, which uses all varieties of panel products for structural, aesthetic and fitting-out purposes.

H

owever, the second most important market for panel producers is furniture. The growth of flat-pack DIY products during the latter part of the 20th century created a demand for both particleboard and MDF that continues to grow strongly.

Its consistent and reliable physical characteristics and the ease with which it can be machined also lend MDF to manufacturing and it is used widely in the manufacturing sector for carcassing and framing.

Norbord produced the world’s first MDF (in 1966 at its factory in New York State) and in 1979 its Cowie factory became the first to produce MDF in the UK. Today the company manufactures a full range of MDF products for a variety of applications, including light and standard grades and moisture-resistant versions. Its top-quality grades, Deep Rout and Deep Rout Excel are designed specifically for the production of high-grade furniture and fittings. Its consistent close-grained texture ensures clean edges and surfaces that will take a smooth finish.

While the furniture industry is an important consumer of all types of wood product (including expensive high quality hardwoods) the bulk of its production relies on sheet materials and in particular, products like Norbord’s Caberwood MDF. According to the Wood Panel Products Federation, the UK furniture industry consumes around 28 per cent of all

34

domestically-produced wood panel products, a similar proportion to the total amount of all roundwood products consumed in the UK (the Timber Trades Federation estimates that furniture production accounts for 30% of all imported and domestically produced wood).

The industry is especially important for MDF producers, half of whose total production is consumed by furniture manufacturers. Only 40 per cent of UK MDF goes to the construction industry in stark contrast to particleboard and OSB where construction accounts for 55 per cent and 80 per cent of annual production respectively (source: WPIF).

As a proportion of the UK total, WPIF estimates that MDF accounts for 29% of annual UK consumption of domestically produced panel products (compared to particleboard, 64 per cent, and OSB, 7 per cent).

In 2016, UK MDF production reached 950,000 cu m compared with 320,000 cu m of OSB and 2,310,000 cu m of particleboard. Demand for the product currently exceeds supply and imports remain steady at around 25 per cent. Last year, total UK consumption of MDF reached 1,245,980 cu m.

Demand for MDF is currently growing throughout the UK and Europe. The

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

European Panel Federation reports that MDF production throughout the region grew by 2.7 per cent in 2015 from 11.5 million cu m to 11.8 million cu m.

At the same time, the value of wood furniture production increased 4.4 per cent to €31.2b across the Euro 28 while, in the UK, the market grew by 1.1 per cent.

Norbord is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of engineered wood-based panel products. All products are FSC®certified and used extensively in the construction, DIY and furniture sectors.

Norbord’s brands, SterlingOSB, CaberBoard, CaberWood MDF and ContiBoard are well known and are commonly specified by architects, national housebuilders and specifiers.

For further information: Tel: 01786 812 921 www.norbord.co.uk.

A COMPLETE RANGE OF 3, 4, & 5 AXIS CNC ROUTERS MANUFACTURED TO THE HIGHEST QUALITY FOR PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY

Whatever your requirements Onsrud has a solution ATA ENGINEERING PROCESSES Tel: 01442 264411 Fax 01442 231383 Email sales@ataeng.com www.ataeng.com www.cronsrud.com

Case Study

+059&J$I@C(IGBJ;FDE@ 5E?>CHI 6HDIG?FHHI?DC(CD2 7FG +F-EG=J%GFD>IGBJ FCHIG2 Howard Brothers Joinery is a bespoke sub-contract joinery specialist. The business has an enviable reputation for the manufacture and installation of all aspects of bespoke joinery and associated trades including metalwork, glass, marble, granite and a wide range of technical materials. The company’s work can be seen in many of the leading commercial and domestic buildings in the UK and globally.

H

oward Brothers Joinery has one aim: ‘Building Better Lives’. This mission requires not only the attention to detail for which the business is widely known, but also commitment and a need to ensure they have the very best tools for their work.

Over the last two or three years, the company has been on a journey to lay the foundations for the future growth of the business. As part of the process, Howard Brothers Joinery has evaluated the opportunities afforded by advances in both software and machinery.

“We do a lot of projects in the high-end commercial and residential fit out markets,” explains director, Tim Hedges. He continues, “The work is bespoke and timeframes are always very tight so it is important for us to have the systems in place to cope with the pressures these factors exert on the business.

“Our overall plan is to take advantage of the interconnectivity of our machinery via software, so that we can maximise the efficiencies this brings to our production. To do this effectively we believe that it is important to have machinery from the same manufacturer as this eliminates any potential incompatibility issues.

“We have had HOMAG machinery for around 20 years and it has always performed to a very high standard, both in terms of reliability and quality. Our portfolio from HOMAG now includes a Highflex edge bander, a BHX 200

36

Central side pressure device shortens cycle times by up to 25%

CNC and, our most recent addition, an HPP 300 beam saw which was bought to replace an aging beam saw.”

Bottleneck in production “Our old beam saw from HOMAG UK had done us proud. We bought it back in 1999 and it has certainly been put through its paces in the last 17 years, emerging with flying colours. Technology, however, has moved on, particularly on the software front and we began to experience a bit of a bottleneck in production with the saw not able to keep up with the significantly increased volume of work we now handle.

“The decision was made, therefore, to invest in a new saw and in line with our agreed policy to stay with one machine

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

manufacturer we talked to HOMAG about a replacement. The saw we set out to buy was significantly less specified than the one we ended up buying.

“Charles Smith from HOMAG UK was leading us on the specification of the machine and we were happy with the spec we finalised with him. Having placed the order, another machine then became available at a significantly improved lead time, so we decided to upgrade.

