News: Macalloy secure Troja Bridge contract

Rotherham construction experts, Macalloy, will provide their innovative systems to the Troja Bridge project in the Czech Republic, the world's first long span network arch bridge.

Based in Dinnington, Macalloy are world leaders in design, manufacture and supply of threaded bar and cable systems to engineering and construction projects across the globe.

The £29m Troja Bridge will span the River Vltava using the innovative network arch method that is dramatically stronger than more traditional bridge designs.

Conventional bowstring arch designs use vertical hangers to stiffen the structure but on the Troja Bridge the hangers are arranged diagonally, creating a criss-cross "network".

The design has been pioneered by engineering group, Mott MacDonald, and means that 40% less materials are needed. Without the cable network, the crown of the arch would have to stand more than 50m above the deck. With the network, that height reduces to 20m.

Peter Hoy, managing director of Macalloy, said: "Throughout Europe we see a lot of the bowstring bridge designs and are able to supply the finished suspension bars ready for installation and tensioning on the bridges in question.

"This is a first for the network arch design. Efficiencies in this method of configuration of the arch and the way the bridge works are driving further efficiencies in the construction process."

The 200 metre bridge is currently under construction and is a key crossing for the important Prague ring road. It will carry a four lane dual carriageway and twin tram tracks along with pedestrian and cycle paths. It has a welded steel box section arch and post-tensioned, reinforced concrete tie beams.

Ovako has won the contract to supply Macalloy with structural steel. Peter Hoy, added: "We have been working on securing this order for some time. Liaising closely with Ovako on the technical specification, material grade, size requirements and scheduling of deliveries, all of which are critical to the success of such a project."

Supply of the material has commenced from Ovako's plant in Sweden to Macalloy in Rotherham where the bars, which range from two metres to 12 metres depending on their location on the structure, are trued, an exact thread is applied over the diameter and a protective finish is added. They are then shipped to Macalloy's distributor, Tension Systems in the Czech republic, who are carrying out the installation.

Macalloy website

Images: Mott MacDonald

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News: Rotherham businesses celebrate Being Better

The BeingBetter business support project is drawing to a close after two and a half years.

Created by Rotherham Council and funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Yorkshire Forward, the project was introduced to help local employers to enhance their economic performance and staff retention, by improving the health and financial well-being of their employees.

Over the past two years, the BeingBetter project, managed by Nicholas Associates (part of Stafforce in Rotherham) has helped 151 retail businesses, 68 in the health and social care sector, 26 in hospitality, 13 in engineering and manufacturing, plus five construction companies. Overall it has seen huge success, in creating 32 new jobs, safeguarded over 162 job roles and supporting 262 local businesses.

One company in particular which has seen financial growth, thanks to the project, is The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop based in the Imperial buildings in Rotherham town centre, which is run by Kara and Tony Chapman. Kara Chapman said: "The BeingBetter team has been fantastic, with the contacts they have helped us make – our weekly turnover has increased and our business is going from strength to strength!"

The project has also assisted employers in removing barriers to employment, such as transport issues, lack of skills to a specific job role and unhealthy lifestyles, as well as helping to make employees feel more valued within their job.

Tim Yates, manager at Whiston Hall Residential Care Home, said: "I wanted to give my staff something to make them feel valued but couldn't do it in monetary terms.

"Support delivered through BeingBetter has made my staff feel more appreciated as well as helping me find some excellent additional resources."

The project has involved a network of local partners and specialists, including HMRC, NHS Health Trainers, The Source, Rotherham Barnsley Chamber of Commerce and local gyms, to help businesses to make small changes that can make a big difference.

Although the project itself has drawn to a close, Rotherham businesses can still gain support through Stafforce, as well as the partner organisations involved in the project, in order to support health and wellbeing.

Paul Brammer, director of services for Stafforce said: "As a business, we will be building on what we have learned in order to benefit our wider client portfolio beyond the local area. This has been a hugely influential and worthwhile project, with impressive results delivered in terms of jobs created and safeguarded."

BeingBetter website

Stafforce website

Images: Stafforce

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News: Johnston Press set to move more print to Rotherham

Johnston Press, one of the largest local newspaper publishers in the UK, is set to transfer printing from Sunderland to Rotherham, from the end of October.

An article in their own paper, the Sunderland Echo stated that: "Closing the press hall will end nearly 140 years of the Echo being printed in Sunderland.

"A total of 81 people are set to lose their jobs. A number of journalists are also set to lose their jobs as subediting roles are moved."

In 2007, the publisher of titles such as the Yorkshire Post and The Star, opened a £60m printing facility on the site of the former Dinnington Colliery in Rotherham. It includes state-of-the-art facilities including one of the most modern and fastest presses in the world. It has the capacity to print 192 pages in full colour, 120,000 newspapers an hour in full colour and 75 titles per week.

The latest move follows news in February that production of the Yorkshire Post would move to Rotherham and out of Leeds where it has been printed for 250 years.

David Crow, operating manager of Group Services at Johnston Press, said: "A strategic review has been undertaken of the Johnston Press print capacity. As a result of this review it is proposed to close Sunderland Web and transfer the majority of printing to Sheffield Web [at Dinnington], with some external contract print support.

"Should the proposal proceed, staff currently employed within the Sunderland Web will transfer via TUPE legislation, to Sheffield Web at the end of October."

Consultations are now underway.

Johnston Press would then be reduced to two major print facilities, one in Rotherham and the other in Portsmouth.

Johnston Press website

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News: Portas pot to provide financial support for Rotherham retailers

Retailers in Rotherham town centre who show the potential to grow and develop look set to access new financial support through the "Portas pilot" scheme.

Further details have been agreed that will see the £200,000 pot used to support current retailers with grants of up to £7,500 to help them undertake significant business development projects.

The council hope that this will enable eligible businesses to increase sales through expanding or improving their product offer, help with expansion or relocation plans that will be sustainable for the business in the longer term and allow for investments that will maintain sales to sustain businesses in profit.

It is hoped that 70 existing retailers will benefit from the new investment.

The project adds to the successful business vitality grants scheme that provides financial support to encourage new independent niche retail businesses to open up in the town centre.

The vitality grants also aim to reduce the number of vacant shops and grant support has been provided to 12 new businesses, with another approved by the council's cabinet member for regeneration and development last week.

The new Portas Pilot project, which combines funding secured in a competition from the government with match funding from British Land, is also set to be used to subsidise the cost of customer service training and bespoke, specialist advice on marketing strategies for eligible retailers.

In addition, grants of up to £1,000 are made available to retailers to carry out marketing activity.

Leading retail marketing consultant, Mary Portas, was impressed by Rotherham on a visit last year as she compiled her review of the High Street on behalf of the government. At the time she said: "I have seen a lot of new traders and they have been grateful to Rotherham Council for actually getting behind them. To bring new retailers back into town requires financial support, management support and business support, which I found quite inspiring."

Tim O'Connell, head of business and retail investment, said: "The Portas Pilot bid aimed to complement the support to new independents with a package of assistance targeted at existing retailers.

"The bid built on the "shop local" concept and emphasised the opportunity to build on an offer that was distinct - niche independent retailers with strength in personalised service, the "social experience and interaction" of shopping and value for money."

Mr O'Connell spoke positively about the project and the different retail offer that is being created in Rotherham town centre at a recent property forum organised by Rotherham Investment & Development Office (RiDO) and held at the New York Stadium.

