{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Taking tradition to high-tech precision","description":" Established in 1967 by Reginald Newnham and now under third-generation family leadership, Newnham Engineering Limited has undergone a remarkable transformation from traditional machining to cutting-edge 5-axis manufacturing. Through investments in DMG MORI machine tools, this West Sussex-based company has acquired a DMU 75 monoBLOCK, DMU 100 FD duoBLOCK, and a CMX 70 U. Operating from their modern facility on Lancing Business Park, Newnham serves demanding sectors including oil and gas, surveillance, F1, and specialised industrial applications. What distinguishes them in today\u2019s competitive landscape is their commitment to \u2018machining excellence\u2019, backed by technology investments that have fundamentally reshaped their capabilities and market positioning. The Technology Foundation The DMU 75 monoBLOCK serves as the cornerstone of Newnham\u2019s 5-axis capabilities. This machine handles workpieces up to 840mm in diameter, 500mm in height, and 600kg. Its 20,000rpm spindle capability and monoBLOCK construction provide the precision and versatility essential for complex aluminium components that dominate Newnham\u2019s production. \u201cIt was quite a smooth transition into our latest 5-axis machine, the Monoblock 75,\u201d Lawrence Newnham explains. \u201cLike all the pain we come through with learning how to use the new CAM system, how to use full 5-axis, how to use zero pointing, and using all of that efficiently as well. Going onto the Monoblock 75 it was so smooth.\u201d The DMU 100 FD duoBLOCK is capacity expansion with the ability to handle workpieces weighing up to 2,200kg. This 4th generation duoBLOCK machine delivers 30% more precision, performance and efficiency compared to previous generations through FEM-optimised structure and enhanced components. The dramatic capabilities become evident when Lawrence describes processing large aluminium billets: \u201cCurrently, the part on the machine is one ton. We\u2019ll shy of that, and it finishes up about 250kg. So, a 75% material reduction there. We can fill a bin up in probably 45 minutes \u2013 that\u2019s how quickly we can remove material.\u201d Completing the trio, the CMX 70 U brings 5-axis precision to smaller applications with its C-frame design and mineral cast bed construction. The machine features 750 by 600 by 520mm travels, handles components up to 350kg, and operates with a 12,000rpm spindle delivering 13kW power and 83Nm torque. Business Transformation Through Strategic Partnership Newnham\u2019s evolution illustrates the challenge many manufacturers face transitioning from indexed 5-axis machining (3+2) to full simultaneous 5-axis operations. \u201cWe started with three plus two, and then we took this big jump to a DMG MORI DMU 100 FD duoBLOCK, it\u2019s a hell of a machine,\u201d Lawrence noted. This technological leap required significant investment in CAM programming expertise, and setup procedures. However, the learning curve ultimately positioned Newnham with capabilities that differentiate it from competitors. Phil Newnham reflected on the transformation: \u201cThe components we do these days are night and day in technology compared with what we used to do. It\u2019s just really exciting.\u201d The partnership with DMG MORI extends beyond equipment supply to comprehensive support. Philip Clapp from DMG MORI described the collaborative approach: \u201cLawrence and Phil turned to me one day and said, \u2018can you come and see us?\u2019 We\u2019ve got an absolutely great job, a big part, and we want your help and your partnership to develop the process and make sure we get the right machine for this customer.\u201d This partnership model encompasses application engineering to match machine specifications with customer requirements, process development for optimising cutting parameters and tooling strategies, comprehensive training ensuring operators maximise machine capabilities, and technology road mapping for future investments aligned with market evolution. The DMG MORI investments have fundamentally expanded Newnham\u2019s addressable market and strengthened customer relationships. Perhaps most significantly, the technology has enabled them to solve previously intractable manufacturing challenges. \u201cWe\u2019ve got this customer up the road to us that has had these large components made throughout the world, and they\u2019ve never been made right,\u201d Lawrence explained. \u201cSo, we ended up getting this DMG MORI machine, and now we have the capability to make the parts, and to make them correctly to the customer specification.\u201d The company now confidently supplies oil and gas applications requiring complex valve bodies and pressure vessel components with tight tolerances, surveillance systems needing precision housings and mounting systems, Formula 1 projects where lightweight aluminium components must meet exacting standards, and specialised industrial equipment including high-precision parts for milking machines. Technical Excellence and Advanced Features The three machines provide comprehensive capabilities through advanced technical features such as high-pressure cooling systems that are crucial for machining aluminium components, improving chip evacuation, extending tool life, and maintaining dimensional accuracy during extended cycles. The larger machines utilise HSK 100 tooling systems, providing superior rigidity and repeatability compared to traditional tapered spindles. A Model for Manufacturing Evolution Newnham Engineering\u2019s transformation demonstrates how manufacturers can navigate the transition to advanced manufacturing through strategic technology. The partnership between Newnham and DMG MORI illustrates that success in today\u2019s competitive manufacturing environment requires more than advanced equipment. From a family business founded to a technology-enabled precision manufacturer serving Formula 1 and other demanding industries, Newnham\u2019s journey provides a roadmap for manufacturers seeking to advance their capabilities in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.   ","author_name":"MTD Audiobook","author_url":"https:\/\/mtdcnc.com\/magazine","html":"