Wellingborough-based Emplas Window Systems (www.emplas.co.uk), one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of windows, doors and conservatories, has embarked on a major £1.4 million investment in new machinery, to boost its total output capacity to 2,500 frames on a single shift.

This includes the purchase of a new Rotox eight-head welder and cleaning line, giving two automated production lines.

The company has also invested in a new Rotox high-speed sash cleaner, increasing sash output by more than 20%, and a fourth Rotox five-head in-line welder.

A second Rotox crucifix welder has also been purchased, along with two new Rotox bead lines and a second Schirmer machining and cutting centre.

The latter automates profile cutting and machining, with profile scanning technology to introduce ‘pin prick’ accuracy to positioning of cuts and routs to within 0.3mm.

Moreover, it delivers improved product quality and can convert a 6m bar length into a fully prepped frame within seconds, massively increasing Emplas’s production capacity.

Emplas operations director Ray Sinclair said: “The investment we’re making not only gives us more capacity but also allows us to drive continuous improvements in our product quality and service.”

In addition to the machinery investment, a major extension of Emplas’s facility is currently underway; scheduled for completion this autumn, it will give the company 18,000ft² of additional floor space.

An investment in IT infrastructure will underpin the expansion.