Hone-All Precision Ltd

In an economic landscape that has experienced considerable volatility in recent years due to the impact of Brexit and the global pandemic, manufacturing companies face numerous challenges in optimising their operations to maximise profitability. A key factor that influences manufacturing success is effective supply chain management: the ability to efficiently coordinate and integrate different elements within the supply chain which can have a profound influence on a company's performance, cost structure, and success.

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In this article, we’ll discuss the impact of effective manufacturing supply chain management and why optimising processes is crucial to gain a competitive advantage.

Improved Efficiency

Improved efficiency is one of the main benefits of effective supply chain management in manufacturing. By streamlining manufacturing processes and ensuring smooth coordination of activities, business can achieve higher levels of productivity. Optimised inventory management, accurate demand forecasting, and efficient shipping and logistics systems are integral components of a well-managed supply chain. These factors combine to reduce lead times, eradicate production bottlenecks, and enhance overall efficiency.

Better Collaboration

Effective supply chain management necessitates close collaboration between customers, suppliers, distributors, and other partners. By establishing strong relationships and maintaining open lines of communication, manufacturers can ensure timely and reliable access to necessary inputs and resources. Collaboration enables better planning, inventory management, and synchronised production schedules, thereby reducing the risk of disruptions and improving customer satisfaction.

Greater Flexibility

In a dynamic and fast-moving business environment, manufacturers must be responsive to evolving market demands to remain competitive. Effective supply chain management provides the flexibility that manufacturers need to be versatile and avoid stagnation. By implementing agile processes and leveraging real-time data, companies can respond promptly to changes in customer preferences, market trends, and unexpected disruption. Consequently, production volumes can be adjusted more quickly, and resources allocated more efficiently to maintain a competitive edge.

Reduced Costs And Enhanced Profitability

An optimised supply chain helps manufacturers to reduce their overheads and lower costs, for example through implementing fuel-efficient transport options, cost-efficient ordering practices, and strict handling procedures. This improves profitability by minimising wastage, decreasing lead times, and enhancing overall cost-efficiency. By improving supply chain management, manufacturers can ensure that inventory is optimised to reduce stockouts and excesses and improves the accuracy of demand planning.

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At Hone-All, we deliver expert precision machining services within the time constraints of your project to prevent frustrating bottlenecks in the supply chain and help you to meet your deadlines. To find out more, please get in touch on 01525 370666 or send us a message.

You outsource your CNC honing or other machining to a third-party specialist, you need absolute confidence that your machined components will meet exacting specifications, with no deviation from the exceptional quality for which your business is known. Outsourcing honing is a cost-effective and logical decision that reduces your long-term expenses and protects your brand’s reputation for superior products; therefore, it’s vital that your sub-contract partner matches your commitment to quality.

From the initial inspection to the final delivery, every step of the process must be carefully executed to safeguard the integrity of the goods. At Hone-All, a critical element in this process is enhanced packaging, which helps to secure exacting standards and streamline communication between stakeholders.

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Securing Quality

At the forefront of quality control is our exceptional Goods Out team, whose expertise in identifying Foreign Object Debris (FOD) is crucial. FOD describes small debris or loose objects that have the potential to cause significant damage to manufactured parts during shipping.

By meticulously inspecting each product before it is wrapped and packed, the Goods Out team ensures that no contaminants or foreign materials compromise the final product. By conducting a rigorous inspection process, the team perform an essential quality control measure to ensure that only pristine goods are sent for delivery.

Ensuring Transparency

To address any potential issues raised by couriers or customers, photographs are taken during and after the wrapping and packing process. These images are unequivocal evidence that all machined parts are in optimum condition when prepared for dispatch and that they are packaged securely to prevent damage.

By capturing visual evidence of every step of the process, we ensure transparency should queries or concerns be raised and showcase our commitment to quality.

Documenting Quality

Enhanced packaging goes beyond the physical protection of machined parts; it also includes a comprehensive documentation trail, including delivery notes, quality certificates, and material certificates, which are meticulously prepared to accompany each shipment. Documentation serves as proof of quality and compliance with regulations; and in most cases, the documents are automatically sent to customers for their records.

The attention to detail in our documentation reinforces our commitment to quality and provides customers with confidence that their finished product will meet or exceed their expectations.

Seamlessly Communicating

Effective communication is vital throughout the inspection and delivery process. The Customer Induction Questionnaire plays a crucial role in streamlining communication: by collecting essential information about customer preferences, delivery instructions, and potential shipping concerns, the questionnaire enables us to tailor our packaging and delivery approach to eradicate the risk of damage.

Seamless and transparent communication with our customers ensures that their expectations are met, and potential issues are proactively addressed, and instills confidence that all of our precision machined parts will arrive in pristine condition and to the exact specifications requested.

Get In Touch For More Information

To find out more about our CNC honing, or other precision machining services, or to chat to us about your next machining project, please call Hone-All today on 01525 370666 or send an enquiry to our team.

In manufacturing, a robust production control system is essential to maintain efficiency and quality, and to meet customer demands. Lead times are often tight, so manufacturers must be able to produce highly precise parts quickly and reliably, without compromising on product quality.

At Hone-All, we’ve been using the RedAnt production control system for almost 20 years. Throughout that time, it has grown with us and thanks to its continuous improvement and development, it caters for all our current and future production control needs.

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In this article, we’ll explore the key features that make RedAnt the go-to solution for effective monitoring in engineering and manufacturing industries.

What Is RedAnt?

The RedAnt production control software is one of the most comprehensive systems of its type, offering manufacturing small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) a highly effective e-solution that is flexible and functional. As an end-to-end production solution, RedAnt offers core modules that embrace every element of day-to-day manufacturing needs, including:

• Database Management
• Quotations and Estimates
• Customer Orders
• Production Management, Scheduling & Real-Time Data Collection
• Supply Chain Management, Purchasing and Orders
• Inspection and Delivery
• Invoicing
• KPI Monitoring and Measurement

It also includes exceptional traceability and essential certificates for guaranteeing product quality, including conformity, calibration, customer and supplier non-conformity, and concessions.

Tailored For Success

RedAnt is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every business has unique requirements, so an effective production control system must be designed with customisation in mind. From small-scale operations to large enterprises, RedAnt can be tailored to suit a business’s specific needs. Whether it's managing inventory, tracking orders, or streamlining processes, RedAnt provides a comprehensive solution that drives success and helps us to meet our customers’ lead times.

Praised By Industry Leaders

The exceptional traceability and functionality of RedAnt have earned it praise from industry leaders, including Rolls Royce and BSI. These renowned businesses recognise the value that RedAnt brings to the production control processes of their supply chains. By leveraging RedAnt, we achieve greater visibility and control over our operations, leading to enhanced productivity and customer satisfaction.

Comprehensive Control

RedAnt offers comprehensive control over every aspect of manufacturing processes. Featuring historical data analysis, traceability of components and processes, and performance metrics tracking, RedAnt empowers Directors and Senior Managers to make data-driven decisions, identify bottlenecks, and optimise production processes to optimise efficiency.

Adaptability And Compliance

A key strength of the RedAnt production control software is its adaptability. As a manufacturing business evolves and industry standards change, RedAnt accommodates new developments, improvement ideas, and updates in ISO specifications. At Hone-All, we understand the importance of staying compliant and up-to-date, and RedAnt helps us to achieve that. In fact, if a change is requested that will benefit all clients, it is usually added free of charge. Charges to adapt the system only apply if the change is specific to one business, and in such cases, a switch can often be applied.

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To find out more about how RedAnt enhances and improves our precision machining services and why we’re the first choice for over 5000 customers, please call Hone-All today on 01525 370666 or send an enquiry and one of our team will respond soon.

In manufacturing processes, particularly those that create highly precision parts for the medical, automotive, or aerospace industries, efficiency is essential to ensure the timely delivery of high quality products. The Request for Quotation (RFQ) stage is a key element of the manufacturing process, not only because it provides customers with valuable information about lead times and costs, but also because it can significantly impact the manufacturing process.

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In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that we consider at the RFQ stage to optimise our manufacturing efficiency and deliver exceptional result's for our customers.

