Precision engineering firm triples production with high-tech machine
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17 December 2024 – Specialist manufacturing company NE Engineering in Norfolk has tripled its production since March 2023 after acquiring a high-tech turning machine. The business moved up through the gears, going from an eight-hour to a 24-hour operating and production process thanks to its new acquisition. Since last year, it has continued to grow and new machinery is coming into their new unit.
Based at Rackheath Industrial Estate, near Norwich, the business has risen to the ‘premier’ league where it can compete with Far East companies, and to top it all off it won a blue-chip client.
NE Engineering produces components and assemblies, which range from simple to innovative and technically complex solutions for renewable energy, EV renewable development, telecommunications, aerospace, oil and gas, and the automotive industry. It specialises in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining which is a manufacturing process during which pre-programmed computer software dictates the movement of factory tools and machinery. The firm also thrives because of its quality customer service, and lean manufacturing principles around reducing waste, increasing efficiency and driving down costs.
The business bought the high-spec turning centre with a £50,000 grant from the Business Transition to Net Zero programme. The ‘Ferrari’ among these machines will help cut costs, achieve diversification and deliver low carbon features.
Commercial Director Daniel Clements says: “This opens doors to new customers. We have already acquired a blue-chip client in the oil & gas industry which operates in the hydrogen sector. This turning machine works differently to our other plants. It has more tools, and clever software and dynamics, such as regulating the temperature. For example, when heat rises, accuracy can be impaired, but this machine cools down and then continues. We can now compete with the Far East in terms of cost.
“We’ve already recommended the grant to three other businesses, advertised it and have details on the website. It has been a massive benefit to our business.”
Business Transition to Net Zero Grant is aimed at businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk with ambitions to reduce their carbon footprint and increase productivity.
Read more about the business’ success story.
Grants between £25k and £100k are available, with a maximum intervention rate of 20% of the cost of the development. To be awarded the minimum of £25k, you must show total project costs of at least £125k. To apply, contact us.