Midlands based manufacturer Tooling 2000 Ltd has been busy innovating and investing over the course of the pandemic. The leading automotive press tool manufacturer has invested heavily to increase capability across all parts of the business helping better support the needs of their current and future customers.
After the unfortunate death of former Managing Director Mr Tony Downes, the current manufacturing director Mr Gary Williams has taken the leading role and is making positive changes to the business with the help of his dedicated team. Gary said:
“Upon my appointment as Managing Director, my primary focus was to assess the current capabilities at my disposal and create a business plan around what we had and what investments would be needed to move the business forward and secure our future.”
For the past year, with the aid of a grant funded by Birmingham city council, Gary and the team have been able to increase their machining capability which now includes high speed machining up to 4.2m x 2.6m, full simultaneous 5 axis machining and CNC turning.
Improvements in their CAD / CAM packages have now brought all aspects of the design and machine programming process under the same software supplier allowing for seamless integration.
In addition to this, 2021 also saw the integration of Autoform die simulation software into the business and major improvements within the quality department using both mobile laser scanning equipment and a new CMM facility due to go online this September.
Having had to previously outsource their scanning and inspection requirements, with this technology readily available within their own facility, the team are able to react quicker to any given problem, inspection and reverse engineering of any existing parts can be completed as required with no lengthy waiting.
All of this investment in plant and machinery has been matched with the investment in and acquisition of staff. Tooling 2000 started the new year bringing three talented apprentices into the business as part of introducing a fresher perspective and long-term strategy.
As members of Next Gen Makers, a private sector initiative for West Midlands Engineering and manufacturing firms to inspire more youngsters to get involved with the sector, Gary felt it made sense to find the candidates through this platform. And, as a former apprentice himself felt the importance of investing in the next generation of talent in the business.
So what’s next Gary and his team?
As we strive to improve efficiency and reduce leadtimes we have implemented the replacement of one of our two existing 5 axis laser cutting machines with a brand new 4m x 2m Trumpf Trucell 7040 fiber optic laser cutter due to be commissioned this December.
The remaining aspect of the firm’s ambitious plans are to grow and diversify the business.
Using online marketing, together with an improved website Gary wants to ensure that people are aware of the vast expertise and increasing capabilities of the family run business that strives to be around far into the future. Gary concluded:
“For nearly 25 years Tooling 2000 have offered tailored solutions to the metal stamping and component manufacturing industries, from initial concept and part feasibility, through to the finished component, including contract machining and 5 axis laser cutting.
Now with our continued investment and keen eye on the future we are able to offer the best service possible”