Accurate Costing And Lead Times

Understanding a customer’s project requirements and needs is crucial for us to provide accurate costings and lead time estimates. By carefully analysing the application, the specifications, materials, and manufacturing processes involved and utilising the power of manufacturing process software, we can provide more detailed and precise quotations. This helps our customers to plan around the anticipated delivery date and our team to streamline the manufacturing process for optimum efficiency.

Checking Drawn Features

Foresight, as the saying goes, is not about predicting the future but minimising surprises. During the manufacturing process, it’s essential that our machinists have a detailed understanding of the features that are required on a part, so they reduce the risk of inaccuracies and mistakes by carefully examining the initial drawings at the RFQ stage. This enables us to identify potential issues or challenges that may arise during production so that adjustments can be made to ensure the end product meets the desired specifications. Additionally, understanding the application can often lead to us challenging the need for specific drawing requirements which often results in us being able to reduce costs and lead time by simplifying or removing a drawn, but non-essential, feature.

Considering Concentricity

Concentricity is a critical factor in many manufacturing projects, particularly those that involve rotating or precision tubular-type components. It’s essential to consider concentricity requirements at the design and then material procurement stage, as this allows suitably sized materials to be sourced and machining techniques to be chosen. By giving careful thought to achievable concentricity, we optimise process efficiency and minimise the need for replacement, reworking or concession adjustments.

Handling Thin Wall Components

Thin wall components require special attention during the machining process as these delicate structures can be prone to deformation or distortion, which compromises the overall quality and functionality of the product. To safeguard quality standards, we apply our decades of experience and expertise to carefully select appropriate machining sequences, the correct cutting and clamping tools and machining parameters to ensure precise and accurate production of thin wall components.

Transparency In Quotations

Finally, clear and transparent communication is key to establishing trust and avoiding misunderstandings. Our detailed quotations offer a comprehensive breakdown of all planned operations, in the order we will be machining. Despite being advised that we are divulging our IP, we believe that by providing exceptional transparency, we empower our customers to understand the manufacturing process, make informed decisions, and provide valued feedback if necessary. Clear communication from the outset fosters a collaborative relationship with our customers which contributes to enhanced efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Contact Us To Find Out More

At Hone-All, open and honest communication underpins our customer relationships and contributes to outstanding service, the highest standard of quality and accurate, projected lead times. To find out more about our services, please call us on 01525 370666 or send an enquiry.

In precision manufacturing, it’s vital to ensure high quality standards to safeguard parts from poor levels of performance, premature wear, or unforeseen failure. This is particularly important in the aerospace industry, in which the safety of service users - passengers and aircraft personnel – depends on equipment performing reliably and consistently.

At Hone-All, we take immense pride in delivering high-quality parts that always meet, and often exceed, our customers' expectations. One of the key pillars of our quality control process is our comprehensive final inspection. In this article, we’ll explain how the final inspection process helps us achieve precision perfection.

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No Part Leaves Without A Rigorous Evaluation

Every job that specifies full inspection before completion undergoes a rigorous evaluation using our extensive range of gauging and measurement equipment before being shipped to the customer. Because every component that we machine has unique requirements, we employ a meticulous approach to guarantee the utmost precision and ensure that even the most exacting of specifications are accurately met.

Although full inspection is only carried out when specifically requested by the customer, many of our precision machining processes require 100 per cent inspection as per our service guide, which ensures that no detail is overlooked on any part, whether full inspection is requested or not.

Self-Inspection Methodology

Our aerospace approval allows us, under certain circumstances, to apply a self-inspection methodology. This means that, based on the engineer's training record and skills matrix, we can verify their suitability to carry out inspections internally.

By utilising the skills and experience of our qualified team, we can maintain efficiency without compromising on quality – a streamlined approach that allows us to uphold our commitment to delivering superior products which comply with aerospace standards and are also safe for use in highly demanding or challenging environments.

Meeting Specific Requirements

We understand that certain purchase orders may demand a higher level of inspection and verification. In such cases, we go above and beyond to meet these requirements. Whether it involves implementing process control plans, First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), Statistical Process Control (SPC), or other quality assurance measures, we ensure that our products adhere to the highest industry standards.

Our attention to detail and dedication to quality give our customers confidence in the reliability of our products.

A Transparent Quoting Process

At Hone-All, we believe in transparency and strive to provide our customers with a hassle-free experience. Our quoting process considers any comprehensive final inspection requirements, to ensure that there are no unexpected costs for our customers. By including the costs that are associated with thorough inspection and quality control measures in our quotations, we aim to eliminate unwanted surprises down the line.

Our commitment to transparency strengthens our relationships with customers, fostering trust and loyalty in our services and is why so many of our customers return to us on a regular basis, often without even asking for a quotation first!

Contact Us To Find Out More

To find out more about our services for the aerospace and a wide variety of other industries, please call Hone-All today on 01525 370666 or send an enquiry to our fantastic team.

Compared with deep hole drilling or boring, trepanning tools offer several important advantages. Whether you are working on a large-scale industrial project or a precision machining application, trepanning tools can make a significant difference in terms of efficiency, cost savings, and material utilisation.

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Whilst applications can sometimes be limited due to the restrictions of tooling and larger tolerances, when trepanning is a viable option, the benefits can be tremendous.

In this article, we’ll explore five key advantages of using trepanning tools for producing large bores.

1. Reduced Effort

One of the primary advantages of using trepanning tools is that they require less energy compared to other types of drilling methods. Instead of removing the entire core by chipping it away, trepanning tools cut out a solid core which takes less time and energy to achieve the desired hole size, particularly when drilling hard materials. This results in reduced tool wear and enhanced productivity.

2. Cost-Efficiency Savings

Trepanning tools offer multiple cost-saving benefits. Firstly, trepanning reduces material waste by cutting out a core or slug, leaving behind a usable core that can be assigned to other projects or recycled at a higher value than chipped swarf. Also, trepanning reduces the usage of boring heads, tips and tooling since the tool only removes the required cylindrical portion and, therefore, is subjected to less wear. This translates into savings in terms of tooling costs and reduces the frequency of tool replacements.

3. Improved Energy Efficiency And Sustainability

Deep hole drilling and boring are energy-intensive processes, particularly when the inner core of the drilled hole is converted to swarf. However, by using trepanning tools, your business can significantly reduce its energy costs because cutting out a solid cylinder is a more efficient method. Improved energy efficiency reduces operational costs and contributes to a more sustainable manufacturing process.

4. Tool Usage Optimisation

Trepanning tools allow for the most efficient use of cutting tools. Unlike conventional drilling methods, which results in a large amount to tool wear and degradation, trepanning tools require fewer tool changes and replacements. Also, by recycling trepanned slugs and optimising tool usage, you can extend the lifespan of your cutting tools, reduce tooling costs, and minimise the downtime that is required for tool changes.

5. Material Utilisation

Trepanning machining enables more efficient material utilisation. By cutting out a cylindrical core, trepanning tools leave behind reusable raw material that can be used in other applications. This reduces material waste and maximises the utilisation of raw materials, resulting in cost savings. However, please note that by carrying out the trepanning process, material properties can be altered and therefore, the original material certificate must not be used for the recycled material to be used in another application.

Contact Hone-All For A Free, No-Obligation Quotation

We have a wide range of deep hole drilling, deep hole boring and trepanning tools and equipment and will always advise the most cost-effective solution for our customers and their projects. If you’re unsure or would like to discuss the suitability of trepanning for your project, please call us on 01525 370666 or send us a message and our team will be in touch.

With the Government recently announcing a significant investment in the manufacture of semiconductors in the UK to head off global challenges, it’s a good time to consider the environmental, social, and economic impacts of domestic manufacturing.

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In today's globalised world, in which the ten largest importing industries to the UK account for an estimated £220bn of products, the benefits of domestic manufacturing are of even greater importance, particularly at a time of rising concerns about the fragility of the environment.

In this article, we’ll explore the environmental, social, and economic impacts of domestic manufacturing.

Environmental Impact

According to the Office for National Statistics, the UK’s carbon emissions peaked nearly four decades later than first thought once the effect of imported emissions – for example, those produced when products are imported from overseas – are taken into account. While many scientists believe that emissions reached their peak in 1972, the effects of imported emissions means that CO² levels were rising until 2007.