He also discussed the regeneration possibilities in the town centre created by the new 110,000 sq ft Tesco Extra store that is set to open in 2014. Key projects will include ensuring that the adjacent markets benefit from the Tesco development, potentially through a redevelopment programme and the potential cinema-led redevelopment on Forge Island after Tesco move across town.

It was also revealed that Rotherham is the only town centre with a positive year on year increase in footfall for the last 15 months, from June 2011 to August 2012.

Rotherham Town Centre website

Images: RMBC

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News: Xeros could treble Rotherham workforce

Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg recently toured Xeros' facility at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham to see their "virtually waterless" washing machine.

The Leeds University spin-out has developed a patented system using a unique method of special polymer beads rather than the usual large amounts of fresh water to clean clothes. Instead a small amount of water is added to loosen clothing stains and activate the beads.

The deputy PM joined Xeros senior executives in celebrating the company's first commercial sale in the UK - to high street laundry chain, Johnsons.

Nick Clegg said: "It takes your breath away. It is such a simple idea, but it is so revolutionary. It could save billions and billions of litres of water over time. The implications are profound in terms of water and energy use.

"This is a great example of what we want to see happening in the British economy. It was academics that first came up with the idea and it has been translated, partly thanks to support from the government and private investors, into something that hopefully make its way into the shops fairly soon."

John Samuel, chairman at Xeros outlined the firm's growth from a small start-up four years ago to a blossoming enterprise, which employs twenty scientists, engineers and support staff in Rotherham and three people in the USA.

Recently recruited employees include Mayki Xiao and Ana Tellechea Lopez who graduated from the University of Sheffield with Masters in Materials Science & Engineering and Engineering Materials, respectively.

Xeros could triple its workforce in South Yorkshire over the next two-to-three years.

Bill Westwater, chief executive of Xeros, said: "We were delighted to welcome Nick Clegg to our facility here at the Advanced Manufacturing Park. It was clear that we impressed him with our technology and the growth of our business, which generates and supports employment within the region."

The company is also working on a domestic version of the revolutionary cleaning system. Their tests show that if all UK households were fitted with machines powered by Xeros technology, the potential savings to UK consumers would total more than £2 billion per annum. It would also represent a net reduction of 4.2 million tonnes of CO2 per annum, the equivalent of taking 1.4 million cars off UK roads.

Xeros website

Images: Xeros

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News: Inditherm sees significant interest, expects reasonable growth

Innovative Rotherham company, Inditherm, has seen significant interest being shown by NHS hospitals in its patient warming systems, although the bulk of this is yet to translate into orders.

The interest follows the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), the UK government's regulatory authority, issuing guidance last year that supports the use of Inditherm patient warming systems for patients undergoing operations which carry risk of inadvertent hypothermia.

Inditherm systems use low voltage carbon polymer technology to provide heat.

In their latest financial results, the AIM-listed Manvers firm reported that revenue was flat at £812k for the six months ended June 30 2012. For the same period in 2011 revenue was £817k.

The loss on ordinary activities before taxation held at £73k.

Inditherm now focuses on the medical sector with systems used in operating rooms and to help prevent hypothermia in new born babies.

Trading levels in the medical business in the first quarter of 2012 contuniued on a positive trend but protracted decision making and uncertainty in the NHS, combined with a slow start to the year in export markets, led to a fall in medical turnover in the second quarter.

The report stated that: "Following the NICE recommendations we have seen significant interest being shown by NHS hospitals although the bulk of this is yet to translate into orders, with only a few prospects already converted. The level of uncertainty gives cause for us to exercise caution in our forecasting."

Orders from overseas distributors (excluding the USA) were down by 5% at the end of June compared to the same period in 2011.

Looking ahead, Mark Abrahams, chairman of Inditherm, said: "We expect to show reasonable growth in the UK market this year following the stimulation provided by the NICE guidance, however we are less confident of growth in the export sector.

"Overall, we continue to believe in the growth potential in this business, albeit we recognise that there will be a slowdown of growth this year."

Inditherm website

Images: Inditherm

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News: Rolls-Royce rely on Rotherham research

World-renowned engineers, Rolls-Royce, will use manufacturing processes developed and refined at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham at their latest UK facility.

Construction of its new advanced aerospace disc manufacturing facility in Tyne and Wear began with a groundbreaking ceremony conducted by Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable MP.

Fan Discs and Turbine Discs are at the heart of the engine, operating at high stress in extreme conditions providing the engine's thrust. They provide the power for a wide range of aircraft including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the Airbus A380 and the Eurofighter Typhoon.

The manufacturing techniques which will be used at the facility have been developed at the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing, at the AMP in Rotherham. Working with Rolls-Royce engineers, the AMRC specialists helped to significantly reduce the machining time of the turbine discs. This has led to major efficiency savings and made it worthwhile to retain the production within the UK.

Alain Michaelis, deputy chief operating officer and president of the gas turbine supply chain at Rolls-Royce, said: "We are pleased to begin construction on this important new facility which will use some of the most advanced manufacturing techniques to produce high-tech aero engine components to power the most advanced aircraft operating today.

"Rolls-Royce continues to invest for future growth. In the last five years we have invested over £950 million in the UK in new and existing facilities to ensure we maintain our competitive edge."

Rolls-Royce will manufacture crystal turbine blades at their new facility currently under construction in Rotherham.

The North East-made turbine discs will hold the Rotherham-made blades in the hottest part of the engine where the operating conditions are at their most severe. This requires use of some of the strongest materials available, made from refined powders specially processed and machined to the accuracy of a fraction of the thickness of a human hair.

The blades each generate the power of a Formula One car and operate in temperatures several hundred degrees above their melting point. They are cooled by air ducted through the discs and use heat resistant coatings.

Rolls-Royce website

Images: Rolls-Royce

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News: Moller UK opens Rotherham facility

With the official opening of their new UK headquarters in Rotherham, the German engineering company, Moller Group, has announced a significant investment and expansion plan for their subsidiary, Moller UK.

Moller UK was established in 2006 and has since grown in status within the UK industrial sector for refractory installation and technical advice. In 2011 the director of Moller UK Limited, Ralf Pflesser decided to relocate to Rotherham which is central to existing clients and partners.

A new office and warehouse on the Eastwood Trading Estate will facilitate further expansion plans to incorporate the manufacturing of precast refractory shapes for the cement, lime, biomass, sugar and particle board industries.

The intention is to become the leading company in the refractory market in the UK in the next five years as Ralf Pflesser, director of Moller UK, explains: "The Moller Group, which is still a family owned company, is always looking to built up long term partnerships - on the one hand with clients, but also with suppliers and partners on the other hand. That is the basis for the success and the 50 years of experience we have in Germany."

The first step is to employ a small local installation crew of six to seven refractory specialists at their ultra-modern 500 sq m warehouse in Rotherham.

Klaus Roepke, CEO of the Moller Group, said: "We are willing to invest to give our customers the best possible support.

"With the experience and the power of the Moller Group in the background we are able to offer complete packages including planning, delivery and construction of new installations or repairs and refurbishment to existing linings."

Moller Group website

Images: Moller Group

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News: Elevation see rise in demand for engineers

Rotherham based specialists, Elevation Recruitment, has reported a substantial increase in demand from local businesses within the region hoping to take on a number of qualified engineering professionals this year.

In last month's Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) National Barometer, 31% of respondents said that they are looking to create new jobs with 58% reporting an increase in orders and 55% anticipating a further upturn between now and the end of the year.

John Bohan, Director of Engineering & Manufacturing recruitment at Elevation, said: "From an employment perspective, now is a very critical time for the economy.

