Three Walter Helitronic Power multi-axis tool grinders plus a Walter Helicheck tool measuring machine — supplied by Warwick-based Walter Ewag UK Ltd (www.walter-machines.com) — have enabled Elite Tooling to reinforce its standing as a manufacturer of special-purpose tooling for customers in the aerospace industry, as well as the medical and Formula One sectors.

Established in 1995 as a distributor for Tivoly tools, the Rotherham-based firm progressively moved into tool production and regrinding, which now account for 80% and 20% of its output respectively. It is now part of the French group Tivoly, which has an annual turnover of 83 million euros.

The latest Helitronic Power tool grinder is equipped with an Eco Loader. Available in versions that accommodate up to 165 tools, this is mounted on the machine’s work table, while the loading/unloading gripper is integrated into the grinding head.

Production manager Lee Burkill, who has been with Elite for 11 years, said: “We mainly specialise in all types of bespoke carbide tooling, including profile and multi-step cutters; these are usually produced — to micron tolerances — in quantities of one- to 10-off.

“We also produce Tivoly’s standard tools for drilling, milling, boring, tapping and threading — in batches of about 100-off — and we regularly use the Eco Loader for unmanned operation, especially for overnight production.”

Tools are designed and manufactured from scratch, with a speed of production such that Elite says it can often deliver a tool in the time it takes some companies just to quote.

This ability to achieve fast turn-rounds is based on maintaining a comprehensive stock of semi-finished blanks.