With pressure on businesses to achieve net zero by 2050, domestic manufacturing plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of goods. By producing goods locally, shipping distances are minimised, resulting in the lower emissions that are associated with long-distance travel. Also, when products are manufactured closer to their intended markets, raw materials are more likely to be sourced locally, reducing the need for extensive transport networks and contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly supply chain.

Social Impact

In the last half-century, the number of people employed in UK manufacturing has plummeted by over 5 million as the country has shifted towards a service economy that relies on overseas imports for huge volumes of goods. Domestic manufacturing, however, creates job opportunities within local communities, contributing to lower unemployment rates and better stability and security for workers and their families.

Moreover, manufacturing facilities in close proximity to partners, suppliers, and customers improve communication and collaboration and help to overcome the productivity challenges, such as different time zones and language barriers.

Economic Impact

In many countries, the manufacturing sector is one of the largest contributors to GDP, driving economic expansion and development. By producing goods locally, revenue is generated within the country, boosting economic growth and creating a multiplier effect that leads to increased spending power, job creation, and enhanced economic stability. For example, in the US the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) reports that every $1 spent in manufacturing generates $2.74 in economic activity; furthermore, each manufacturing job supports an additional 2.5 jobs in other sectors.

Additionally, relying on domestic manufacturing reduces dependence on imports, strengthening the country's self-sufficiency and resilience in leaner times or during unforeseen circumstances.

Supply Chain Resilience

Finally, local manufacturing reduces reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions by offering greater control over the manufacturing process and supply chain logistics. This minimises the potential for delays, transport issues, and logistical challenges. In times of crises or emergencies, such as natural disasters or pandemics, a robust local supply chain ensures a more reliable supply of essential goods and reduces vulnerability to disruptions.

Find Out More About Our Services

At Hone-All, we carry out our deep hole boring, honing and precision engineering services at a dedicated facility in Bedfordshire, enabling us to support UK manufacturers with no dependence on overseas providers. To find out more about how we can support your project, please call us on 01525 370666.

The week is Manufacturing & Engineering Week, and is set to be a special time in the UK manufacturing sector’s annual events calendar. This year, the event culminates in a series of concurrent free two-day events on 7^th and 8th June to be held at the NEC Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, in which industry thought leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs will meet to map out the future of the manufacturing and engineering sector.

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The event will showcase the latest technologies and innovations shaping the sector at all levels, from supply chain optimisation, automation, AI, process streamlining, and future growth strategies.

Summits and conferences to be held as part of Manufacturing & Engineering Week include:

• Design & Engineering Expo

• Drives & Controls Zone

• Maintec

• Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit

• Smart Factory Expo

• SME Growth Summit

Manufacturing & Engineering Week is one of the best opportunities to learn from engineering leaders and connect with new and prospective suppliers and is almost unique in the way that the event incorporates specialist exhibitors, workshops, and conference speakers from such a wide range of specialist areas under one roof.

The event is expected to attract over 7,500 delegates, speakers, and exhibitors from across Europe and the UK.

One of the highlights of the event is going to be an expert-led, case study-driven conference programme, featuring a variety of inspiring keynote speakers from the highest levels of industry and government policy-making bodies. The focus of many of the keynote addresses is set to revolve around how innovative advancements are addressing the various supply chain challenges, sustainability issues, workforce gaps, and energy challenges currently facing the industry.

Our Director Andrea Wilson was delighted to be on the advisory board for this year’s event and will be at the NEC over both days representing Hone-All as well as speaking at the SME Growth Summit about SME’s, The Unsung Heroes on the Wednesday morning.

If you’re planning to attend and would like to link up for a coffee and an informal chat, please let us know. Manufacturing and Engineering Week is a fantastic opportunity to put faces to names and we are looking forward to an inspiring and memorable event.

Hopefully see you there!

The recent discovery in Israel of a 3,500-year-old body which had undergone trepanation – the drilling of a hole in the skull to relieve head pain – is one of many examples of this primitive medical procedure that have been discovered by archaeologists. Fortunately, modern science has equipped doctors with the knowledge and skills to treat patients more safely, leaving trepanning to precision engineers in the oil and gas, machinery and heavy equipment, manufacturing, metal production and distribution industries.

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In this guide, we’ll explain what trepanning is, its advantages over other deep hole drilling and boring methods, and when you should choose it for your manufacturing project.

What Is Trepanning?

Developed 65 years ago as a method for drilling deep holes in industrial projects, trepanning machining involves the use of specialised equipment, known as a trepanning tool, which serves two purposes: to remove a solid core from a piece of round bar or material, or to machine and then part off the outer sleeve of a billet.

When it comes to drilling large holes or removing substantial amounts of material, trepanning is the go-to method. Whereas gundrilling or deep hole boring removes the entire core and converts it to chips or swarf that cannot be reused, trepanning leaves the core intact as only the outer edges of the hole’s perimeter are cut away. This means that trepanning is a more cost-efficient and versatile solution that facilitates the drilling of large holes in a controlled and precise way.

What Are The Advantages Of Trepanning?

So, why should you consider trepanning machining instead of other methods of deep hole drilling or boring?

• Ideal for large-diameter holes: Trepanning delivers efficient and accurate results in projects that require holes with large diameters from several inches to a few feet, for example in the oil and gas industry.
• Energy-efficient: Compared with other boring methods, trepanning consumes less energy, even when drilling hard metals, as it’s more efficient and quicker to cut a ring-shaped annulus than to remove the entire core from the billet.
• Reduces waste: Because traditional deep hole drilling destroys the core, it cannot be reused, which increases project costs and results in greater waste. In contrast, trepanning preserves the core so it can be reused or recycled, which is especially important when machining expensive materials, such as titanium.
• Faster, more precise results: Trepanning delivers quicker results as the outer sleeve of a material can be removed in a single process, without the need for numerous passes. And, because the inner core isn’t converted to swarf during the drilling process, your team will save time as they won’t need to constantly clean away the swarf which can cause imperfections or interruptions.

Trepanning: The Best Solution For Large-Diameter Holes

If your industrial project requires large-diameter holes, or you need to reduce costs or reclaim valuable raw materials after boring, trepanning is the most cost-effective and efficient way to achieve outstanding results.

To find out more about our trepanning services or request a free quotation, please call Hone-All on 01525 370666 or send us an enquiry and one of our team will be pleased to assist you.

In March 2023, Make UK published a key report, ‘No Weak Links: Building Supply Chain Resilience’, which laid bare the soaring pressure on supply chains that is resulting in long lead times and rising prices. The severe disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic persuaded many manufacturing businesses that their supply chains needed to become more sustainable, resilient, and collaborative to protect themselves against global instability.

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The great news is that many companies have turned to reshoring, a strategy that involves bringing back production and sourcing to the UK to overcome the challenges associated with offshore operations. Since 2008, 70 per cent of business surveyed have conducted some form of reshoring and an equal number would consider further reshoring in future (with most opting for direct reshoring back to the UK instead of indirect reshoring).

So, what are the advantages of reshoring as a supply chain strategy and how can it benefit manufacturing businesses currently importing?

Greater Stability At Times Of Upheaval

One of the key advantages of reshoring is the ability to circumvent economic and political uncertainties that can arise from offshore operations. By having suppliers located in the UK, businesses can minimise the risks associated with global conflicts or economic crises, such as the conflict in Ukraine which had a profound impact on the economy, disrupted supply chains, and caused significant delays to some commodities. Reshoring enables companies to mitigate such risks and maintain a more stable and reliable supply chain.

Improved Communication And Efficiency

Reshoring brings suppliers closer, both geographically and culturally, which enhances communication and efficiency. With suppliers operating in the same time zone and speaking the same language, there are fewer challenges that can lead to misunderstandings or delays. Shorter distances also result in faster delivery times, reducing lead times and enabling a quicker response to fluctuating consumer demand. In comparison, shipping from China to the UK takes an average of 30 days, with the Low Sulphur Regulations also driving up the cost of transportation.

Enhanced Control Over The Supply Chain

Reshoring empowers businesses to assume greater control over their supply chain. By bringing production closer to home, companies can improve the management of inventory, quality control, and other key business operations. Enhanced control reduces dependence on external factors, avoids uncontrolled costs and provides businesses with the agility they need to swiftly adapt to changing market conditions or unexpected global instability.