“This model has some additional features that we didn’t think we needed, however, now it’s installed and operational we are really pleased we made the decision to go for the higher specified saw, despite the increased price tag.

Case Study

“Whilst our MagiCut software was able to talk to the old saw, it was limited in its capacity.

We were not able to collate all the cutting parts and it required a lot more user intervention. Whereas with the new HPP 300 and optimisation software, we are able to send batch manufacturing sequences direct from the office down to the new saw. The saw then generates the best cutting plans enabling us to be more efficient in both material usage and time on the saw.”

30% Efficiency gains “Because we had a similar saw before, it wasn’t such a transformational leap for us, so we weren’t expecting a significant gain in throughput. Since we’ve had the HPP 300, however, we’ve been pleasantly surprised at the speed in terms are able to process work through that department.

“This is a consequence of two things: firstly, the machine itself is 10 - 15% quicker than the previous saw. The more significant benefit, however, has come from the software integration that allows us to optimise directly onto the saw. It then orientates the cutting plans and allows us to plan ahead in terms of material delivery to the saw.

“Overall, we believe we have made about a 30% efficiency gain out of this set up. In addition, we have eliminated any downtime that was occurring due to the

‘Building Better Lives’,” concludes Tim Hedges.

aging of the old saw.

“The HOMAG HPP 300 has exceeded our expectations. We knew we were going to get a benefit, but it’s better than we had expected. As a result of these unforeseen productivity gains, we now expect the new saw to pay for itself earlier than we had planned.”

HOMAG – Professional, friendly and efficient “As a company to deal with, we find HOMAG very clear and transparent; we pay a premium to have its equipment, but we can easily justify the extra cost because of the interconnectivity of the machinery and software it offers. We know we can buy cheaper products out there, but we believe HOMAG products are a fair price for what they deliver to our business.

“Charles Smith always bends over backwards to help us, whilst Adele Hunt and the team at head office are always very professional, supportive and help us whenever they can.

“We are very happy relying on HOMAG products to give us the results we want. They are enabling us to follow-through on our promise to deliver solutions right first time, from design to delivery of the finished product and to help us in our commitment to

HPP 300 - Panel dividing saw The HPP 300 beam saw is equipped for a wide range of cutting applications and is ready for networked production. It offers high performance in a compact space and is suitable for producing in batch size 1 as well as in smaller series. For those looking to automate storage and retrieval, the saw is ready for connection to automatic horizontal storage systems.

The HPP 300 has an 80 mm saw blade projection as standard; customers, however, can select 95 mm as an option. The saw is easy to operate, reliable and efficient and comes with an ergonomic table height of 920 mm.

The rugged pressure beam guarantees firstclass cut quality whilst the program fence delivers precision and dimensional accuracy.

Its newly designed saw carriage provides for exceptionally smooth running, high precision and low energy consumption.

If you would like more information or a demonstration of any of the HOMAG beam saws or software including MagiCut, please contact Adele Hunt: Tel: 01332 856424

30% efficiency gains for Howard Bros. with the new HPP 300

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

37

Software

4E.CHIDJ*CBCFHJ9H=J9@:>E?E< ;>IJ %E?!.FHI J0)J9H=GI'2EHJ7AGHCDAGIJ “The combination of Cabinet Vision and Alphacam software is a modern-day chisel.”

T

hose are the words of Michael Cowell, a recently appointed director at Andrew Ryan Furniture. While chisels were state-of-the-art technology for woodworking craftsmen in a bygone era, he says software takes on that role today.

“Everyone uses a laptop or mobile device to do their job now, and the right software is every bit as important a tool as CNC machines. Manufacturers are only as useful as the tools they have, and as we only produce top quality bespoke furniture, Cabinet Vision and Alphacam are vital tools for us.”

Originally focusing on high end kitchens, the company has diversified into full house fit-outs with drawing rooms, studies, libraries, bedrooms and dressing rooms.

Operating out of a prestigious showroom and 25,000 square foot manufacturing plant in Wexford, Ireland, they also have a smaller showroom at Monaco in the South of France.

Working with solid timber including oak and beech, and a variety of veneer boards and chipboards, all components go through Cabinet Vision or Alphacam and are outputted to their range of CNC machines where they are cut and then hand finished.

“It gives us full control of every component, from the start of the process when the raw material comes into the factory, right through to shipping the finished product.”

manufacturing operation, says they began using Cabinet Vision in 2006, shortly before he and his brother Dominic took over running the company from their parents.

And Alphacam was part of the package when they invested in 5-axis routing technology two years later, which he says is critical for the business. “Many opportunities have opened up for us, as 5axis machining gives us the advantage of being able to produce components that our competitors can’t.”

Director Aiden Ryan, who heads up the

38

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

He says it has replaced the old crafts of working with hand routers and planers, both for components and making jigs.

“Everything’s now done in a completely safe environment, and every finished component is exactly as we planned and designed it – absolutely micron perfect.”

Cabinet Vision powers a recently purchased Homag BCM drilling machine; and other CNC machine tools include a Holzma Beam Saw, Homag BMG 611 with 72-head tool changer, and BHX 200.

Software

His role at Andrew Ryan Furniture is to foster scalable, sustainable and healthy growth in the Irish, UK and foreign markets.

“Tools like Cabinet Vision are an immensely important part of that because as well as helping us design and manufacture fast and accurate products, they also provide us with structure that runs through the design, sales and drawing teams.”

And he says their development plans include finding, training and keeping key personnel to work with Cabinet Vision and Alphacam. “Our staff make the products and look after the customers, and we look after our staff by giving them the very best tools available.”

