Greater Manchester-based Karas Plating Ltd (karas.co.uk), a specialist electroplating and metal coating company, has switched part of its production capacity to produce Nickel-plated air nuts which will be used in the production of emergency ventilators for the NHS. It has also produce silver-plated electrical connectors that have been used in the newly constructed Nightingale hospitals around the UK.

The company, which has been tasked with producing 30,000 air nuts, is currently operating a multi-shift pattern over 24hr, in order to deliver the components as rapidly as possible.

Managing director Andrew Ashcroft said: “Our large-scale production capacity can make a real difference at this time and we are doing everything we can to deliver the parts as swiftly as we can. We are also working hard to ensure that this increase in production has minimal impact on our commitment to provide parts for other vital industries including energy transmission and food manufacturing.”

“We see this as our small contribution to the important work our healthcare professionals are doing on the frontline every day. I am proud that our dedicated staff have been able to help drive this initiative forward at such a critical time.”

Karas Plating has also implemented a range of new working practices to ensure that staff can adhere to social distancing guidelines along with PPE and strict hygiene procedures in all areas of the factory. Production of the vital parts started four weeks ago and the aim is to have the order fulfilled by June.

Contingency plans are also in place to extend production for as long as there is an acute need for the specialist components.