"Over the past five years we’ve seen few engineering firms looking to take on new recruits, with many instead choosing to strip down their work force to the bare minimum in an effort to ride out the economic crisis.

"The change we are now seeing from within the industry is hopefully an indication of things to come, not only on a national level, but also for local independent firms here in South Yorkshire, which have been hit hardest by the recession in the past few years."

Part of the Horbury Group, Elevation was founded in 2010. They launched a specialist Engineering and Manufacturing Division in May this year, following positive signs of economic growth within the sector and the region's increased demand for operational and technical staff.

Elevation Recruitment website

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News: Maltby waits on results of mining investigations

Investigations into the mining of a new coal face at Maltby Colliery in Rotherham are continuing but the owners, Hargreaves Services, is warning that it may have to close if significant geological problems cannot be overcome.

Maltby occupies a site of 500 acres and employs over 500 staff and contractors. It is the last coking coal mine left in the UK and produces both high quality coking coal and power station coal. The colliery produces more than 1 million tonnes of coal per year.

Hargreaves invested millions in work to mine a new panel, called T125, where coal is expected to be approximately 25% thicker. However conditions never before encountered at the 100 year old mine meant that further development was abandoned.

The delay will result in a gap in production between the current seam finishing in October and work on the new seam starting, estimated at around 15 weeks, which could have an impact on the group's profit in the year ending May 31 2013 of between £12m and £16m.

In their preliminary report, the group reported that gas issues are still being encountered, causing delays, and that mining experts are reviewing the plans and performing additional investigative work to ensure that "there is a plan that satisfactorily addresses both the health and safety risks and the financial risks this may cause."

The outcome of this comprehensive review will be known by the end of October but if the T125 panel cannot be mined then Maltby Colliery may have to be mothballed.

Tim Ross, chairman of Hargreaves Services, said: "In the last few weeks we have become more concerned about the risks of working in the area of the T125 panel.

"As we develop the face line the experts are learning more about the features of the strata and risks these pose to the completion of development and the subsequent production from the panel.

"The panel T125 is a very attractive panel and we hope that concerns over gas levels do not prevent us from being able to continue to its production."

Gordon Banham, group chief executive at Hargreaves, added: "Along with the board I am unequivocal in my view that, should the presence of gas, water and oil in the vicinity of the panel put our employees at risk, in the opinion of our own management or the external consultants, we will not attempt to mine the T125 panel.

"We anticipate that the abandonment of the T125 panel would lead to the mothballing or even closure of the mine as it would probably be uneconomic to switch production to a later panel due to the long face gap entailed.

"We believe that prevarication on these types of issues, especially in the context of deep mines, can bring unacceptable levels of risk to employees, avoidable financial losses and destruction of shareholder value, none of which we will countenance.

"The closure or mothballing of Maltby would obviously be a disappointing development for the management and employees."

When Hargreaves acquired the site in 2007 for £21.5m, they intended to keep the colliery open to 2015 and this end date was subsequently extended to 2017.

Feasibility studies then extended the mine's life to 2025 at current output levels.

For the year ending May 31 2012, production has improved on the current seam at Maltby with the total saleable production increasing by 111k tonnes from 1,517k tonnes to 1,628k tonnes. The implementation of a fifth shift helped to increase underground production year on year.

In addition to supplying Drax power station, coal sales from Maltby outside of the division generated £60.3m of revenue compared to £53.1m in the previous year.

Overall, Hargreaves Services reported pre-tax profits of £43.1m for the year, up 16.8% on the previous year. Turnover increased 24.6% to £688.3m.

Hargreaves Services website

Images: Hargreaves Services

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News: UK Steel Enterprise continues support for Rotherham entrepreneurs

Saxon Garage Doors has launched in Rotherham with help from UK Steel Enterprise's Kickstart Fund.

Craig Cullumbine specialises in fast response garage door repairs and servicing and says that it is his customer-first attitude that has seen his client base expand from South Yorkshire to Newcastle and Peterborough.

He said: "When people call me the first thing they ask is, how soon can you do the job? My reply is always – within a week, unless it's an unusual job. I'm currently developing a specialism in same day repairs for local clients as they don't want to be waiting a week next Thursday to get the garage door fixed.

"It's responding to customer needs that can set a new business apart from the competition and it's a plan I intend to stick with. I have seen poor service in the past and I just think that customers deserve better."

Craig received funding from UK Steel Enterprise's Kickstart fund to help him launch Saxon Garage Doors after he had spent several years working in the sector. He used the cash to pay for his promotional campaign, including the livery on his van.

UK Steel Enterprise is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Steel. Its Kickstart Fund provides grants of up to £500 to start-up businesses to purchase essential equipment and or services that can get them trading. Its main investment fund provides business finance in amounts from £25,000 up to £750,000 to companies in South Yorkshire and other areas affected by changes in the steel industry.

Craig says that if it was not for the funding from UK Steel Enterprise it would have been so much harder to start up the new business: "The cash from UK Steel really took a lot of the stress out and made it possible to start trading. It's surprising how all the little bits you need add up to quite a bit of money, so I'm really grateful for the help UK Steel gave me."

Allan Wood, regional executive for UK Steel Enterprise, added: "Craig very quickly grasped that it is focussing on customer needs that keeps you in business. The fact that he is now developing niche services based on that principle bodes well for the future and we expect him to become an example to follow for other start-up businesses in Rotherham and South Yorkshire."

UK Steel Enterprise has set aside finance from its Kickstart Fund to target 30 young people in Rotherham with small scale funding that can make all the difference when it comes to starting a new business.

The Kickstart Fund makes grants of up to £500 to pay for essential equipment or materials to people looking to launch a new business or those that are in the early stages of trading.

UK Steel Enterprise website

Images: UK Steel Enterprise

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News: Pyronix profits from staff loyalty

Over half of the staff at Pyronix have been with the award winning Rotherham company for over ten years.

At a recent annual event this summer Pyronix had 19 members of staff celebrating either ten or 20 years' service.

Julie Kenny CBE DL, founder and chief executive of Pyronix, said: "Since we started this company in 1986, we have tried hard to maintain a family ethos in the company, although with significant growth maintaining that atmosphere becomes increasingly difficult. However, at times like these, when I look around at my colleagues and friends who have supported the company through thick and thin – I am so proud that so many people have stayed with us for such a long time."

Julie founded Pyronix in 1986 and is Chairman, CEO and majority shareholder of its parent company Secure Holdings Ltd.

Based in Hellaby, Pyronix manufactures an extensive range of electronic security equipment for intruder alarms. Right from the start, there was keen focus on innovation and quality that enabled the company to obtain an initial toehold in the market place. The company now exports more than 50% of its annual turnover to 96 countries around the world.

They enjoyed a turnover of £13.3m in 2011 and profits of £4.8m.

Pyronix's Enforcer System was recently shortlisted for the prestigious Security Excellence Awards. Launched last year it was a world-first fully two way wireless alarm system incorporating a transmitter and a receiver in each wireless device. The wireless technology is a vital part of the system that keeps it reliable and provides a major advantage to the installer and user.

Pyronix website

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News: Sterecycle goes into administration

Clean technology company, Sterecycle, which has a pioneering waste processing plant in Rotherham, has gone into administration.

The company, which was recently valued at £56m, uses a patented steam processing method called autoclaving to "pressure cook" household and commercial black-bag waste. The Rotherham plant recovers waste in the form of recyclables and a biomass rich soil like substance called "Sterefibre" which has a number of uses.