“The machines are interlinked, and we now work with either Cabinet Vision or Alphacam on every piece of timber and board that goes through the workshop, whether it’s a door, drawer box, cabinet, frame, plinth or moulding. Cabinet Vision produces standard parts, with Alphacam being used for complex shapes, especially curves...which probably represents one in four of our kitchen components.”

Seven employees use Cabinet Vision daily, and three work with Alphacam when required. Each project begins with a designer taking a brief from the customer regarding what they are looking for. The brief then goes into Cabinet Vision where the room is drawn by hand or using measurements from an architect’s plan to produce a concept design. “After being thoroughly checked and edited, we present it to the client either onscreen, as a printed drawing, or as a video. The design may need changing several times before it’s ready for manufacture, but that’s so quick and easy to achieve in Cabinet Vision.

Michael Cowell’s recent appointment to head up the technical and commercial growth of the business marks a new phase in the company’s development plans. With a background of scaling and growing companies, he was recruited from Tom Howley Kitchens, which grew substantially from 2006, opening many showrooms across the UK. “A big part of its success story were the systems and software, and Cabinet Vision was the main design tool I used there.”

Concluding, Aiden Ryan says both Cabinet Vision and Alphacam are critical to the company’s future. “They’re the backbone of the whole process of design and manufacturing, giving us time to focus on other things, such as hand finishing.”

For further information: Tel: 01189 756084 Andrew Ryan Furniture: http://andrewryan.ie/ Cabinet Vision: http://www.cabinetvision.com/ Alphacam: http://www.alphacam.com/

“Once the customer approves the design, our drawing team output the NC code for the factory floor using Cabinet Vision’s Screen-To-Machine module, with complex components going through Alphacam.”

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

39

Software

9@:>E?E<J/GF8GE<BJ BJ0H@2 /GFJ1(F@ADCFH ,9 CBJ;-CHJ+IE= 5E?>CHIJ7FG IG?F@J After taking their first steps in 5-axis machining, a high-end, top quality furniture manufacturer quickly realised it was their best way forward, and also invested in a machine with two 5-axis heads, which is the first one of its kind in the UK.

H

aving used eight older CMS 3axis single table and twin table machines for a number of years, ercol Furniture researched how technology could help them react to customers’ requirements quicker.

Roy Graves, who manages operations which support the entire factory, looked specifically at machining and CNC programming, and opted for the Alphacam solution from Vero Software. “Once we’d decided to go down the 5-axis route we knew we’d need a software that could optimise our machine so

Above: The CMS Ares, running on Edgecam programme

about driving the 5-axis a simultaneously, but they s quickly discovered how q easily Alphacam e produced the complex p toolpaths.

“It meant we t saw immediate benefits in s what we were able to w The CMS Pro-Evolution driven by Alphacam machine. The accuracy of driving it into different work planes, and we could meet ever shortening lead times. simulating the full 5- axis cutting cycle was We particularly liked the Alphacam so simple and meant we developed our technology and what we could do with it and processes, improving considerably on the 3how we could manipulate toolpaths axis methods we were using previously.” effectively with it.”

He says that after setting up a powerful CMS Ares machine, there was “a lot of trepidation”

40

ercol was founded in 1920, originally based in High Wycombe, before moving to the

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

current 160,000 square-foot, purpose-built factory and showroom in nearby Princes Risborough in 2002. The ercol brand of high quality, solid hardwood products includes tables, chairs, cabinets and upholstered furniture for dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms and home offices, and is sold at outlets such as Furniture Village, Barker & Stonehouse and independent retailers.

Alphacam produces their parts to a very high tolerance, ensuring perfect aesthetics and ease of assembly. “It’s extremely important to be able to guarantee the correct location of individual sticks, legs, backrests and rails, so they meet other components at the right place and at the right angle.”

Software

and projecting the edges to the work plane.

“I use work planes regularly for the different sides of the part – and machining styles are also useful to help me work quicker and use similar toolpaths and styles, particularly for mortice and tenon joints.”

Kieran Gunn describes the software as “extremely flexible,” allowing different working style for individuals. “There are many ways of achieving the same result. I might work on a part in a certain way, and someone else may use a different method to achieve it.”

An AC Screen Shot

Following their success with the Ares, they have now invested in a CMS Pro Evolution machine with two 5-axis heads – the first one of its kind in the UK. “It’s based on a rail module system which takes the components into the machining centre, carries out the first part of the machining, and then exchanges them on the rail displaying the other side for the machining to continue. It’s a fully automated process, and controlled through Alphacam.”

Working largely with Ash and Oak, along with smaller quantities of Beech and Walnut around 90 per cent of their components are now programmed with Alphacam for cutting on the CNC machine tools. “We manufacture wholly to customer orders. In an average week we’ll produce around 300 orders, each consisting of a number of products – and many of those separate products will comprise between ten and 25 individual components. So we’re machining

a total of around 2,500 parts a week.”

Which he says would be impossible without Alphacam. “It not only saves up to 30% on time, but because of its accuracy we’re machining everything correctly first time every time. It’s also helped reduce waste, and provides faster set-ups.”

For CNC Programmer Kieran Gunn, the Pro Evolution led to a major change in his job role. “I feel really privileged, as I’ve been given responsibility to create all the parts that go on it. I find it exciting that I’m writing programs for the first machine of its kind in the country. Previously, I was a setter, just loading and operating the 3-axis machines.

But now, I’ve been trained in programming with Alphacam and I have much more input in creating the individual pieces that are assembled together to make the finished furniture.”

