Dorset-based Brimor Engineering, a specialist in precision-machined components, has invested in its first-ever automation solution to achieve ‘lights out’ working.

The company, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, has installed a Halter Load Assistant — supplied by Engineering Technology Group (ETG) (www.engtechgroup.com) — as part of its plans to capitalise on a recent 20% increase in sales.

It wanted a compact robotic solution suited to a production environment where short set-up times are essential, and this investment is already reaping dividends — the automated loading of up to 100 workpieces has freed up staff to work elsewhere in the factory.

Brimor Engineering’s managing director, Chris Harley, said: “A lot of our precision components and assemblies head for the automotive industry, so there is a lot of pressure to deliver high-quality components with reduced lead times.

“ETG guided us through the different technology options available, until we settled on the Halter Load Assistant.

“This is our first investment in robotics, and it has fitted seamlessly into our Blandford Forum factory, potentially saving us up to four weeks of production time every year.

“Now we have freed up additional capacity, we want to go after new opportunities in sectors that are looking for precision complex components and speed of delivery.”

Steve Brown, sales director at ETG, said: “Our technical experts have seen a significant increase in the number of ‘lights out’ projects we are taking on, where we work with sub-contractors to explore the possibility of producing components through the night without any labour costs.

“Advancements in technology mean that this scenario is not purely the property of the big boys, with millions of pounds set aside to introduce it.

“SMEs like Brimor Engineering are switching on to the benefits that this new industrial trend can bring.

“Although the key driver of ‘lights out’ is to reduce labour costs, it is also possible to save money in other areas of the business.

“For example, having longer production runs through the night will allow more time to do shorter batch runs during the day.”