The Templeborough site has been operational since August 2008 and employs 70 local people. It is as a blueprint for a future roll out of waste processing sites around the country. The site also processes 70,000 tonnes of municipal waste from the councils in Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham.

Sterecycle announced the appointment of Guy Hollander and Mike Wellard of Mazars LLP as administrators earlier this week.

The board concluded that it was due to "a significant downturn in trading results following a substantial fall in global recyclate prices."

The firm had also been stockpiling Sterefibre, which can be used as a biomass fuel and in agriculture, at a quarry in Doncaster.

A delayed deal was also being being put in place between Sterecycle and Spara Acquisition One Corporation, a fledgling company trading on Canada's TSX Venture exchange. A takeover would have enabled Sterecycle to trade on the Canadian exchange and raise funds through the sale of shares.

The deal is now off.

Tom Shields, CEO at Sterecycle, said: "It is with great sadness that the Board has today reluctantly decided to call in an administrator having explored all practical options to continue trading with the company in its present form. I would thank all those who have supported the company through this difficult time."

The world's first commercial scale autoclave plant grew in terms of capacity and job numbers. It has impressed royals, government ministers and investors.

In contrast, the operation was constantly working to overcome odour issues and suffered a fatality when a waste incinerator exploded in January 2011.

In December of 2011, Sterecycle secured £5.1m of investment to expand the waste processing capacity at the plant.

The funding package included a £1.25m investment from the Finance Yorkshire Equity Fund. A second new investor, German businessman Lars Windhorst, and existing investors including Aston Hill Financial from Canada contributed the remaining £3.85m.

The aim was to increase capacity to 170,000 tonnes of unsorted black-bag waste from local households and businesses and for around 80 - 90% of typical household waste to be recycled and recovered. The site also had planning permission for an energy from waste facility. A new 48-tonne capacity autoclave went into full production In April.



Sterecycle website

Images: Sterecycle

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News: TWI causes a stir in the world of welding steel

Pioneering work by experts at The Welding Institute (TWI) in Rotherham is set to improve the steel manufacturing industry, in the same way that it has for manufacturers pioneering their technique with aluminium.

TWI is one of the world's foremost independent research and technology organisations, with expertise in solving problems in all aspects of manufacturing, fabrication and whole-life integrity management technologies.

The Cambridge organisation has a Technology Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham where experts provide technical support in joining and technologies such as material science, structural integrity, NDT, surfacing, electronic packaging and cutting.

Friction stir welding was initially invented by TWI for welding aluminium and has quickly become the process of choice for world-leading manufacturers such as Boeing, for the fabrication of strong, stiff, lightweight aluminium structures.

Following its widespread acceptance by the aerospace, shipbuilding, train making and automotive industries for manufacturing aluminium structures, TWI is developing the process for application to steel.

The work undertaken at TWI Technology Centre on the AMP has shown that welds in steel made by friction stir welding have considerably better mechanical properties than those made by conventional arc welding. This means that steel structures have improved toughness and can last longer. The lack of melting also means that less heat is used, reducing distortion in the welded structures.

Stephen Cater, a researcher at the TWI Technology Centre on the AMP, recently presented ground-breaking results on friction stir welding of steel at an international conference in Chicago. He said: "The results just published show that for 6mm thick, high strength shipbuilding steel, friction stir welding reduces distortion along the length of a 2m welded plate from 115mm to 15mm while tripling weld toughness and increasing fatigue life compared to submerged arc welding.

"As up to 40% of the costs of building a ship are associated with correcting distortion of welded plates, this new technique has potential to introduce considerable cost savings during manufacture."

The technique is not just for improving shipbuilding, it was recently used in a joint project involving the art and design sector of Sheffield Hallam University. The work involves a novel method for producing mixed metal multi-coloured layered materials using friction stir welding and compares the results with the ancient Far Eastern art of Mokume Gane.

Mokume Gane is a unique process involving sheets of different coloured metal alloys bonded together. Materials from a number of different metals including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, copper and brass have been created using the new welding process.

Stephen added: "The visual effect is stunning, whether it be with the noble metals of silver and gold, or the industrially popular materials of brass and copper. Early on in the development of friction stir the process was identified as ideally suited for joining dissimilar materials.

"Using these multi-coloured layers in the process has given TWI a unique insight into how the material flows around the friction stir tool and has thereby enhanced TWI's tool design capability."

TWI website

Images: TWI

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News: EMS launches new voltage optimisation system

Rotherham-based manufacturing company EMS (UK) Ltd, has added a new product to its Powerstar range of voltage optimisation systems.

Powerstar uses a patented design, which can actively reduce electrical energy consumption by an average of 12-15% of consumed electricity.

The Powerstar system is the only voltage optimisation system wholly designed and manufactured in the UK and works by reducing the the voltage supplied by the National Grid.

At a recent manufacturing sustainability conference, the Templeborough firm launched Powerstar HV MAX, which uses a low-loss amorphous core HV transformer combined with its optimisation system.

Older transformers have high levels of standing losses and the majority of modern transformers used on commercial sites use Cold Rolled Grain Oriented steel (CRGO) within their core, which still provide significant losses for buildings in comparison to amorphous steel.

Dr Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMSc (UK) Ltd, said: "Powerstar HV MAX can be used to replace older transformers on existing sites, or be included in new build projects in order to provide the optimum voltage output for the site. This will not only reduce standing losses by around 75%, but will also lower electricity costs by reducing on-site energy consumption."

The company is hoping for interest from new build developers and the system is ideal for sites with secure data and critical operations such as office buildings, hotels, hospitals, supermarkets and education facilities.

A typical payback period for installing the system is less than five years.

EMS website

Images: EMS

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News: Royal visit for HEROtsc in Rotherham

The Duke of York, KG will visit the Rotherham operation of HEROtsc tomorrow and learn more of the philosophies and innovative training programmes that have seen staff numbers at the contact centre nearly treble in the past eight years.

His Royal Highness is visiting following an invitation extended by Sunil Kant Munjal, HEROtsc Chairman, during The Duke of York's Diamond Jubilee visit to India in May 2012.

When HEROtsc took over the former T-Mobile site at Manvers in 2004, staff numbers had dwindled to less than 300. Today the thriving Dearne Valley centre has over 830 employees working for leading trade names such as Vodafone, E.ON and Office Depot – with an ongoing recruitment and training programme to bring new jobs to the area.

David Turner, Chief Executive Officer of HEROtsc, who will escort His Royal Highness around the site, said: "We are well aware of our importance to the community and are delighted that has been recognised by The Duke of York.

"In difficult economic times, we have managed to grow our business, from long-term strategic partnerships with blue chip clients and bring vital jobs here and across other areas of the UK.

"A large percentage of that recruitment is among 16 to 24 year olds, where there is great concern nationwide at the high level of unemployment in that age group.

"His Royal Highness is particularly interested in all aspects of youth training and employment and during his visit he will meet our Head of Youth Employability and be given an overview of our in-house training programme – our Customer Excellence Academy.

"The Duke of York will meet a cross-section of our staff - from senior managers to recent recruits and, I hope, be impressed by the can-do attitude and professionalism of all.

"I am confident that His Royal Highness will find his visit here both interesting and enlightening. We are proud of our achievements here – and determined to keep on the front foot."

Telecom Service Centres (TSC), one of Scotland's fastest-growing contact centre companies, was acquired in a £40m deal by Indian counterpart Hero Ites (part of the Hero Group) in 2007.