The components are designed in SolidWorks, and once he has imported the CAD file into Alphacam he creates a bounding box so that he knows the full dimensions of the part. “I add extra stock so I know the size of the blank pieces of rail I’m going to put into the machine. Then I reposition the model and assign the material. After that, I put it into reference points in Alphacam where it’ll be loaded into the machine.”

ercol components designed by Alphacam

A point echoed by Kevin Dover, who programs the CMS Ares, and assists on the Pro Evolution. He, too, was a machine setter before ercol Furniture began their 5-axis journey with Alphacam and the Ares in 2015. Now he mainly programs seat frames, along with a number of components from the bending shop, such as arms and back rails for stacking chairs, which he says require more complex programs. He imports the SolidWorks file into Alphacam, uses the feature extraction function to finalise geometry parameters, and assigns tools before outputting the post.

“Whether I’m programming for the Ares or the Pro Evolution, Alphacam’s versatility means it communicates successfully with different types of machines.”

Roy Graves concludes: “Using Alphacam with the Ares and Pro Evolution gives us much faster cycle times. We can now start to look at reducing our batch sizes, and get down to single batch production. We’re typically looking to use the improved machining process to change our production methods further downstream on the shop floor. That will enable us to load the factory more often, meaning we can respond quicker, improving our customer turnaround times even more.”

For further information: Tel: 01189 756084 ercol Furniture: www.ercol.com Alphacam: www.alphacam.com

He finds Alphacam’s solid feature extraction function especially useful for taking a face

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

41

Software

&IDJ;>I /C?DAGIJ CD> 4E.CHIDJ*CBCFH The latest release of Cabinet Vision – Vero Software’s industry-leading manufacturing solution for woodworkers – includes a powerful new photo rendering engine, geared specifically towards the design market.

I

t provides a massive enhancement on the rendering capabilities in previous versions, and now gives designers almost photo-like images which manufacturers can use as a sales tool to show their own customers exactly what the products will look like in situ.

Kitchens

As well as the high-end photo rendering engine, which gives results comparable to mainstream, generic design packages, Cabinet Vision Version 11 also incorporates a host of other design features.

Cabinet Vision’s UK Northern Sales Manager Harry Hunter says the simplified lighting function means that natural-looking light for the images can be created quickly and easily.

“Also, any object can now be selected and modified in the 3D view. Designers simply click on a cabinet and change the finish type, material and texture just on that one item from any 3D view. This is all done at the job level, so you don’t have to come out of job level – it’s all done specifically for the one job.

“And major improvements to the Auto-Fill system save considerable time, by allowing

the user to automatically fill a room with cabinets easily and intelligently, through a single click.”

Harry Hunter says following Cabinet Vision’s long-term recognition as the market leader in cabinetry manufacturing software – driving almost all CNC machines, producing cutlists and pricing – developers wanted to provide one complete package from the initial design stage, right through to the product coming off the CNC machine tool.

Home Office

42

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

“Previously, users would draw up rooms and layouts in a generic design package, which then had to be transferred manually into Cabinet Vision. As with any manual process, this led to a risk of human error. Now, with Cabinet Vision’s new high-end photo rendering capabilities, and additional designled features, they can manage every step of the design and manufacturing process without having to transfer data between systems, which is faster and more accurate.”

And with the software being a specialist tool dedicated to cabinet making, he says it offers complete freedom in designing all aspects of cabinets and cabinetry items. “Drawing offices can design whatever they want, render it, produce a cut list and price list, or send it straight through to the CNC machine. It’s now a complete solution, providing a seamless transition from state-of-the-art design to manufacturing.”

For further information: Tel: 01189 756084 www.cabinetvision.com

Software

9;60 9 9//'1 ;6413+6/J 11 4EG(CH8J0AD 9J4EGIIGJ6H ;>IJ FF=-FG!J6H=ABDG2

T

he National Apprenticeship Week, Week was held on 5-9 March and The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) underpins its support and offers an inside track on why apprenticeships work within the woodworking industry and as a result why this sector has one of the highest ratios of apprentices in the economy.

The woodworking industry is extremely diverse, with many occupations, some sitebased, others in a workshop, from design, through to production and ultimately construction and, like every business, has the day-to-day roles such as management, accounts, marketing and sales. There are numerous careers to be forged within this exciting and uber sustainable industry and, with a multitude of benefits to both new recruits and employers, one of the best ways to get started is via an apprenticeship.

Apprentice Comes Full Circle Luke Parry, joinery production manager at Edmont, shares his experiences from starting his career through an apprenticeship scheme to then progressing all the way through and now becoming the one taking on and managing apprentices of his own: After finishing his A levels, Luke went on to university to study a course based loosely on subjects in which he had been gaining good grades but with no real passion. It soon became apparent that university life was not for him and so he took the decision to leave and start looking for work or training with the view to starting a career.

“I knew very little about carpentry or joinery but it was something I had enjoyed during school and with my grandfather. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do but as a 20-yearold I knew whatever it was I wanted to try and build a career of it,” said Luke.

Luke visited his local college who advised him that an apprenticeship could be the way forward. There was funding available and all he would need to do was find an employer willing to take him on.

“I rang everyone in the phone book

Edmont team – L-R Luck Parry joinery production manager, Garry Collins bench joiner & apprentice mentor and Chris Tweksbury, apprentice

trying to get an apprenticeship and eventually found a placement with the help of the CITB,” Luke continued.

Starting his placement at a small joinery firm, Luke soon completed his advanced level 3 apprenticeship in bench joinery where he gained a wealth of knowledge and felt like he had found his vocation.