Revitalising Audience Appeal

Reshoring also offers significant benefits from a customer perspective. Consumers are increasingly conscious of sustainability and the benefits of ethical purchases, so are more likely to buy products that are locally produced and haven’t been shipped across entire continents. By reshoring, manufacturers will be able to celebrate their commitment to the environment, thereby creating a positive brand image that leads to increased sales and customer loyalty. And, because localised supply chains mean there aren’t the long waits for raw materials or components associated with offshore production, businesses will be able to meet customer demand more quickly and overcome the problem of elongated lead times.

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At Hone-All, we have extensive experience of providing end-to-end precision engineering for UK manufacturers who are seeking to bring their operations home.

If you would like to reduce your costs, improve lead times, and strengthen your green credentials (as well as your contribution to the UK economy), please get in touch with Hone-All today on 01525 370666 to find out how we can support you.

The UK’s manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Consequently, the development of a robust industrial strategy for manufacturing is imperative, to lay the foundations for a thriving sector and ensure its competitiveness on a global scale. 

According to research, 99 per cent of manufacturers believe that the UK should have a clear industrial strategy.

Recently, the Make UK campaign for an industrial strategy was launched, supported by Hone-All’s director, Andrea Wilson, who regularly showcases her commitment to the development of a robust manufacturing industrial strategy that will strengthen the sector and ward off global challenges to its future success through her LinkedIn campaign for a Minister for Manufacturing. 

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Why A Manufacturing Industrial Strategy Is Important

The significance of a Manufacturing Industrial Strategy in the UK cannot be overstated, as the industry plays a significant role in stimulating and supporting the country’s economy:

• Manufacturing accounts for approximately one-half of all UK exports.

• In 2022, the sector generated £206bn gross value for the economy, an increase of 20 per cent compared to 2012, and 15 per cent of total UK business investment.

• Manufacturing provides employment for 2.6m skilled workers across the country, particularly in areas identified as priorities for levelling-up.

However, the UK’s manufacturing sector is at a critical point. The disruption caused by the UK’s exit from the European Union and the global pandemic, the need to meet net-zero targets by 2050, and advances in technology pose significant challenges for the industry as a whole, from small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large national entities.

So, how does the UK’s manufacturing industry compare to overseas competitors? 

In comparison, the German manufacturing sector is double the size of the UK’s, accounting for more than 18 per cent of the national GDP in 2021. Yet despite its strength and growth, the German government has put forward The Industrial Strategy 2030 to further reinforce the manufacturing sector’s competitiveness and to increase its contribution to national growth and prosperity. The German strategy focuses on three key areas: improving the overall conditions for entrepreneurial activities; strengthening new technologies by mobilising private capital; and maintaining technological sovereignty.

A strong manufacturing industrial strategy in the UK will provide a clear roadmap for growth and lay the groundwork for policies and initiatives that support the manufacturing sector. A well-crafted strategy should encompass various aspects, including:

• Skills development

• Investment in Research and Development (R&D)

• Infrastructure improvement

• Collaboration between industry and schools to raise the profile of manufacturing.

The strategy will act as a catalyst for economic progress by addressing the challenges faced by the manufacturing industry and unlocking its true potential.

What Are The Primary Objectives Of The Make UK Campaign?

The primary objectives of the Make UK campaign revolve around enhancing key challenges faced by the manufacturing industry. These objectives include:

• Driving innovation

• Fostering productivity and growth

• Promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility

• Nurturing a skilled workforce

By addressing these areas, the campaign aims to create an environment that allows manufacturers to flourish and remain competitive in an increasingly globalised market.

What Challenges Are Facing The UK Manufacturing Industry?

One of the specific challenges that the Make UK campaign aims to tackle is the skills gap. The manufacturing industry requires a highly skilled workforce to keep up with technological advancements and evolving demands, yet in 2022 engineering was the least popular GCSE option selected by students, with only 2,305 teenagers undertaking the course. Through targeted initiatives, such as apprenticeship programs, vocational training, and partnerships with educational institutions, the campaign aims to bridge the skills gap and create a pipeline of talented individuals able to contribute to the manufacturing sector.

Additionally, the campaign recognises the importance of embracing sustainability and environmental responsibility. Manufacturing processes have a significant impact on the environment: in 2020, the UK sector produced over 78m metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions and, while this is 40 per cent less than in 1990, the accelerating decline of the climate requires businesses to adopt sustainable practices that minimise waste, reduce carbon emissions, and conserve resources. The Make UK campaign advocates the implementation of eco-friendly strategies and the adoption of green technologies to create a more environmentally friendly industry.

Empowering Manufacturers To Thrive.

Ultimately, the Make UK campaign seeks to empower manufacturers to thrive and succeed in an increasingly competitive landscape. By addressing key challenges, promoting innovation and sustainability, and nurturing a skilled workforce, the campaign aims to create a supportive environment for manufacturers to grow and flourish.

The launch of the Make UK campaign, and the media coverage it has since attracted, we hope will be a significant step towards the development of a robust manufacturing industrial strategy. With a strong strategy in place, the industry will be well-equipped to ignite growth, foster innovation, and drive economic prosperity in the future. 

Hydraulic systems are present on all types of aircraft, providing vital control to a range of systems and components, including landing gear, steering, thrust reversers, and cargo doors. Hydraulic failures are inconvenient and costly but, more importantly, may cause serious threats to flight safety such as a loss of control, the inability to extend or retract flaps, or problems raising or lowering landing gear.

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Because hydraulic systems are more common in aircraft design than ever before, flight safety is dependent on their successful operation. Therefore, it’s imperative that components are manufactured and honed to deliver optimum performance.

The Benefits Of Honing For Aeronautical Engineering

Honing is a crucial part of surface preparation for hydraulic components and, when completed precisely, offers important benefits for optimal efficiency, accuracy, and lifespan.

Efficient, Durable Pistons

Because pistons in hydraulic systems are exposed to constant strain, friction, and pressure, they may wear quickly. Surface honing can considerably improve the lifespan of the pistons, protect them from premature wear, and enhance tolerances to provide a precise fit during operation.

Lower Chance Of Component Failure

A component failure on-board an aircraft can be incredibly dangerous and life threatening. Superior quality honing will eliminate inconsistences in the size and finish on the surface of critical components, so that uneven wear is avoided. Pistons that have been honed will experience slower wear, as smoother movements within the cylinders will be achieved.

Improved Fluid Transmission

For effective system operation, hydraulic fluid must be efficiently transmitted between cylinders. Accurate honing ensures that inconsistencies are removed, resulting in a smooth machined surface that enables fluid to be transmitted in the system more efficiently and quickly. Honing also makes it easier to spot deficiencies, such as dents or scratches, that could make system failure more likely.

Hone-All: Your First Choice For Your Aerospace Honing

All hydraulic components on-board an aircraft must provide consistent and reliable performance, so it’s vital that honing is completed to high standards. Choosing a honing partner who offers substandard services for a tempting price could result in product failures. 

A specialist, such as Hone-All, who has extensive experience of the aerospace industry, will ensure that the work is completed accurately first time.

At Hone-All we provide:

• A tailored honing service to meet the unique needs of each project.

• A commitment to the highest standards, as evidenced by our AS 9100 & ISO 9001 accreditation.

• Decades of extensive experience of honing for the aerospace industry, so there’s no job too large or complex for our team.

• A pledge to complete honing as quickly as possible without impacting on the quality of the work.

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If you would like to find out about our honing services, or would like to know more about our service and costings, please call the team here at Hone-All on 01525 370666 or request a quote and we will be in touch.

If your manufacturing business isn’t achieving optimum efficiency and productivity, now is the time to give serious thought to how you can transform its operations in 2023. Manufacturing efficiency ensures that you can produce as many products as possible in the shortest possible time, without compromising on quality. This enables you to achieve higher profits and unlock business growth by pitching your products and services at a more attractive price point.Contact The Team at Hone-All Today

A Business-Wide Approach

Efficiency improvements should be targeted across all parts of your business – not just on the production line or shop floor! You should also take account of your organisation’s place within the wider manufacturing ecosystem, for example to reduce dependency on expensive in-house machinery when outsourced partners can deliver better results for a more cost-effective price, or within a quicker time frame.