HEROtsc website

Images: herotsc.co.uk

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News: MTL Group secures further orders

Rotherham-based project manufacturing specialist, MTL Group, has secured further orders for its IMPAS perforated Armour system.

The "significant" orders followed a successful showing at the recent Eurosatory 2012 in Paris, the largest exhibition of land defence and security in the world.

MTL's state of the art armour plating system, IMPAS, which stands for Interchangeable Modular Perforated Armour System, will be supplied in kit form for the customer to fit directly onto its vehicle.

Simon Hurst, sales manager for defence at MTL Group, said: "Our customer gave us the challenge to design and produce the kits in a very short period of time to a tight weight and cost budget to satisfy an urgent requirement, due to our large scale production facility and flexible work force we was able to assist the customer and completed the project in time."

The Brinsworth firm stocks and processes in excess of 10,000 tonnes of quenched and tempered steels per year, and is one of the largest stockists and suppliers of armour plate in Europe. They also specialise in blast floors and ballistic armour.

They also offer a specialist added value engineering service for the defence sector where a dedicated team at MTL come together at the design stages, reviewing the customers design and look at alternative processing methods to reduce weight, cost and increase the protection levels.

MTL uses state of the art equipment at their 300,000 sq ft modern manufacturing facility, including the world's largest robot press and robot welding to ensure consistent quality and volume achievement.

One recent project saw an armoured vehicle manufacturer's 8x8 vehicle floor completely redesigned from an original 11 piece fabrication to a one piece pressed component. Developments have also been made on forming thick armoured grade aluminium into "V" shaped sections for blast protection applications.

MTL Group website

Images: eurosatory.com/

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News: Inter Currency Payments look for investment via tax relief scheme

Inter Currency Payments is preparing to launch a share placement using a Crowd Funding platform after the Rotherham company was approved under the government's Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SIES).

Established by enterprising former students of Sheffield Hallam University, Inter Currency Payments, is a foreign exchange broker and money transmitter, based in RiDO's Fusion @ Magna Business Centre in Rotherham.

The main aim of the company is to lower the costs of foreign exchange and money transmission for companies based within the Sheffield city region that are either paying above the odds to the high street banks or have not yet developed an export strategy for their firms.

Inter Currency Payments has been approved for the SEIS scheme and is currently in talks with two of the leading Crowd Funding platforms in the UK to raise approximately £55,000 in new capital to help finance its growth.

SEIS provides income tax relief of 50% for individuals who invest in shares in qualifying companies and in addition, the government will offer a capital gains tax holiday for investments made into the new scheme.

Richard O'Brien, founder of Inter Currency Payments, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for us to raise additional capital so that we are able to grow the company rapidly over the next few years and really support our regions manufacturers and exporters. We have been discussing a share placement with two of the UK's leading Crowd Funding platforms and have also received approaches from angel investors and private individuals which we are considering.

"This share placement will allow us to raise money despite the continuing banking crisis so that we are able to invest in our services and recruit new staff. The SEIS approval is also fantastic news for new investors who can make a big tax saving through the scheme."

The enterprise is the only independent dedicated foreign exchange broker in Yorkshire and has recently received confirmation that it has been approved by both HM Revenue & Customs and the Financial Services Authority.

Inter Currency Payments website

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News: Xeros looks to clean up in America

Xeros Ltd, an innovative cleantech company based in Rotherham, has set its sights on the North American commercial laundry industry, starting in New England.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the Leeds University spin-out has developed a "virtually waterless washing machine" using a unique method of special polymer beads rather than the usual large amounts of fresh water to clean clothes. Instead a small amount of water is added to loosen clothing stains and activate the beads.

Xeros' patented technology has been developed over the past 30 years by textile chemistry professor Stephen Burkinshaw at the University of Leeds. The Xeros system has now been installed at a first site in America, at Sterling Linen Services, a high-quality linen processing and rental service for area hotels, hospitals and restaurants, in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Xeros is expecting further interest with an official roll-out at the 2013 Clean Show in New Orleans to the commercial laundry marketplace and a household sized machine in development for launch in 2014.

Bill Westwater, CEO of Xeros Ltd, said: "Our scientific breakthrough in the UK combined with forward-thinking US entrepreneurs is a great example of how our two countries can come together to lessen laundry's carbon footprint."

Used within a special washing machine also invented by Xeros, garments are tumbled gently in the beads. They suck dirt off the clothes by absorbing it into their molecular structure. The Xeros beads work for hundreds of washes and at the end of their cleaning life they can be recycled.

The system, which uses up to 90% less water than traditional washing machines, already has the backing of U.S.-based GreenEarth Cleaning, the world's largest dry cleaning brand.

Tim Maxwell, president of GreenEarth Cleaning, said: "We had the honour of previewing this exciting new technology to many of our 800 U.S. dry cleaning affiliates over the past two years. We believe Xeros will be embraced by our industry because of the significant cost savings and environmental benefits it brings."

Backed by funding from investors and research grants, the work on a washing system of comparable size, appearance and cost to conventional front loading machines that are used in millions of homes across the country is producing results. When compared to these machines, independent analysis by URS has estimated that a Xeros domestic system would slash energy use by half and reduce water consumption by up to 80 per cent. It would also cut CO2 emissions per wash by 25 per cent.

Xeros Ltd website

Images: Xeros Ltd

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News: MacDonald confirmed as Master Cutler

Neil MacDonald, a director at leading Rotherham firms, has been elected as the new Master Cutler by the members of the Company of Cutlers in Sheffield.

The company dates back to 1624 and the Master Cutler role is seen as an ambassador representing the industries of the Sheffield region, both nationally and internationally.

Neil MacDonald is the current group finance director of award-winning Rotherham manufacturer, AESSEAL. He was installed when investors, 3i increased their stake in the Templeborough firm to 40% in 2007.

Gordon Bridge, former chief executive and current director at AESSEAL was Master Cutler in 2008.

Neil, who studied at the University of Sheffield, is also a non executive director of the expanding Rotherham-based construction specialist, Horbury Group and a director at e-procurement specialists, In-tend, based in Moorgate Crofts.

He still chairs the Firth Rixson pension fund, having worked there for 20 years, is vice chairman of Sheffield Theatres and is on the boards of the Children's Hospital, the Cathedral Archer Project and the Whirlow Hall Farm Trust.

Neil MacDonald, Master Cutler elect, said: "It is a huge honour to be elected Master Cutler and I take on this role at a very positive time in the company's history.

"We have long term strategies in place and strong links with the council, the chambers, the universities, the LEP and other organisations which support and promote manufacturing. The future is looking very good and I am delighted to be part of it."

MacDonald is set to be installed on October 2, replacing Pam Liversidge OBE, the first female Cutler in the company's history.

Cutlers Company website

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News: Core funding for LEP

The Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP) has secured a share of core funding from the government to drive forward their growth priorities.

LEPs are the government's new model to promote economic development. With boards led by the private sector, they provide the strategic leadership required to set out local economic priorities, and better reflect the natural economic geography of the areas they serve.

An interim £5m funding package will be made available immediately for all LEPs to draw upon for the remainder of this financial year, around £125,000 each.

For 2013/14 and 2014/15, matched funding will be offered of up to £250,000 per LEP per annum. LEPs wishing to utilise this funding will be required to source match funding of equal value.

Business and Enterprise Minister Michael Fallon, said: "It is crucial we arm Local Enterprise Partnerships with the tools and resources they need to play a prominent role in delivering growth and jobs for their communities. This funding will help LEPs plan for the long term and ensure they can remain locally-led instead of dependent on central government support."

