The Carfulan Group’s inaugural Manufacturing Performance Network event (MPN) attracted more than 140 visitors from all areas of the UK, with engineers, researchers, academics and industry experts going to the headquarters near Derby to see product launches, software enhancements and live demonstrations (www.carfulan.com).

Attracting much attention was an XJet Carmel 1400 system, which uses ‘Nano-Particle Jetting’ technology to 3-D print high-quality geometrically complex ceramic and metal components quickly and safely.

It was the first time the machine had been on display in the UK, after XJ3D — the Carfulan Group’s newest company — became the first appointed world-wide partner of Israel-based Xjet.

Several machine deals were secured by Carfulan Group companies during the three days.

For example, Tamworth-based Brown & Holmes bought two Stratasys 3-D printers from SYS Systems, while Ilkeston-based HPC Services Ltd bought an M306 optical measuring machine from ViciVision UK.

Carfulan Group managing director Chris Fulton said: “We had around 25 live machine and technology demonstrations at MPN, and it was the first time that we have been able to show all of our technologies at the same time under one roof.

“MPN served to underline the fact that the UK manufacturing industry is thriving. It was a fantastic way to end what’s been a highly successful 2018 for all our group companies — OGP UK, SYS Systems, Zoller UK, ViciVision UK and XJ3D.”