The Benefits Of Outsourcing

Precision machining requires specialist equipment that can be difficult to operate and expensive to maintain. Unexpected downtime can cripple production and for some small businesses, even purchasing the equipment and related tooling can be financially impossible.

Subcontracting deep hole drilling, boring, and honing to Hone-All offers significant benefits in terms of increased productivity and efficiency, including:

• High-quality results: you won’t need to invest in new equipment or time-consuming training yet will receive exceptional quality components that meet the most exacting specifications.

• More efficient use of space: precision machining equipment takes up a large amount of floor space (particularly deep hole boring!) so, by outsourcing to Hone-All, you can redesign your production line to function in the most efficient and cost-effective way.

• Less waste: machining processes, such as honing, require a high degree of proficiency which, if not achieved, can create waste and lost revenues. Outsourcing minimises the risks as experts will be carrying out the work on your behalf.

• Shorter lead times: as an outsourced specialist, we provide a dedicated machining service and will strive to meet your deadlines, so you can focus on optimising the rest of your production line for faster turnaround times.

Waste: An Expensive Commodity

Inefficient use of materials is one of the biggest avoidable expenses in manufacturing. As well as outsourcing your specialist machining to Hone-All, you can reduce waste by:

• Designing components in the most efficient way possible by reducing how much raw material is needed. We can advise on this if contacted early enough in the quotation process.

• Selling waste materials to collectors instead of recycling it for free. We can recommend a number of great partners we work with. 

• Optimising your consumption of materials and tools by adopting a policy of reusing instead of scrapping.

• Reducing the use of non-recyclable packaging materials or using less to ship completed products.

The Importance Of Organisation

Poorly organised workspaces rarely support efficiency or productivity improvements, and result in many hours of obsolete time that could be better spent producing more goods. A comprehensive review of your shop floor will identify weaknesses in your production, such as inaccessible tools, inefficiently stocked materials, and disjointed equipment layout.

By consulting with your team to identify the barriers to an efficient workflow, you’ll quickly learn how the production line isn’t working and what steps are needed to sharpen its performance.

Contact Hone-All For More Information

To find out more about outsourcing your machining needs to Hone-All, or you’d like some advice on the excellent lean processes we’ve adopted, please get in touch or call 01525 370666 to chat to our team.

Performance in the automotive industry is more important than ever before with the advent of new technologies and a growing awareness of the need for more economical consumption of fuel amid a worsening climate crisis. Better performing engines depend on effective honing to create highly functional surfaces on components, making it one of the most important processes in engine manufacturing.Contact The Team at Hone-All Today

In this article, we’ll explore the role that honing plays in the automotive industry and its importance.

The Benefits Of Honing In The Automotive Industry

Honing – sometimes confused with lapping or grinding – creates the optimum finish for numerous important automotive components, from brake drums and engine blocks to drive shafts and anti-roll bars. The process eliminates imperfections on metal surfaces, helping to achieve more precise geometric tolerances.

Honing can be completed by hand or machine. 

The benefits of honing in automotive component manufacturing include:

• Improved engine performance: correctly honed cylinders, for example, are less likely to cause a vehicle to fail its emissions test.

• Enhanced engine properties, such as fuel and oil consumption.

• Extended lifespan of key components: engine parts are often subjected to excessive pressure and stresses and, therefore, can wear more quickly. Honing protects parts against wear and improves durability and lifespan.

• Better performance between mating parts, with lower friction that could cause damage.

• More achievable minimum tolerances to achieve desirable results, such as oil retention.

Why Choose Hone-All For Automotive Honing?

At Hone-All, we have extensive experience of providing honing services for manufacturers of automotive components, which are completed to the globally recognised standards BS EN 9100 and AS 9100. 

For optimum results, we use CNC honing technology which delivers exceptional efficiency, precision, and productivity, with benefits that include:

• Exceptional tolerances and exacting dimensions.

• Consistent accuracy and quality, with surface finishes of 0,05μ.

• A high degree of repeatability for multiple copies of the same component.

• In-built metrology to control stock removal.

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At Hone-All, we provide high-quality CNC honing for automotive parts that ensures the surface finish is free from imperfections, eliminating the risk that substandard parts will cause the premature failure of crucial engine components.

To find out more about our honing services, or to request a free, no-obligation quotation, please call Hone-All on 01525 370666 or send us a message and we’ll be delighted to assist.

Customer satisfaction is all-important, especially in the days of social media, where poor service can severely impact brand reputations among B2B manufacturers. When considering customer satisfaction, it's common to look at front-end factors like service, personalisation, and convenience. Basics like value for money, availability, lead-time, and quality are also essential.

However, customer satisfaction can be driven by mechanisms largely invisible to the end client. Among these, supply chain issues are perhaps the single most important factor in determining price, service level and product availability. But manufacturing supply chains are often complex and may be subject to disruptions that are outside of your direct business control. 

So, how are supply chain issues causing problems for your customers, and what can be done to improve them?

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Manufacturing Supply Chain Problems

When your supply chain is working like clockwork, product delivery is synchronised, prices are reasonable, and everyone is happy. Supply chain optimisation is a business imperative. Logistical efficiencies, effective navigation of markets and efficient planning pay huge dividends. However, optimum supply chain configuration is only possible in relatively stable conditions.

Recent events have shown us how easily this stability can be disrupted. The Covid pandemic and war in Ukraine have each raised significant challenges for businesses. For the UK and many EU countries, Brexit has also caused difficulties, with logistics and trading with Europe now requiring businesses to update their procedures. For example, customs checks are now required for goods sent between the EU and UK. Businesses need to take on a range of commodity codes specifying quotas, duties, licensing, and labelling requirements and so on. Plus, certification to prove compliance with EU standards is needed at EU borders. Problems with any of these aspects can cause significant delays in transit.

The Covid pandemic has had even wider effects. The suspension of factories internationally has interrupted manufacturing, causing product shortages and bottlenecks that may not be resolved until next year in some cases. And with port closures and transit interruptions, shipping has been significantly affected. As a major exporter, China's zero-Covid policy, especially, has had wide repercussions on international supply chains. International logistics normally achieves its efficiencies within the tightest of schedules, but as shipping containers clog up ports, knock-on effects of loading and unloading, or rerouting to other destinations, can mean delays of weeks or more and add significant costs to the overall project.

Improving Supply Chains

With these difficulties persisting, buyers have encountered their effects as rising prices, limited product availability and unpredictable delivery times. It's not hard to see why customers may become dissatisfied. While there is little that individual businesses can do to prevent the root causes of these disruptions, many are taking preventive actions to improve their customers' experiences.

For example, moving production facilities or industrial logistics closer to home can improve stability. Reshoring to the UK and localisation cut out many of the international factors in supply chain disruption. This isn’t to say that businesses should stop working with international supply partners, but by investing in improved local infrastructures, businesses can secure more resilient supply chains, as well as reduce the cost of logistics and save on carbon emissions.

Benefits For Customer Satisfaction

Temporary disruptions can be weathered, but customers will soon look to other sources if they face unreliability and high prices from their suppliers. There are, however, options that businesses have to improve customer satisfaction by mitigating supply chain risks. With global headwinds continuing, it's wise to consider what improvements you can make, for your customers' benefits and your own.

It is also worth ensuring you continue to look for opportunities on offer as many larger businesses are now on the look out for suppliers closer to home in order to mitigate their own supply disruptions, but these are rarely advertised so research is key, and collaboration and sharing of these opportunities imperative, particularly for SME’s.  

Next Steps

For more information about supply chain optimisation and how Hone-All can help you save time and costs, contact us today.

If there’s one thing that manufacturers should have learned in recent years, it’s to expect the unexpected. Brexit, the global pandemic, and the Ukraine war have caused economic turmoil that has posed major challenges for the manufacturing industry, least not the supply of raw materials and key commodities required for efficient and resilient production supply.

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Supply chains are highly vulnerable to disruption, but they can be incredibly resilient too. 

So, how can manufacturers achieve this? 

Many businesses have rightly identified visibility, efficiency, and workforce reskilling as priorities to reinforce their manufacturing supply chains and increase their flexibility and resilience. In this article, however, we’ll explore the concept of diversification and how it could benefit your manufacturing business.