“I have never looked back from that first foot in the door,” commented Luke. Luke’s career progressed and he moved to a larger firm, Oakwrights, to a more office based role as an estimator. He continued to progress through the ranks, undertaking further training and achieving a BTEC in Construction and a HNC in Construction in a Built Environment, until eventually becoming a production manager.

Eleven years down the line and Luke is joinery production manager in a large joinery department at Edmont and is now taking on apprentices of his own.

Luke concluded: “I really enjoy my new role and the different challenges it brings.

Having been through the process myself gives me a real understanding of what the new apprentices are going through and really helps me to push them to ensure that they and us as an employer get the most from the opportunity.

“It’s a continual learning curve but I feel very proud to see them do well and kick start their careers. There is such a vast

array of roles available within the woodworking industry and it’s really only through apprenticeships that people learn about the opportunities available – whether it’s skilled positions such as bench joiners, machinists and carpenters or more office based roles such as estimators, buyers, CAD setting out or contract managers.

Starting an apprenticeship opens many doors and allows people to make a fully informed decision about what they want to do with their career.”

Iain McIlwee, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation said: “Apprenticeships are fundamental to our sector and I don’t see this changing; indeed, the new funding routes open fresh opportunities for career switching and older apprentices. The woodworking sector is a key part of our heritage, but also a vital part of our future as people increasingly look to integrate renewable, sustainable and healthy materials into their designs.

With technology advancing, both in the material, design capability and in the workshop, it is an exciting time to be working in the wood sector.

For more information about how get started on an apprenticeship scheme in the woodworking industry or to find out how to take on an apprentice visit: www.wowimadethat.co.uk

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

43

Installation

H=C8 J9J3EH=IG 7FGJ1(IG2J3IEBFH

W

hatever your sanding needs, Kündig has a sander to meet them from its range of widebelt sanders and edge sanders, including its bespoke division, Kündig Technic. Technic machines created so far include top/bottom sanding systems with two to six units; extra large machines for the panel industry, with special machines for plywood and sanders with cutterheads; and machines for working with very thin material in the laminate industry. If you have a requirement that you feel cannot be met by a standard machine, have a word with Kündig: the solution may be closer than you think. Here are just some of the companies who have purchased Kündig sanders in recent years: Michael Northcroft is a British furniture designer and maker with an international reputation for excellence. Founded by managing director, Michael Northcroft, in 1982, the company purchased a Kündig Brilliant-2 1600 REd sander in 2016 from Kündig Ltd’s authorised agent, A12 Machinery of Essex.

Michael says: ““The Kündig is an expensive beast, but you do get a high quality job out of it. We make very high quality furniture. Our client base includes many international stars, performers, sports people around the world so we need high quality sanding. The furniture is tailored to their homes and the quality has to be really good. “We use a lot of exotic veneers and woods in our furniture. The Kündig minimises ripples and defects in high class lacquers.

“We also sand our solid wood components on it. A multitude of solid wood components go into our furniture. The Kündig is highly accurate: you get the dimension out that you set the machine to. There is no burning, you get a very clear finish and it is wonderfully trouble free.

“It is a really good machine, I am really pleased with it.“ Roland Tagg and Bob Underwood of TAGG Furniture, established in 1979, purchased a Premium-2 1350 RE for sanding both solid wood and veneered boards, as well as a Uniq-S edge sander for the sanding of edges to MDF panels.

44

TAGG furniture already had a wide belt sander which had served the company faithfully for many years, but it was reaching the end of its useful life. And once the decision had been made to replace the widebelt sander, it was natural for Roland to buy the edge sander at the same time. Kündig Ltd was approached because “After a lot of research and talking to friends and fellow furniture makers Kündig sanders came out top and they were very highly rated. That is a good advertisement!” Roland said.

He continues, “It is a very compact machine and we are very tight for space, so not having a lot of extra bits stuck on the side was very useful. The old machine had a 1,100 mm capacity; this one has a 1,350 mm capacity with a smaller footprint. “The quality of the finish is really, really good. Before we didn’t put veneered panels through the old machine in case it sanded through the veneer. “It gets used a lot as we are manufacturing different items all the time. We have lots of different people using the machine on various projects and because of the simplicity of use any of our workforce can go up to it and use it after just 10 minutes of training without worrying about messing it up, and will get a good result.” deVOL purchased a Kündig Premium-3 1100 RRP sander, delivered and commissioned in September 2015. Managing director, Robin McLellan, added: “In the search for a new sander, we worked through Markfield Woodworking Machinery (MWM), with whom we have a long standing relationship. We have bought a lot of machinery from them in the past, and they introduced us to Kündig Ltd and to Carl O’Meara.”

Carl went with Robin and Gavin Cooper of MWM to Wreak Valley Craftsman to see a Premium-2 1100 RE with vacuum belt in action, carrying out various demonstrations using different grit configurations on a selection of kitchen doors and components Robin had brought for testing purposes.

Robin says, “We tried a variety of machines, and the Kündig sander was the one we had the best experience with finishing wise. We were aware of their reputation, and wanted to get the best machine on the market.

The advantages of the Kündig were all very

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

deVOL of Leicestershire invested in a Kündig Premium-3 1100 RRP sander, delivered and commissioned in September 2015

Michael Northcroft purchased a Kündig Brilliant-2 1600 REd sander

TAGG Furniture purchased a Premium-2 1350 for sanding both solid wood and veneered boards, as well as a Uniq-S edge sander for the sanding of edges to MDF panels

subtle things, and that is often the case with fine finishing. These subtleties become quite critical in creating a finish that is spot on compared to one that is 99% there. We just wanted to make sure we got the belt and braces right.” When asked if he would recommend the Kündig sander, Robin replied, “Yes, it is lovely.”