James Newman, Chairman of the Sheffield City Region LEP, said: "Today's Government announcement about LEP funding is good news for the Sheffield City Region's economic growth and employment prospects.

"Although this is only a relatively small amount, this funding will give our LEP the resources it needs to develop its strategy which is based on local priority sectors of high economic growth and job creation potential.

"Now that the Coalition has acknowledged the need for this support, I hope that they release the funds without too much delay, so we can concentrate our efforts on stimulating economic growth.

"We hope that this won't be the only piece of good news from Whitehall this Autumn, as we await the outcome of our RGF bid, which has the potential to give our economy a huge boost by unlocking millions in direct business investment and creating hundreds of new private sector jobs."

Sheffield City Region LEP website

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News: AESSEAL launches apprenticeship scheme at Rotherham HQ

Award-winning Rotherham manufacturer, AESSEAL is investing at least £1.25m in its own apprenticeship programme.

AESSEAL is the world's fourth largest mechanical seal business and supplies oil, chemical, gas, mining, water and other industries. Over the coming five years the company will train at least 30, predominantly young, men and women. Ten are already on board. The programme was officially launched by Rotherham MP, Denis MacShane last week at AESSEAL's Templeborough Headquarters.

Mr MacShane urged Rotherham firms to copy the apprenticeship scheme set up by AESSEAL and start to train a new generation of school leavers for the 21st century economy. He said: "I would like to see every Rotherham firm above the smallest level organising an apprenticeship scheme. In fact, we need an AESSEAL type revolution across the nation, a complete recasting of our labour market so that investment in skills becomes the norm."

One of the largest investments the company has made in a long time, the apprenticeship scheme will improve the demography of the ageing workforce. But more than that, the initiative is about the ethos of AESSEAL and creating home-grown talent which will act as a showcase for the renaissance of manufacturing.

As testament to their deep commitment to apprenticeships, AESSEAL has differentiated its initiative by developing a two year off-the-job programme with experts at the Brinsworth Academy of Engineering, fully accepting that there will be no measurable productive return from the apprentices during this period.

Also at the launch, Denis Healy, business development manager of IMechE, welcomed the initiative and presented a certificate of accreditation from the professional engineering institution.

AESSEAL believes that competition for experienced engineers means it must grow its own.

"That means we can also instil in them AESSEAL's core values," said Richard Cook, production and personnel director (pictured, above right with apprentice Michael Talbot), "especially the all-encompassing ethos of giving customers such exceptional service, from product quality to after-care, that they need never look for an alternative source of supply."

The company knows that investment in well-trained employees gives lucrative payback over time through increased efficiency and innovation. But it also insists on a clear, legally-binding agreement those undertaking higher education are expected to sign – anyone leaving before or within a few years of qualifying must repay a reducing proportion of course fees, immediately on leaving.

"Yes, it does focus the mind," admitted Richard. "But we hope the people will stay with us for years as great machine operators, sales people, administrators – whatever they develop into, because they have stimulating and challenging career paths.

"We have one young person on our Advanced Apprenticeship Programme with the specific remit of becoming a sales engineer. Another rejected a university place to join us as an apprentice and is now being fast-tracked through our Management Development Programme. One of our female apprentices has just made the transition from manufacturing workshop to sales administration, creating vital packages that will persuade companies to choose our products and services."

AESSEAL has enjoyed 29 consecutive years of growth. It now employs 1,500 people, has operations across the globe, and boasts sales of £123.9m.AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

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News: NES first to sign up for skills academy

Nuclear Engineering Services (NES) is the first company to sign up to the newly-launched National Skills Academy (NSA) for Nuclear Manufacturing.

A collaboration with manufacturing skills group Semta, the NSA Nuclear Manufacturing will create a single point of entry for employers and a dedicated team, based at the Nuclear AMRC's facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham, will tackle the most urgent skills challenges facing the nuclear manufacturing industry.

It was officially launched last week by Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg MP to an audience of over 200 key stakeholders, industry representatives, employers and Government officials.

NSA Nuclear Manufacturing operates on a membership model, with industrial members gaining full access to its specialist skills services. NES, a Tier One member of the Nuclear AMRC, is the first company to sign up. NES specialises in the integrated design, manufacture, assembly, test and commissioning of bespoke solutions for the nuclear decommissioning, new build and defence markets.

Chris Bill, finance director, at NES, said: "NES are delighted to be involved with the National Skills Academy for Nuclear Manufacturing. Creating a workforce to meet the demands of the current and future UK nuclear programme is something NES are extremely keen to support.

"Becoming a member of the National Skills Academy will expand on the in-house work carried out by NES in developing a manufacturing apprentice scheme and IMechE accredited graduate engineering scheme."

Jean Llewellyn OBE, chief executive of the NSA Nuclear and NSA Nuclear Manufacturing, added: "Currently, from large multinationals to SMEs, manufacturers have identified a shortage of skilled labour with the competencies required to support the nuclear programme. This is a significant hindrance to them being able to grow their existing operations in the nuclear market, and a real barrier to new supply chain companies wishing to work in the sector.

"The National Skills Academy Nuclear Manufacturing will support the maximisation of nuclear opportunities for the UK manufacturing industry in both the UK and globally, delivering the skills requirements companies need to grow their current market share. Complementing this will be the delivery of manufacturing and engineering training to provide high quality long-term careers for people in this market."

National Skills Academy for Nuclear Manufacturing website

Nuclear AMRC website

Images: National Skills Academy for Nuclear Manufacturing

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News: Unions criticise contact centre outsourcing

Unions have expressed their disappointment at the decision by O2 and Telefonica to work with Capita to transfer already outsourced call centre jobs to South Africa, a move that affects 200 FTE jobs in Rotherham.

In a £65m deal last year, Capita, the UK's leading outsourcing company, purchased Ventura, a customer contact specialist and employer of thousands of people in the Dearne Valley.

In July, Capita acquired Full Circle, a leading contact centre solutions business based in Cape Town, South Africa, in a £1m deal.

Unions claim that this had lead to the decision to use the South African centre to handle front line O2 work from this autumn. Work currently already outsourced to Capita in the Dearne Valley.

Sally Bridge, assistant secretary at the Communication Workers Union (CWU), said: "We view the decision to off-shore up to 200 full-time equivalent jobs by Telefónica O2 to Cape Town as a significant shift in current policy by the UK board.

"At a time when other telecom and IT companies are bringing work back from abroad due to the negative impact on company brand this is not a direction that we believe the company should be taking. This move will do little to instil any confidence amongst our members."

A spokesperson from the Prospect Union, added: "One of O2's important selling points has been that all calls from UK customers are handled by UK staff. We believe it is a serious misjudgement at a time of high unemployment in the UK to compromise this customer advantage and transfer calls overseas. Our members are telling us it reflects old ways of thinking, not new."

A spokesperson for Capita said: "We use a number of outsourced partners to help us manage customer enquiries and it's a natural step for us to look at other countries for this type of work. Capita will run the centre and help us understand the business benefits and the customer experience."

The award-winning Manvers contact centre has worked with organisations such as Orange, British Gas and British Midland and Capita has stated that it intends to find other posts for the workers affected by the transfer.

Capita website

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News: AMRC Training Centre launches in Rotherham

The world-class Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Training Centre was launched by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg in Rotherham today.

The £20.5m centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) will provide training in the practical and academic skills that manufacturing companies need to compete globally, from apprenticeship through to Doctorate and MBA level.

The focus will be on 250 students aged from 16 upwards, to be taken on paid apprenticeships with opportunities to progress on to postgraduate courses.