What Is Supply Chain Diversification?

In supply chain diversification, manufacturers extend their network of suppliers so they have more choice and flexibility, thereby making them more responsive and resilient when market conditions change.

Supply chain diversification can take many forms, including:

• A wider network of suppliers so there is more product and price choice when ordering components or services.

• A broader geographical spread to overcome localised supply issues.

• Access to specialist machining skillsets that can withstand the impact of a supplier going offline.

What Are The Benefits Of Supply Chain Diversification?

The bottom line with the diversification of the supply chain is risk mitigation. Today’s fast-paced business environment poses numerous, often unforeseen, challenges for manufacturers, particularly small and middle-size enterprises (SMEs) who do not have vast financial resources with which to futureproof themselves.

By diversifying their supply chains, manufacturing SMEs can:

• Develop more flexible and agile processes to enable them to respond quickly when changes occur.

• Encourage innovation by establishing positive relationships with new suppliers who play a more involved role in fulfilling their needs.

• Reduce backorders and ensure demand can be met when shortages occur.

• Forge relationships with customers on a local level by offering competitive prices.

• Save money by reducing waste, cutting shipping fees, and sourcing cheaper prices.

How Hone-All Can Support Your Supplier Diversification Strategy

As experts in precision machining, we offer our customers reliable outsourced deep hole drilling, deep hole boring, turning, and honing, helping them to achieve optimum efficiency, productivity, and costs.

By choosing us as a trusted supplier as part of your diversification strategy, you can protect your business against the challenges of changing market conditions.

Our machining is carried out in-house in our dedicated facility with no reliance on outsourcing precision machining services which, combined with our network of approved suppliers, enables us to deliver consistent quality and excellent levels of service that meets and exceeds our customers’ expectations and deadlines.

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To find out more about our precision machining services, or to request a free, no-obligation quotation, please call Hone-All on 01525 370666.

Tubular components are found in many sectors of manufacturing and industry, but their design and specification varies enormously according to their intended application. In some sectors, such as aerospace and medical instrumentation, for example, tubes must be machined to incredibly tight tolerances to achieve exceptional performance and lightness. Inaccurate machining can result in high reject rates, material losses and sometimes, components functioning poorly which, in some circumstances, could endanger end users.

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At Hone-All, we have over two decades’ experience machining high precision tubular components. By combining our expertise with the latest equipment and tools, we meet the most exacting of specifications to achieve exceptional surface finishes and tight tolerances for tubes up to three metres in length.

The Problem Of Concentricity – And How We Deal With It

In simple terms, concentricity is the measure of the consistency of the wall thickness along the length of a tubular component. It is calculated by measuring the difference between the inside and outside diameters of a tube at different points along its length relative to the central axis.

When carrying out deep hole boring to achieve a thin wall, it’s important to start with a larger diameter material and to bore, and then turn, gradually in stages. This reduces movement in the material which can lead to inconsistent concentricity and compromised tolerances. While there’s a minimum wall thickness that can be worked with during deep hole boring, our expertise enables us to achieve incredibly thin walls while maintaining concentricity.

Customers should note that it may well be necessary to invest a little more initially, but this will be well worth it in the long run, as you’ll benefit from reduced wastage and more accurately machined components that will offer longer, more reliable performance – saving you more over time.

Why Choose Hone-All For Your Deep Hole Boring?

At Hone-All, we’re the first choice for industrial companies across the UK who need precisely machined tubular components that achieve exceptional tolerance and concentricity.

Our experienced engineering team have completed many deep hole boring projects for a range of sectors of industry, so we can provide expert advice about all aspects of your project, including material options and process estimates to machine layout and programming. By choosing Hone-All for your outsourced deep hole boring, you can be confident that we’ll produce outstanding results that are closely aligned to your needs and specifications, within budget and on time.

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If you need to outsource your deep hole boring to a professional and reliable precision machining specialist who can deliver the outstanding results you require, please call Hone-All today on 01525 370666 or click here to submit a request for a free, no-obligation quotation.      

Many manufacturing companies have embraced the turmoil of recent years to adapt their operations and futureproof their organisations against unforeseen events. But the changing face of business isn’t simply defined by isolated incidents, despite the global supply chain instability caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Eastern Europe. Evolutions in the way customers do business has transformed the manufacturing landscape, with a soaring reliance on digital channels and constantly shifting consumer demands also forcing many manufacturers to reconsider how to stay competitive.

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According to the 2022 State of Manufacturing Report, there are four key areas of concern for owners of manufacturing businesses:

1. Enhancing resilience and visibility in supply chains.
2. Addressing rising customer demand through increased control and predictability.
3. Improving productivity and collaboration.
4. Ensuring information security as new digital manufacturing solutions are adopted.

So, what steps can small and middle-sized enterprises (SMEs) take to improve their competitiveness and resilience at a time of fluctuating customer demand?

Outsource To External Specialists

More manufacturing SMEs are turning to external specialists to outsource key aspects of their production. Outsourcing allows manufacturers to concentrate on their core competencies, reduce operating costs, slash turnaround times, and inject more flexibility into their existing workflows. It also safeguards against work that is below standard: a specialist precision machining company, for example, will have the equipment and expertise required to achieve exceptional results first time, whereas trying to replicate the same standards in-house requires a significant investment in tools and training and increases the likelihood of unintended waste.

Choosing the right outsourced precision machinist ensures your business is more responsive when customer demand increases, as you can instantly scale up production – but ensure that you conduct due diligence checks to partner with a provider who can meet your requirements.

Utilise Digital Manufacturing

Digital tools are now a critical component of modern manufacturing and, for those businesses that steadfastly stick with so-called tried-and-tested techniques, staying ahead of the competition will be challenging. Digital technology enhances efficiency and productivity on the shop floor, helping you to produce more goods in less time, without impinging on quality.

If you’re a manufacturing SME who can’t afford to overhaul your production line with digital tools, however, outsourcing to a specialist will offer strong advantages. At Hone-All, we have invested heavily in our dedicated manufacturing centre and combine the latest tech with in-depth professional development for our team, so we can help your business to streamline its production, improve component quality, and increase productivity by allowing your staff to focus on what they do best.

Diversify Your Suppliers

Tested to the extreme, global supply chains suffered during the challenges of the last few years. Unsurprisingly, improving supply chain agility is a priority for many manufacturing businesses, hence the huge shift to reshoring for many larger manufacturing businesses.

Manufacturers who are fully prepared for supply chain disruptions will prove to be more resilient in the face of fluctuating customer demand. A reactive approach that tries to mitigate the short-term damage and deal with the fallout later will rarely yield profitable results. In contrast, diversification – expanding the supplier web to incorporate different types of suppliers or outsourced partners – will help to prevent delays, losses, and reputational damage by improving your ability to quickly respond to customer demand.

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To find out more about our outsourced deep hole boring, gun drilling, turning and honing services, or to request a free, no-obligation quotation, please call Hone-All on 01525 370666.

CNC turning combines long-established machining principles with cutting-edge Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, to deliver outstanding and consistently reliable results. Many businesses find it more cost effective to outsource some or all of their CNC turning requirements to an experienced precision machining provider, such as Hone-All.

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Obtaining an accurate quote for your contract CNC turning requirements is the first vital step in saving time and money on your production schedule.

To ensure the most accurate quotation, your precision engineering partner will need information about your technical specifications, budget, and time frame. An experienced supplier will be happy to talk you through the process and help you acquire the information required for a successful outcome. However, it is worth considering all the parameters required when requesting a quote for CNC turning. Without these, mistakes happen – all of which are, fortunately, easy to avoid when you are aware of them.

Here is what we would need: -

• The material specification – this is essential to ensure accurate quoting as material properties differ, as do the speeds and feeds required to machine them efficiently.
• Outside diameter – we need this to assess which machine the component can be held on as well as to ensure there is sufficient material to achieve your finished, external diameter.
• Inside diameter – this is only required if the part being supplied is tubular. It is required so that we are aware of any initial machining which may have been completed previously, or if the part has been purchased as tube, which can often impact the turning process requiring an additional, preparatory operation.
• Overall length – as with the first two, these are required for tooling and machine capacity decisions.
• The turning required – we need to know if you simply require us to reduce the size of the outside diameter or whether you require us to create an external profile or other detail.
• The tolerances – tolerances are a major factor when quoting any machining process as the tighter the tolerance, the more difficult it is to achieve, particularly on large parts.
• Any surface finish requirement – in addition to machining tolerances, this is needed to ascertain whether we have to add a polishing operation.
• I.R. or Straightness requirements – we need to know these as even though we may be only conducting a first stage turning process, we need to ensure there is sufficient material to achieve exactly what you require.

