A St Helens-based manufacturer, Magnum Motorsport Composites, is investigating how 3D printing could change its manufacturing processes within the motorsport industry. The company participated in a regional showcase organized by the Made Smarter North West program at CNC Robotics’ facility in Bootle, where they learned about the advancements in additive manufacturing.
Andy Knowles, the director of Magnum Motorsport Composites, highlighted the industry’s emphasis on speed—not just in vehicle performance but also in production timelines. The goal is to streamline the process from design to finished product by utilizing 3D-printed molds more efficiently and cutting down on unnecessary steps. This approach aims to enhance material usage and response times to meet the rapid demands of motorsport.
The showcase featured live demonstrations of robotic systems that construct parts layer by layer, using various materials such as metal and thermoplastic polymers. Max Barnett, a sales and marketing engineer at CNC Robotics, discussed the company’s journey into robotic automation and their collaborative efforts with Made Smarter to assist UK manufacturers in adopting new technologies.
Made Smarter aims to bolster digital transformation in the North West’s manufacturing sector. Claire Scott, a technology adoption specialist at the program, emphasized that additive manufacturing is no longer a novel concept but a proven tool that enhances operational efficiency, speed, and sustainability.
CNC Robotics’ co-owner, Madina Barker, pointed out that such collaborative events demonstrate how smaller businesses can lead the way in innovating the UK supply chain. Participants at the event acknowledged its value in increasing their understanding of 3D printing and its practical applications.
The Made Smarter program supports North West SMEs with various resources, including workshops, leadership training, and grants to hasten the adoption of new technologies.