The centre will focus on high-level training, concentrating on sectors such as aerospace, energy and Formula One. It will also host part time CPD courses with the training schedule guided by industrial partners and participating companies.

Professor Keith Burnett, vice-chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: "The manufacturing sector needs to be proactive to rebalance the economy. High levels of skills are what will make the difference when we compete on a global basis in technology and leadership.

"What we are doing together to regenerate our region and to regenerate UK manufacturing is wasted if our research and equipment is not matched by skilled people. We need young people ready to accept the jobs we create and to take the UK forward.

"Together with colleagues from Rolls-Royce and Boeing, as well as with over 70 companies in the engineering supply chain, our partnership has shown that this region is a world-class hub for advanced manufacturing. We are not just creating knowledge and manufacturing breakthroughs. We are creating the skilled workers at all levels who will secure this for the future. This is the crucial next step in the wonderful work here at the AMRC and together as we make a step change in advanced manufacture."

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "This initiative today, and the work of everyone, the commitment of the University, the commitment of Sheffield, across all parties, all of us, to a manufacturing renaissance in South Yorkshire and Sheffield, has to be part of a bigger picture - turning the page of social attitudes which reflect the long term values.

"It's a collaboration which I hope will really become an absolutely first rate way of getting people trained up with skills for the jobs in the future."

Plans for the 5,566 sq m centre were recently approved and it is scheduled to open in autumn 2013.

The AMRC Training Centre will also link with both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University for higher-level education, and with the new Sheffield University Technical College (UTC), to provide a full progression in engineering training for the first time in the region.

Alison Bettac, training director at the AMRC, said: "This is an exciting time for the Sheffield City Region, with so much happening on the skills agenda, we cannot afford to miss the opportunity to ensure that everyone is on board and supporting the initiatives that will be rolled out over the next few months.

"It is our duty to ensure that Sheffield City Region continues to be the region of choice to attract investors and to retain and develop the talent that makes us so unique."

AMRC website

Images: University of Sheffield

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News: AESSEAL looks to profit by investing in the value of its apprentices

The UK needs to re-evaluate the term "engineer" and improve skills and apprenticeship provision if it is to compete in the global manufacturing marketplace.

That's the view of Richard Cook, production and personnel director at the award-winning Rotherham manufacturer, AESSEAL.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the Templeborough firm's £1.25m apprenticeship programme today, he said: "If the UK is to compete credibly in manufacturing, it needs to re-evaluate the term "engineer", giving it the esteem it has in other leading manufacturing nations, such as Germany and Japan.

"We must also stop devaluing "apprenticeships"; recognise them as a three to five year programme of skills acquisition to create competent machinists – quite aside from the development necessary to go into production supervision and management."

AESSEAL is the world's fourth largest mechanical seal business and supplies oil, chemical, gas, mining, water and other industries. They have developed a two year off-the-job programme for its current and future apprentices.

Earlier this year the government's Business, Innovation and Skills Committee learnt of the need for more support and new national standards for engineering apprenticeships at an evidence gathering session held at the University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre with Boeing (AMRC) in Rotherham.

Richard attended the session.

He condemned current notions that good apprenticeships can be delivered by a 42-week programme: "People are deluded if they think the creation of an engineer can be compressed to this extent. Some of our past apprentices from such schemes were unable to demonstrate even the most basic of machining skills, such as thread cutting.

"We have a huge problem with skills in manufacturing, locally and nationally. We also suffer from cynicism about manufacturing being a dying sector. It's not. This country – commentators, politicians and others – should recognise that, and put much more than words into promoting and encouraging it."

He is also scathing about training provision in general. "Some organisations are drawing down millions in EU funds and not meriting it. But we use a local company, Brinsworth Training (now Brinsworth Academy of Engineering), because they demonstrated a genuine will to work with us to improve local apprenticeship provision. In return we directly support Brinsworth's Strategic Advisory Board."

Richard (pictured, holding one of AESSEAL's many awards) joined AESSEAL in 2002 with the company continuing its record of earning consecutive years of sales and profit growth. A run that is likely to reach 30 this year.

He is an advocate of apprenticeships for a reason: "I have a passion for apprenticeships, because I am an apprentice-trained engineer."

He left school with five GCSEs and was offered a broad-based training programme in engineering at a time when many companies were eradicating apprenticeships.

"And what a fantastic start to working life that was! I eventually went on to achieve an honours degree. So I absolutely understand what a great career route this can be for young people."

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL / IMechE

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News: Macalloy helps to raise Cutty Sark

Rotherham construction experts, Macalloy, has supported the extensive conservation project of Cutty Sark, the world's last surviving tea clipper and one of Britain's greatest maritime treasures.

Cutty Sark, in Greenwich, recently welcomed its 100,000th visitor since being officially re-opened by the Queen in the spring.

Based in Dinnington, Macalloy are world leaders in design, manufacture and supply of threaded bar and cable systems to engineering and construction projects across the globe.

One of the most complex conservation projects ever undertaken on a historic ship took over six years and was supported by £25m of public money raised through the National Lottery.

Despite criticism by some architects for the design, the project included a brilliant feat of engineering, with Cutty Sark raised 11 feet (3.3 meters) into the air, relieving the keel of the weight of the ship and preserving her unique shape.

The clipper weighing over 900 tons, was then tied back to the dry dock using a combination of Macalloy tension bars and circular hollow sections.

Richard Doughty, director of Cutty Sark, said: "Lifting Cutty Sark over three metres into the air was one of the most challenging aspects of the project and it is incredibly rewarding to see the reactions of visitors walking underneath the 980-ton ship for the first time – it's a spectacular experience and allows you to see the elegant lines of her hull which enabled her to make record-breaking voyages. We are immensely proud of what we've achieved here."

Inside the hull, Macalloy tension bars are used to provide further structural support and maintain its original shape following the fire damage that Cutty Sark suffered in 2007.

Macalloy tension bars are also used to suspend the steel bridge that leads visitors around the vessel. There is a glass and steel structure containing a stairwell that is braced using Macalloy tension bars and features a Macalloy connection disk.

Also within the hull a large display screen shows the history of Cutty Sark's famous journeys around the world and Macalloy tension bars are used to suspend a seated viewing area from a steel joist.

Macalloy systems support impressive projects around the world including the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg, Dubai International Airport, the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai and close to home, Clifton Park in Rotherham.

The company moved to Rotherham in 2006 where they provide employment to 80 people and enjoy a turnover of £12m.

Macalloy website

Images: Macalloy / National Maritime Museum

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News: Support for exporters in Rotherham

Rotherham is hosting an event later this month for the region's companies to find out the financial support available to help them export.

Supporting Our Exporters is a free event being hosted by UK Export Finance (UKEF) and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) on September 19.

It will highlight the services and support offered by UK Export Finance, the UK's export credit agency. UKEF provides government assistance to exporters of all sizes, principally in the form of insurance policies and guarantees on bank loans.

Businesses attending will be able to discuss the key issues they face in financing their export contracts, as well as looking at options such as credit insurance and loan guarantees.

They will also be able to hear from Jim Keir, the recently-appointed export finance adviser for UKTI Yorkshire and the Humber.

Jim explained: "Secure and reliable finance is vital to businesses that are looking to trade overseas, but this can present a real challenge to many exporters. For example, they may have found themselves having to turn down export contracts because they couldn't raise the necessary finance, or they may have experienced bad debts when dealing with overseas clients.