 Why Use CNC Turning?

As a subtractive machining process, CNC turning utilises a precise cutting tool to gradually shave materials from the workpiece as it is spun at speed. Instead of relying on continual manual supervision, which can lead to inaccurate cutting, CNC turning utilises measurements fed through to the lathe by CAD software to achieve exceptional precision to the tightest specifications.

Our state-of-the-art CNC turning services can achieve exacting tolerances and a capacity of up to 500mm in diameter and four metres between centres. For precision components used in the automotive, aerospace, medical, and motorsport sectors, CNC turning is often the fastest and most cost-effective way of producing large runs of precision components with pinpoint accuracy and consistent quality.

Why Choose Hone-All?

• Our tailored service will ensure your exacting requirements are consistently met.
• Our commitment to quality, underpinned by our BS ISO 9001 and EN 9100 accreditation, will ensure that machined parts perform to the standards you need.
• We will provide you with a clear outline of costs so you can plan your project’s funding.
• Our service will meet your timescales so you can offer clarity to your customers about lead times for their orders.
• We provide a bespoke, professional service that accommodates your budget and volume requirements.

If you would like to find out about our CNC turning services, please call us today on 01525 370666 or request a quote and our team will be in touch.

The global pandemic had far-reaching effects for manufacturing businesses, not just in the UK, but worldwide. Supply chains proved to be more fragile than had been judged, particularly for businesses obtaining services, materials, or parts from the Far East.

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With transit times from China to the UK taking on average, 30 days, and shipping costs doubling due to Low Sulphur Regulations introduced in 2020, many manufacturing businesses have started to consider whether it would be prudent to bring production back home.

Shortening Supply Chains By Reshoring

While some British manufacturing companies, in the wake of Covid-19, were considering the benefits of near-shoring to north and east African countries, such as Egypt, Ghana, and Morocco, war in Ukraine has forced a rethink as to whether this solution will shorten supply chains sufficiently.

The economic repercussions of the pandemic were still rippling through global markets when Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine, leading to major economic shocks, a shortage of some metals, and soaring fuel prices.

 Bringing production back to the UK offers tantalising benefits, including:

• Tighter supply chains: reshoring alleviates many of the unknowns of supply chains, plugs gaps that can cause delays across the supply chain ecosystem, and gives manufacturers greater control and capacity to make informed decisions to overcome bottlenecks and shortages.

• A stronger economy: while offshoring generates jobs in other countries, many of which are often poorly paid, reshoring provides much-needed employment in UK communities. Actively supporting local causes promotes a business’s social responsibility and adds value to the economic outlook, locally and nationally.

• Shorter lead times: the greater the distance between a manufacturer and a customer, the longer the lead times. Delays are caused by many factors which are often unpredictable: border inspections, political upheaval, and extreme weather can all lengthen shipping time and increase costs. Reshoring, especially to a country as compact as the UK, removes many of the barriers and shortens lead times, contributing to enhanced brand perception.

How Hone-All Can Support Your Business’s Reshoring Strategy

When you need a part to be made to a high standard, it makes sense to opt for reshoring.

The UK has a long history of manufacturing prowess and is well-placed to support manufacturing businesses in their drive for greater efficiency and competitiveness.

With extensive experience of delivering outstanding results for UK manufacturers in a range of industries, Hone-All’s end-to-end precision engineering service can make reshoring a cheaper and quicker solution. By choosing Hone-All as your engineering partner, you will benefit from:

• Faster turnaround, with our dedicated engineers working hard to meet your project’s timescales.
• No frustrating delays waiting for raw materials or finished products to arrive from overseas locations. We have complete control over our supply chains, procurement, and lead times.
• Exceptional quality standards that comply with BS ISO 9001 and EN 9100.
• Greater cost-efficiency, with lower overheads and shipping charges.
• A guarantee that all work will be completed in our Bedfordshire manufacturing facility, with no outsourcing to third party businesses – unless you specifically request us to outsource something we cannot do in house such as material treatments etc.

At Hone-All, we are also advocates for a cross-industry, Government-backed taskforce to assess the resilience of the UK’s supply chains and create a positive plan of action to protect the economy from economic, political, and social disruption. By acting now to strengthen the case for UK businesses to reshore their manufacturing requirements, we believe that the country will be better protected and more resilient against global uncertainties in future.

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If you would like to strengthen your supply chain, reduce your costs, improve lead times, and guarantee exceptional quality, please get in touch with Hone-All today on 01525 370666.

Requesting a quotation is the first step when you decide to outsource your precision manufacturing to Hone-All, or indeed any another provider. However, to be able to provide you with an accurate cost prediction for your project, your trusted supply partner will require the following information:

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• Whether you will be supplying the material or require us to source for you.
• The material specification and / or any minimum yield or tensile strength requirements – and of course, any sourcing specifications i.e., EU sourced.
• A technical drawing, or sketch with the required parameters and tolerances.
• In the absence of a drawing, a written specification including all details such as required internal and external diameters, lengths, tolerances, concentricity, and surface finishes required.
• Clarification of any blind bore forms if required.
• Technical details of any other treatments and if applicable, any sealed layout or specified process route.
• And finally, the quantity you need as this can impact the cost dramatically if a complex set up is required.

Without these parameters, creating an accurate costing becomes difficult.

Why Outsource Your Precision Engineering Needs?

When intricate or delicate components are required by a manufacturing process, the services of a precision machining specialist can be irreplaceable – saving you time and money on project delivery. By choosing a reliable partner to manufacture your key components, you benefit from:

• Access to the latest cutting-edge CNC technology without having to invest in new machinery yourself.
• Cost-effective materials sourced for a competitive price to keep your costs low.
• Wide-ranging specialist skills and qualifications that your own staff don’t possess.
• Effective methods to machine the most complex shapes and designs.
• Improved repeatability on long runs, so every part is identical to the last.

At Hone-All, we provide an end-to-end manufacturing service for business in a range of industries for whom accuracy and reliability are key factors, including:

• Aerospace and Defence
• Hydraulics
• Oil and Gas production
• Motorsport
• Printing and Packaging

Our service covers all aspects of the process, including assistance and guidance on your design, raw material procurement, prototyping, machining, and quality control. With access to state-of-the-art cutting and tooling equipment, we can provide outstanding and trustworthy manufacturing services that are underpinned by our BS ISO 9001 & EN 9100 Aerospace accreditations.

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To find out more about our manufacturing services or to discuss your project requirements with one of our expert staff, please call Hone-All on 01525 370666.

CNC machining is a complex process that requires careful consideration of the final project parameters and the materials being used. Different metals and polymers require different tools and techniques to achieve the best results, which can have an impact on both your project costs and timescale, and the quality of the finished components. With this in mind, it is essential to understand how to pick the best material for the application.

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We’ve previously covered the types of materials commonly used within CNC machining in an article you can read here. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the factors you should consider when making an informed decision.

Machine Compatibility And Operating Conditions

The most crucial factor when selecting your material is whether or not it is compatible with your project parameters and the specific machines and processes within your planned machining sequence. Depending on your requirements, you may need to use multiple types of tools or machinery, so be sure to consider all factors before making any decisions relating to your bill of materials. Different materials may also require different operating conditions; for example, aluminium requires a high cutting speed but a low feed rate, while steel requires a slower cutting speed coupled with a high feed.

CNC machining is extremely versatile and can deliver excellent results with a wide range of materials. However, fully considering the application, machine compatibility and operating conditions can help you determine which material will be best suited for your needs, and whether or not it is feasible to machine in-house or to outsource to a precision engineering partner, such as Hone-All, that already has the specialist equipment, tooling and expertise required.