For further information: Tel: 0845 833 0565 Email: sales@kundig.co.uk www.kundig.co.uk

Profile

3>EG:IHCH8J7FGJ5ADAE@J3A??IBB

A

t the GrindTec 2018 international trade fair in Augsburg VOLLMER showcased its current innovations, including the new grinding machine CHX 840 for machining tooth faces and the top of circular saw blades in a single clamping process. The Swabian sharpening specialist also presented variants of the tool grinding machine VGrind 360 for manufacturing carbide tools as well as the VPulse 500 wire erosion machine and the QXD 250 eroding machine for the machining of diamond tools.

HW circular saws: Shortening the setup time VOLLMER introduced its new development for the machining of circular saws. The grinding machine CHX 840 sharpens carbide-tipped circular saw blades with a diameter up to 840mm. Thanks to a double grinding wheel, the machining of tooth face and top is effected in a single clamping process. This ensures a significant reduction in setup time. In addition, the machine is adapted to the individual needs of the customer by different automation levels, thus ensuring further time savings.

One option is the automatic setup procedure, which consists of saw insertion, diameter detection and acoustic sensor for touching. Automatic loading can be added, whereby an autonomy time of up to 7 hours is possible.

Carbide tools: Sharpening around the clock Another technology highlight at the trade fair was the grinding machine VGrind 360, which VOLLMER designed for the development of carbide tools such as drills, milling cutters or reamers. The machine is available in two versions: One with two vertical spindles for grinding wheel packages, and the other with one grinding wheel spindle and one highfrequency spindle (HF spindle) plus an automatic tool changer. The high-

frequency spindle allows the grinding of special pocket seats for PCD plates). One of VOLLMER's latest solutions, the HC 4, is a compact machine that comprises a chain magazine with 39 spaces for standardised HSK 63-A (hollow shank tapers) or it can also optionally hold up to 158 shank workpieces.

their sharpening processes. With the HC 5 pallet circulation magazine, the erosion machine can be expanded by up to 28 workpiece positions. VOLLMER also presented new software updates and available software options to increase process reliability, precision and flexibility.

Circular saws: Sharpening around the For the first time VOLLMER showed an clock optional roughing unit for the VGrind 360 in In the area of circular saw machining, Augsburg. It enables the automatic visitors obtained information from opening of the abrasive coating, i.e. the VOLLMER on another four innovative removal of grinding machines: The CC 355 residues on the production line for complete diamond-tipped sharpening of circular grinding wheel. This saws for cutting wood– process helps maintain including all tooth faces, the sharpness of the tooth tops and side grinding wheel for angles in a single longer. It is now also working cycle. With the possible to VOLLMER CHD 270, the automatically change the entire grinding unit is robustly grinding wheel sets and mounted on a central main their coolant nozzles on structure, forming a compact The QXD Disc erosion the VGrind 360. Thanks to machine for PCD tipped tools assembly. This monoblock this option for both construction ensures the spindles, tool manufacturers can reduce precise and smooth sharpening process the setup times and use the VGrind 360 for carbide tipped circular saw blades. even more efficiently for production.

Together with an ND 230 handling system and corresponding loading carriage for automatic loading, the machine can Diamond tools: Precise machining operate around the clock. VOLLMER VOLLMER's faithful QWD series is now presented the sharpening machines for the making way for the new VPulse 500 wire carbide-tipped circular saws CHP 840 and erosion machine for the machining of PCD CHF 840 with a multifunction hand-wheel tools. With a new erosion generator and for intuitive machine operation. advanced technology, it can produce large batches of high-quality PCD tools. Modern VOLLMER subsidiary Loroch, was also machine kinematics ensure high profile represented at GrindTec. Loroch presented accuracy in both production and its product portfolio of automatic saw blade maintenance. With the VPulse 500 sharpening machines – including the band operating concept, the touch-screen allows saw sharpening machine CNBS 100 as you to easily programme and control the well as the CNC-controlled sharpening tool for quick, error-free work. machine PowerStar 850.

The QXD 250 disc erosion machine can also be used to precisely machine a variety For further information: Tel: 0115 949 1040 of PCD tools. Added programme Email: admin-uk@vollmer-group.com functionality means that tool manufacturers www.vollmer-group.com can use the current QXD 250 to speed up PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

45

Dust Extraction

$43 7C@DIGJ :8GE=IJ7FG $E(C=J G A>EGD Dust Control Systems Ltd have supplied and installed a new externally-sited dust extraction filter unit for longstanding customer David Urquhart Joiners.

L

ocated on the north facing coast of Aberdeenshire, just a couple of miles to the west of Portsoy and opposite Glenglassaugh Distillery, the company specialises in the manufacture of custommade doorsets, for both internal and external application, and bespoke or standard specification staircases.

Established almost 30 years ago, the business continues to be managed by owner David Urquhart, along with his son Wullie, and employs a skilled team of joiners and installers for projects ranging from residential work to complete commercial fit-outs.

Back in 2005, Dust Control Systems were commissioned to supply and install a complete dust extraction system at the workshop and then later, in 2009, DCS engineers returned to retro-fit energysaving control equipment to the system.

Melvyn Bathgate, sales director at Dust Control Systems, commented: “It’s always a pleasure to be invited to return to a customer’s premises to re-configure or update an existing dust extraction system; it’s generally a sign that our customer’s business is doing well, but it’s always an affirmation that we are doing our job right.”