"UK Export Finance aims to support these businesses by providing guarantees on bank loans, credit insurance and overseas investment insurance, and this event is a great way to find out more."

The free event, run in conjunction with HSBC and Credit Risk Solutions Ltd, takes place from 8.45am to 12.45pm.

Places are limited, but to register your attendance, visit the UKTI website

UK Export Finance website

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News: Consort Hotel sold

The Best Western Consort Hotel in Thurcroft, Rotherham has recently been sold to the hotels division of investment company, West Register Property.

The new owners plan to introduce a refurbishment programme throughout the popular banqueting and hotel venue over the next 12 months with the newly refurbished banqueting suite complete by the end of October in time for the Christmas season.

Onecall Hospitality, one of the UK's leading consultants in the hospitality industry has become the new business tenants.

Sharon Leahy, general manager at the Best Western Consort Hotel, said: "It is a very exciting time for all of the staff at the hotel. After a period of uncertainty while the hotel was up for sale.

"We are very pleased that the hotel is now owned by a company with a long term plan to invest in the property and support us in re-establishing the Consort Suite as one of the most popular banqueting, event and wedding facilities in South Yorkshire."

The 27-room hotel was put up for sale in January with an asking price of £1.3m. It was purchased from the Peat family who have owned the hotel since 1997 with Charles Peat selling up to live abroad with the family.

Best Western Consort Hotel website

Onecall Hospitality website

Images: bw-consorthotel.co.uk

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News: MTL Group recognise the contribution of their apprentices

Rotherham-based MTL Group has held its first apprenticeship awards to recognise the importance and contribution that its apprentices have made to the continued growth of the manufacturing specialist.

MTL Group is one of Europe's fastest growing project manufacturing specialists in the metal sector and is a global supplier of secondary steelwork.

It works with a global blue-chip customer base in the defence, construction equipment, rail and off-shore wind energy sectors.

Moving to a £5m, 300,00 sq ft state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Brinsworth in 2011, MTL currently has around 380 employees, 22 of these are apprentices.

The awards which included "Most Sustained Apprentice", "Most Improved Apprentice" and "Special Achievement" were presented by managing director Dr Henry Shirman and operations director Darren Bradley.

The awards recognised the apprentices for excelling in the engineering field the effort and quality of the work produced over the past year.

Dr Henry Shirman, managing director at MTL, said: "Over the past number of years we have supported our apprentices and are recognising their efforts.

"It has been identified that there is a shortage of skilled workers in the manufacturing industry. For these youngsters it is a fantastic opportunity for them to grow and for the upcoming apprentices to follow suit being acknowledged for their contributions at MTL Group."

The event also welcomed family members of the apprentices so that they too could share in the success and also recognises the importance of apprentices in industry.

Anita Adams, HR manager at MTL, concluded: "Over the past few years, the number of apprentices has grown significantly, and they all play a fundamental part in the future success of the business."

MTL underwent a management buyout in 2006 and has doubled its turnover in the last five years to £50m. Since moving to Rotherham, export sales have almost doubled to £7.3m.

MTL Group website

Images: MTL Group

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News: MSSR expands with Seneca Investments

Rotherham-based MSSR, has acquired Tienda Limited with backing from Yorkshire turnaround specialist, Seneca Investments.

Canklow-based MSSR specialises in building petrol forecourts and ancillary services nationwide. They earmarked Tienda, a Grantham and Cambridge-based interior design and construction company, as an ideal bolt-on investment opportunity.

Seneca, which was set up in 2011 to support the SME arena in a tough climate, added MSSR to their investment portfolio earlier this year. In the latest deal, Seneca has injected a substantial investment into Tienda Limited whilst also acquiring a 49 per cent share of the business. The remaining 51 per cent has been acquired by the management team of MSSR Forecourt Developments Ltd.

Melanie Hird, a director of Seneca Investments and chairman of Tienda, is providing strategic input into both companies. She said: "The deal creates a strategic platform for their further growth and expansion – delivering a full-service offering for design, construction and fit out complimented with a complete design and build offering.

"The strength of MSSR and Tienda's combined business strategy and operational synergy will undoubtedly open doors to new opportunities and markets for both companies."

Michael Sanders, MD of MSSR and Tienda, said: "We're looking forward to working with the Tienda team on consolidating our resources into a full-service offering and rolling it out to our combined client base of blue-chip retailers and specifiers, as well as targeting new markets together."

MSSR was founded in 1989 to provide specialist petrol forecourt construction services to the oil industry. They have been involved in over 1,000 sites nationwide and works with companies such as Asda, Total Oil, BP and Texaco. It has a turnover of £5m.

hlw Keeble Hawson represented Seneca in the transaction. Hill Dickinson in Sheffield acted for MSSR, Nottingham-based Eversheds represented Lloyds TSB Bank and Sloan Plumb & Wood Solicitors in Peterborough acted for Tienda.

Neil Large of hlw Keeble Hawson, said: "Seneca Investments has an uncanny knack of identifying and creating good investment opportunities and structuring them in a way that makes them attractive propositions to all parties.

"This is another strategically sound deal which brings together two very well-matched companies, with the new entity a strong proposition in the design and construction sector."

MSSR website

Images: Seneca Investments

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News: Ground breaking for University Technical College

A major step forward in the delivery of Sheffield City Region's new £8.5m University Technical College (UTC) was celebrated last week with a special ground breaking ceremony to mark the start of construction on the project.

Master Cutler, Pam Liversidge OBE and Cllr Julie Dore, Leader of Sheffield City Council, joined contractor, Wates Construction, and project sponsor, The Sheffield College, to mark the start of the work.

The college, which will become the first UTC in Yorkshire and one of only 18 across the UK, will have a capacity for 600 students aged 14 to 19 years. The facility will provide specialist vocational learning within the engineering and digital sectors.

The project has been made possible through the financial support of Sheffield City Council, which bought the Porter Brook Site on which the UTC will be built, alongside lead sponsor The Sheffield College. The college has also received £9.9m capital funding from the Department for Education.

Nick Crew, principal of UTC Sheffield, said: "It is a very exciting time as work commences on this fantastic facility. Interest in the UTC is really growing amongst the region's young people and this is testament to what will be achieved here, a state of the art institution that will excel in providing work-based learning via an employer-led curriculum."

Pam Liversidge, Master Cutler, added: "We in this region have a proud tradition of technology, engineering and innovation. The UTC along with other local initiatives will help to stimulate interest in these areas and give young people the passion for innovation as well as the entrepreneurial spirit, which will be so vital to us in the future.

"Much hard work has gone into winning the right to have the UTC here and we, in business, must put our full support behind it to ensure the best result and enjoy the advantages it brings."

Whilst the project sponsors are The Sheffield College it is effectively led by employers from the relevant sectors within the City Region. Directors of the Sheffield UTC Academy Trust include representatives from the two Sheffield universities, Sheffield Chamber and businesses including Vincent Middleton, managing director of Newburgh Engineering in Rotherham.

Other significant local employers have put themselves forward as partners including Rotherham's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing, Newburgh, Darron Tools, AESSEAL, Rolls-Royce and Tata Steel.

Andrew Cropley, principal of Norton College and chair of the UTC Academy Trust, said: "As the UTC starts to take on a physical form and becomes more than a concept I hope it will encourage even more employers to get involved by leading projects or sponsoring students.

"I'm sure the commencement of work on site will inspire young people across the Sheffield city region to explore the exciting opportunities the UTC can offer them to continue their education and begin their future careers."

UTC Sheffield website

Images: utcsheffield.org.uk

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