Performance Considerations – Selecting The Best Material For Your Application

The end-use of your part or component is also a critical concern when selecting the best material for the machining processes – both how it operates independently and as part of the wider machine or assembly. Different materials have different properties, with varying benefits and drawbacks; for instance, brass is known for its strength and corrosion resistance while stainless steel offers superior durability and heat resistance.

Consider factors such as the strength, flexibility, weight, and thermal conductivity of the material when deciding which to use. Selecting a material that provides the properties required by your application will ensure that your final product meets customer expectations in terms of performance, quality, and compliance.

Budgeting And Cost Efficiency Considerations

Budget constraints may also play a factor in some projects; some materials are simply more expensive than others due to their rarity or difficulty in manufacturing but may still be necessary for specific projects due to their superior properties.

When specifying materials for a CNC machining project, it’s important to consider both upfront machining costs and long-term performance-related costs when planning which material to use.

Upfront expenses include your material sourcing costs, in-house labour, or outsourcing costs associated with machining, installation, and assembly; meanwhile, long-term costs include maintenance and repairs over the component’s expected lifespan, and potential replacement costs if needed. You should also account for delivery lead times associated with ordering some types of materials – which can fluctuate depending on market availability. If time is an issue, then it may be better to select a more commonly available substrate that can be easily sourced from local suppliers rather than opting for something more exotic or difficult to obtain.

How We Help

At Hone-All, we offer a wide range of materials for a variety of CNC machining solutions, with the tools and expertise to create high-performance, cost-effective components to meet your project brief. For a free quote or to discuss your needs, please call 01525 370666 today.

The adoption of modern production control software applications, such as RedAnt, has profound implications for efficiency and productivity among SME manufacturers, and could significantly boost UK manufacturing output over the next few years.

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What Is Production Control Software?

Production control software, or production management software, is a subset of ERP that is increasingly used by businesses to oversee all aspects of production management, including specifying the bill of materials, allocating labour and machinery, managing outsourced relationships, and optimising inventories across multiple projects.

This helps ensure that resources are being used efficiently and that projects run smoothly and are completed with minimal delays. With a better-managed value chain, businesses can reduce the amount of downtime associated with operations and maximise their productive output. Through these means, a good production control system can facilitate greater efficiency and improved quality, helping manufacturers reduce their project price, and overall CNC machining time and costs.

Production Control Software And Quality Assurance

Production control software delivers better QA oversight and provides better visibility over each stage of procurement, machining, and assembly, helping manufacturers monitor quality in real time and reduce product defects and waste. With automatic inspections and data collection, manufacturers can track their processes more closely and maintain a higher level of quality assurance throughout the production cycle.

Production Control Software And Customer Satisfaction

By utilising automated alerts, reports and shared customer/supplier dashboards, manufacturers can quickly identify issues at any point in the supply chain and resolve them before they become a downstream problem for the customer. This delivers a more responsive approach to customer satisfaction and project fulfilment, allowing UK manufacturers to build stronger relationships with their customers.

Production Control Software And Smart Factories

Production control software is one of the key assets involved in the transition to a ‘smart factory’ mode of operation. So called smart factories are digitally enabled manufacturing production lines that utilise a combination of software automation, big data analytics and Internet-of-Things (IoT) connectivity to integrate and automate all aspects of production.

The immediate benefit of this improved visibility and control is increased efficiency and productivity, as well as more effective quality control. Smart factories can also leverage predictive analytics to anticipate customer demand and position their manufacturing processes accordingly, by adjusting inventory tracking, optimising supply chain relationships, and selecting the best materials to achieve their project outcomes.

RedAnt Production Control System

At Hone-All, we recommend RedAnt to any SME manufacturing business looking to implement a new production control system for the first time. RedAnt is one of the most comprehensive production management systems currently available, giving SMEs a wide range of powerful and flexible features at a cost-effective price, with straightforward implementation requirements. RedAnt is an end-to-end production solution that covers everything from customer quotations through to invoices, with full traceability and accountability at each stage.

Get In Touch

Production control software is essentially the framework around which a smart factory is built, facilitating better resource management, streamlined processes, and customer satisfaction – and ultimately, increased competitiveness in the global market.

To find out more, and to discuss how Hone-All can help your business boost productivity as it strives towards greater success in 2023, please call 01525 370666 or Redant directly on 01558 650922 today.

Hi everyone,

Well, we said last year, it had been a year of challenges and yet, a year on, here we are saying the same things.

Conflict, crises, and critical issues have been the theme throughout these last 12 months and like everyone, we’re battling on through these the best we can.

Inflation, material shortages and daily price fluctuations have made all our jobs more difficult, as have the difficulties in recruitment and huge energy increases.

Throughout all of these, our team have done their best to keep our levels of service and excellence at the highest possible level and retain our pricing at a stable level, to give all our customers the best chance to deal with everything they’re facing.

It is through working together, we achieve the best results, and we cannot thank you all enough for your support, understanding and loyalty over these past 12 months.

Our participation in the 'Sharing in Growth' programme is leading to many more improvements and increasing our abilities here at Hone-All. We look forward to sharing some of those developments with you in the coming months and hope you see the benefits of the hard work we’re all doing to continue to improve our capacity, capabilities, and service – both to you, and our industry as a whole.

Thank you all so much for being such great partners and we wish you, your families, and your teams all the very best for the festive period and beyond.

And let’s hope that over the next 12 months, we see a return to stability and success for all.

With all our best wishes, 

Andrea & All the Team here at Hone-All xx 🎄

The saying ‘speculate to accumulate’ has been in existence for more than 70 years: businesses must be prepared to invest to make meaningful gains. While this implies a degree of operational risk– the truth is that businesses cannot prosper unless they make significant investments in their assets which, for manufacturers, are facilities, materials, equipment, and personnel.

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Unlocking Growth

Investing in your manufacturing company is not, however, a game of roulette, but a reliable way of enhancing productivity, efficiency, and brand reputation. Ideally, profits that a business generates should be reinvested in the company to stimulate growth and further profits; however, the current taxation system, which requires manufacturers to pay corporation tax on their profits, even when reinvested, places an artificial ceiling on how much money can be put back into a business’s development – unless it’s capital equipment thanks to the AIA.

It’s a point raised by Hone-All’s director, Andrea Wilson, in a recent interview with GB News, who said, “We shouldn’t have to pay corporation tax on profits when we’re reinvesting all those profits.”

So, what are the most important principles about investing in your manufacturing business to stimulate growth and enhance your organisation’s success?

Futureproof Your Business

In the first instance, investing in new technology, particularly when driven by IT, environmental enhancement, automation, or Artificial Intelligence (AI), will improve your business’s efficiency and productivity, as well as saving time and money. But in a competitive marketplace and an equally challenging fiscal environment, new tech can make your brand appealing to customers by delivering more precise components, more quickly, for less and with a reduced impact on the environment. Staying ahead of your rivals is crucial to safeguard your business’s future, so investing in the latest technology will help you to achieve this.

Strengthen Staff Loyalty

Your team are one of your most valuable assets. Workers don’t always crave higher pay above all else; instead, they need to feel they are valued and are being professionally developed through personalised training, helping them to play a valued part in your business’s success. Investing in your team may mean rewarding them with pay rises or bonuses, when justified. However, to secure long-term staff loyalty, it’s vital to provide opportunities for them to develop new skills and responsibilities in a flexible, thriving, and forward-thinking workplace culture.

Make Your Business More Appealing

Once you’ve invested in new equipment, investing money into a marketing campaign can showcase your business’s commitment to delivering the highest quality results for your customers and build trust and awareness. Entrusting your team to create attractive photographs or promotional videos for distribution through social media channels can raise your company’s profile, enticing new customers and staff who will perceive your brand to be a key player in its market.

Attract The Best Talent

Finally, no one wants to work in unsavoury conditions, so investing in your workplace environment can be a magnet for new talented staff. There are many ways to do this, from creating an ethical environmentally friendly workshop to developing an ergonomic workspace that encourages collaboration and creativity – two vital components of modern manufacturing. By investing in your working environment, you can increase staff satisfaction, retention, and make your business more attractive to new talent.

Investing in your manufacturing company can require a leap of faith, so focusing on the long-term benefits will add greater confidence to your decision-making and ensure your profits are invested wisely. For more information please get in touch today.