To cope with increasing levels of production, David Urquhart commissioned DCS to install a new highefficiency filter unit, along with a replacement for one of the 3 existing fan units. The new 37kW direct drive fan replaces a 15kW unit, is inverter controlled, and provides an extraction volume of 21,350m3/hr – bringing the system’s total extraction capacity to

46

Another beautifully finished bespoke staircase ready for dispatch from David Urquhart Joiners.

almost 50,000m3/hr. Additional autodampers have been fitted to machines in the factory and, as machines come on and off-line, sensors detect the changing extraction requirement and the main fan speed is regulated to match demand – optimising extraction and minimising energy consumption.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

The new NFKZ3000 modular chain filter unit has reverse air regeneration for cleaning the patented antistatic Superbag filter media, and pressure-free disposal of collected waste is achieved via a rotary valve. A waste transfer fan then delivers the waste material through a closed-loop system into an adjacent storage silo and, in

Dust Extraction

The DCS system extracts dust and woodwaste from a wide range of machinery including two CNC machines.

the colder months, warm air can be returned from the filter unit to the factory.

The return air system, controlled by a manually-operated summer/winter gate,

also includes a fire damper with fusible link and micro-switch.

“Another safety feature that DCS

incorporated into the extraction system at David Urquhart’s are the CARZ explosion isolation valves which, in line with current ATEX recommendations, are installed in the ductwork between the fans’ outlets and the filter unit,” explained Melvyn Bathgate.

If an explosion does occur, the isolation valves are designed to prevent the effects of a pressure wave and flames from travelling upstream in the ductwork, and back into the factory.

In conclusion, Mr Urquhart added: “Despite the relatively remote location of our factory, we are always impressed with the sales and service response, and the efficient project management provided by Melvyn and the team at DCS – they dismantled the old filter unit on a Friday, installed the new filter in its place over the weekend, and commissioned the system on the Monday.”

For further information: Tel: 0800 040 7116 www.DCSlimited.co.uk

The NFKZ3000 5+1HJLR modular filter unit installed by Dust Control Systems Ltd at David Urquhart Joiners.

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

47

Wood Waste

4E.CHID 5E!IGJ6H(IBDBJ6H +IEDIGJ

A

Midlands cabinet maker has purchased a wood waste heater from Wood Waste Technology to save money on its operating costs.

AS Cabinets in Wolverhampton, a family business manufacturing bespoke cabinets for public and trade wanted to purchase a wood waste heater to utilise the waste wood generated daily to reduce expenditure on heating and waste disposal.

Accounts Manager, Helen Humphries explains: “We’ve wanted to purchase a wood waste heater for a while, as there’s no heating in the factory so it’s extremely cold in winter. The cold doesn’t just affect our 6 employees, it also affect our machines, especially those that bond the glue, as the cold temperature sometimes makes the glue too hard to use. We were also spending around £250 a week on skips to dispose of our wood offcuts – so a

wood ood waste aste heater was as the obvious solution to both these problems.”

Once a decision was made to purchase, Helen started researching wood waste heaters on the internet to find the best one for the company’s 3000 sq.ft premises. Having read excellent reviews regarding the heaters manufactured in the UK by Wood Waste Technology, the company requested a site survey and quote, and purchased h da WT5 towards the end of 2017.

Helen continues: “We’re delighted with our purchase. We definitely made the right product choice from the right supplier.

Around 90% of our waste goes into the wood waste heater, so we’re saving a fortune on skip costs. The heater keeps the

workshop w orkshop nice and warm arm in tthe winter, and we purchased a summer heat p dump so we can continue d tto burn our wood in the ssummer without generating ffurther heat. It’s one of the best business investments b we’ve ever made.“ w Wood Waste Technology iis the UK official distributor ffor Gross Apparatebau GmbH, a German G manufacturer of m dependable, precision d engineered and briquetters, i d shredders h available in various size and specifications to suit all business applications.

For further information: Tel: 01785 250400 www.woodwastetechnology.com www.grossuk.co.uk

F O R A C L E A N E R E N V I R O N M E N TA L F U T U R E At Dust Pollution Systems, we have been busy systemizing spot extraction in the industrial working environments. Our systems cover all aspects and working methods from the small, mobile dust extractors to large turnkey stationary industrial installations.

Design, Manufacture, Installation Large hopper filters, fans, cyclones Small bag filters, rigid ductwork, flexible hose LEV COSHH testing, assessment, service EWI-THERM Wood burning stoves Fast nationwide service

The

Complete

for a

for a

Complete

System

Clean

Working

Environment

Clean

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALISTS Dust Pollution Systems Limited Unit 1 & 2, Premacto Works, Queensmead Road, Loudwater, High Wycombe, Bucks. HP10 9XA Telephone: 01494 462333 Fax: 01494 463777

www.dustpollution.co.uk 48

PANEL & JOINERY PRODUCTION – MARCH/APRIL 2018

1%36;1 $6'14;0' "# Panel & Joinery Production lists the major manufacturers and suppliers to the UK woodworking industry under easy-to-find product headings. If you think that your company should be included in this list, please contact us immediately.

Your website can be seen by over 5,000 readers of Panel & Joinery Production magazine in the UK & Ireland and worldwide on our website: www.p-j-production.com

435.:21;" 0496204:; 62269,1!;

39:/;'3=1;"'/6769,; 3 /:!

* *;&35)69:4#

'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

07/:#; <</; 4:11=<4.; ; 9,69::469,;*<8;(27 ===8707/:# 2<</85<80.

