Grenville Engineering, Stoke-on-Trent, which is currently celebrating its 40th year in business, is taking its fabrication capabilities to new heights with the recent £250,000 investment in an RVD SmartFibre CNC tube laser cutting machine supplied by Stafford-based Bison Machinery, a supplier of metal fabrication and sheet metal machines. The recently acquired TF 8020.3000 model has transformed the company’s operational dynamics and expanded its market outreach and extensive training, tests, and fine-tuning have now been completed and the machine is fully operational.

The new SmartFibre CNC tube laser cutting machine offers advanced capabilities and enables Grenville to precisely cut a wide range of tubular profiles and sections in various lengths, diameters, materials, and wall thicknesses. It provides unparalleled flexibility in Grenville’s manufacturing processes, and enables the company to cut a variety of materials, from mild steel and stainless steel to aluminium, brass, and copper.

Bringing this cutting-edge technology in-house is strategic, offering Grenville greater control, flexibility, and significantly reduced lead times. Grenville sales director Stuart Rawlinson said: “The new fibre tube laser from Bison isn’t just a piece of equipment; it is an absolute game-changer for our business.”

Powered by Lantek Flex3d processing and nesting software, the fibre laser can produce intricate components in various profiles, including round, square, oval, and flat-sided oval. Additionally, Grenville has upgraded its capabilities with an optional Lantek module which broadens functionality to process flat bars and open-sided components like angles and channels.

The machine features high-quality components, such as a RayTools auto-focus cutting head, Yasakawa drives, and nLIGHT laser sources, with power ratings ranging from 1.5kW to 6kW. Mr Rawlinson continued: “Operationally, it means greater precision, more versatility, shorter lead times, greater cost-efficiencies, and more eco-friendly processes.”

This investment will help enhance the services provided by Grenville to its customer base wile also open doors to new markets and applications. The company anticipates improved efficiency, expanded capabilities, maximised productivity, faster lead times, and lower costs as a result.

As the newly acquired machine ramps up to full operational capacity, Grenville expects to recruit more people. Beyond technological advancements,the company remains committed to cultivating a thriving work environment and fostering career growth within its expanding operations.