$6-/3 ===873/2<91=37.6985< 4:73 ===873/2<91=37.6985<'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

*4<11502269,;'#12:-1 '3/ 37<4 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

012;*<924</;'#12:-1

%/2:97<4 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

&:343 ; *;(27 ===80.+39:/13=185<80.

39:/;'3=1;" :42653/! /5<9 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

'246: 6, ===82-+3429:41)6+85<80.

39:/; 397/69,

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#; 11: ;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.

*37:1;(27 ===8537:1/2785<80.

'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

<<7 312:;*<924</; 9,69::469,;(27 ===8= = 585<80.

<5.:2; <02:41

<4.+/35:;'3 :2#;&:5)39653/;':4 65:1 ===8=<4.+/35:-85<80.

7,: 397:41

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#; 11: ;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80. *:)613 ===873/2<91=37.6985<'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

6961)69,

% %; 9,69::469,; 4<5:11:1 ===8323:9,85<-

4:11:1

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.

<=:4; <</1 * ;" $!;(27 ===8570./2785<80.

<02:41;"* *!

% %; 9,69::469,; 4<5:11:1 ===8323:9,85<-

%;*<-+<9:921 ===8 # 385<80.

% ; 92:49326<93/ ===83 # 85<80.

&64.3; $;(27 ===8-64.385<- 0.

$6-/3 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

347=34:;" 697<=1; ; <<41!

4:73 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

%;*<-+<9:921 ===8 # 385<80.

':3/5<;'5<2/397 ===81:3/5< 15<2/39785<80.

$625):9 ; :74<<-; <<41 %;*<-+<9:921 ===8 # 385<80.

&35)6969,;*:924:1;"* *! $6-/3 ===873/2<91=37.6985< 4:73 ===873/2<91=37.6985<'*&; 4<0+;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

& *; 39:/; 4<70521 *; 9701246:1;(27 ===8 56/2785<80.

39:/;'3=1;" :3-!

'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

<02:41;"* *; ; ;% 61! % %; 9,69::469,; 4<5:11:1 ===8323:9,85<-

;FJ.FF!J2FAGJIHDG2 ;I@ 7E J " "J J # I,<EC@ J IGHCI :, ,:GF=A?DCFH ?F<

'</67;'04 35:; 4<5:1169, 06+-:92 * ;" $!;(27 ===8570./2785<80.

'< 2=34:

%/+)3*3===83/+)353-85<-

'+43#; 6961)69,; 06+-:92 ; 97012463/; 6961)69, ===862=6 :04<85<-

<</69,

% %; 9,69::469,; 4<5:11 ===8323:9,85<(:62 ; <</69,; $ )22+ 1)<+0.8/:62 8<4, <</2:5;(27 ===82<</2:585<80.

)4<0,) ::7; 46//1 '*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

:9::4;*02269,; ;'39769, 06+-:92 * ;" $!;(27 ===8570./2785<80.

:9::469,; 06+-:92

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#; 11: ;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.

67:; :/2;'397:41 ; </61):41; 0 69,;&35)69:1 * ;" $!;(27 ===8570./2785<80.

<<7=<4.69,;&35)69:4# 6:11:; 4<0+; $; ===8 6:11:85<80.

3/2<91; 37.69 ===873/2<91=37.6985< :/7:4 4<0+; $; ===8 :/7:4 ,4<0+85<80.

4:73 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

</ :4 ===8)</ ):485<-

&%$%;&35)69:4#; $;(27 ===8-3.385<-

:696,; 4<0+; $ ===8=:696,85<-

<02:4;*022:41

% %; 9,69::469,; 4<5:11:1 ===8323:9,85<-

'397:41;"'+::7!

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.

'397:41;" 67:; :/2! <:4:;&35)69: 3 46:.;

===8 <:4:89/

%//=<<7;&35)69:4#; 11: ;(27;"695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.

$0976,;(27 ===8.0976,85<80.

'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

'*&; 4<0+; $;(27 ===815-,4<0+ 0.85<-

'5)://69,; $;(27 ===815)://69,85<80.

37.69 ===873/2<91=37.6985<-

<<7=<4.69,; <</69,; ;&35)69:4#;(27 ===8=37.69-35)69:4#85<-

<<7=<4.69,;&35)69:4#; " :=; ; 1:7! %//=<<7;&35)69:4#; 11: ;(27 "695; 92:4=<<7! ===8692:4=<<785<80.; 3/2<91; 37.69 ===873/2<91=37.6985< *; &:343 ===80.=<<7=<4.69,-35)69:4#85<80.

<<7; 04969,; 06+-:92 <<7 312:;*<924</; 9,69::469,;(27 ===8= = 585<80.

K086 PW Natural Rockford Hickory

K104 SL Dark Lunar Stone

K098 SU Ceramic Red

INSPIRATION COMES NATURALLY KRONODESIGN® TRENDS 18/19: ORGANIC Inspired by nature, beautiful woodgrains, shades of earth, green and rust bring the Organic theme to life. Just one of the key trends originating from Kronodesign’s inspirational new Global Collection of Melamine Faced Boards, Worktops and Laminates. Organic, be naturally inspired by a world of design possibilities.

For more information, marketing materials or to order samples, please visit: www.kronospan-express.com Main image: K085 PW Light Rockford Hickory, K098 SU Ceramic Red, K086 PW Natural Rockford Hickory, 9561 BS Oxide Green.

Worktops: K103 SL Light Lunar Stone, K104 SL Dark Lunar Stone.