Colchester Machine Tool Solutions

Engineered for Education, Solihull College & University Centre

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 07/05/2021

The government is establishing a number of high-quality institutes of technology
(IoTs). Solihull College & University Centre is leading the Greater Birmingham & Solihull IoT, which was successful in its application through a government-led competition.

Institutes of Technology are collaborations between further education (FE) providers, universities and employers. They specialise in delivering higher technical education (at Levels 4 and 5) with a focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects.
IoTs focus on the specific technical skills needs required in their area. They provide employers with a skilled workforce and students with a clear route to technical employment.
As part of Solihull College and University Centre’s refurbishment, they began a tender process to upgrade existing machinery to state-of-art equipment in their new workshop facility.
Colchester were successful in the tender and awarded the contract to supply a diverse range of machinery including our conventional machinery including Pillar Drills, Master and Student centre lathes and Typhoon CNC Turning Centres and a Storm Vertical Machining Centre to be installed in the newly refurbished workshop.

Testimonial -

"Following a thorough procurement process in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, Colchester were selected for the provision of various milling machines, pillar drills, lathes and tooling and monitoring packages. Their tender success was based on a qualitative process which included technical evaluation, fit to requirements, capability, social values, value for money and lead times in addition to complimenting the College’s existing suite of machinery. The equipment that the College procured from Colchester is effective in developing basic skills and knowledge of machining processes with industry standard machines and tooling. This facilitates progression into apprenticeships and employment for young people and is the basis for transition to more advanced machining platforms".

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions now offer the full end-to-end machining to marking solution.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 21/08/2020

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions now offer the full end-to-end machining to marking solution.

Continued commitment to providing innovative, value-added solutions to customers Colchester understand the rising demand and need for traceability of machined parts. Working with sister company TYKMA Electrox, Colchester now offer a wide range of market-leading industrial laser engraving machines.

These versatile pieces of equipment are suited for a wide variety of industries including automotive, medical, aviation and any application where traceability is required, suitable for marking any material, surface and composition. The number once choice in industries across the globe for their precision, performance and reliability.

The Colchester/TYKMA Electrox range of permanent laser marking machines offer a cost effective, noise free, clean, quick, efficient durable permanent marking solution offering a simple alternative to existing industry methods such as chemical etching, dot peen marking and labelling.

The laser range is diverse and ranges from compact, flexible desktop units including the Minilase^TMand Lasergear BOQX and QUBE products which combine simplicity with power through to the Zetalase^TM range which offers a more expansive marking area, available in multiple configurations ideal for marking larger/heavier components.

Also on offer via Colchester's experienced application engineers are bespoke custom built solutions, these custom builds can offer up to 4 axis capability providing stepped marking and an almost limitless marking area.
The full range of lasers available can be viewed on Colchester's website https://www.colchester.co.uk/products/permanent-lasers-marking-systems/

All permanent laser marking systems come with warranty and Colchester's service and support package which includes installation and application training, servicing and support.

The lasers are available for demonstration at Colchester's product showroom in Elland, West Yorkshire or can be booked for on site demonstration via the applications team.

If you would like further information on the laser range, or to book a demonstration, contact Colchester on 01924415000 or via info@colchester.co.uk

Colchester welcomes Bridgeport to the family!

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 19/02/2024

Bridgeport Machine Tool Company was recently acquired by InCompass™, the platform company of Colchester Machine Tool Solutions.

As an InCompass™ brand, Bridgeport will continue to evolve its business with the other InCompass™ manufacturing partners, contributing to the vision of creating manufactured growth solutions. The Bridgeport name and legacy live on in the form of various milling machines still in use today, as well as through the influence of its design principles on the machine tool industry.

Bridgeport, a leader in metal machining since 1938, offers exceptional CNC and manual milling solutions. Renowned for advanced metal-cutting capabilities, they cater to diverse industries like aerospace, agricultural, automotive, construction, consumer products, defence, energy, medical, technology, transportation and more. Bridgeport's product range supports various applications with precision and reliability, symbolizing excellence in the machining world. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their extensive range of CNC Vertical Machining Centres ready to ship and elevate industry standards.

Bridgeport’s first revolutionary design was the Series 1 Standard milling machine. It featured a turret-style head that could be swivelled and tilted, allowing for versatile machining operations. Bridgeport’s Series I milling machine quickly gained popularity among machinists and manufacturers due to its simplicity, versatility, and reliability. With the increased awareness of their brand, Bridgeport began to build their legacy. Over the years, Bridgeport introduced various improvements and innovations to its milling machines, such as digital readouts (DROs), CNC capabilities and other modern features, while maintaining its same reputation in the industry.

The latest Series 1 Standard Knee Mill will be present on Colchester Machine Tool Solutions’ stand at MACH 2024 exhibition between 15 – 19 April 2024. It will sit alongside Colchester’s range of renowned CNC & manual machine tools, including new Storm Vertical Milling Machines, Tornado CNC Turning Centres & the Student CNC Lathe.

Register your attendance here – https://www.machexhibition.com/

Bridgeport website - https://bridgeportmachinetools.com/

Register now for the Multi-Axis Machining Event

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 18/09/2024

We are hosting our next open house event on Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th November 2024 at our European Technology Centre in Elland, West Yorkshire. The open house will run between 07:30 – 15:00 on both days. Following the success of our inaugural open house event in October 2023, we decided to host another one to showcase various new products.

The open house, which has the name of ‘Multi-Axis Machining Event’, promises to be an unmissable showcase of the latest products and innovations from Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, who have been trusted in the industry for over 100 years. Join us for the two-day event to see our latest CNC machine offering, including the all-new Tornado Sub-Spindle with Y-axis machining and Bridgeport 5-axis VMCs.

The new Tornado SL25 MSY machine, with its integrated sub-spindle and Y-axis, offers unparalleled productivity and versatility. Its advanced 5-axis single-hit machining allows manufacturers to complete complex components with extraordinary efficiency. By automatically transferring the workpiece from the main spindle to the sub-spindle, the machine ensures seamless turning, milling, and drilling on both sides of the component, drastically reducing cycle times.

The addition of Y-axis machining further enhances its capabilities, enabling precise off-centre milling for keyways, flats, and contoured surfaces, making the Tornado SL25 MSY an essential asset for achieving superior accuracy and efficiency in any production environment.

Legendary machine tool manufacturer Bridgeport is releasing a new range of 5-axis VMC, which are to be distributed exclusively in the UK by Colchester Machine Tool Solutions. The high specification 5-axis VMCs are extremely compact and rugged CNC milling machines; developed for applications that require both the utmost in speed and accuracy.

Our full product range, including our renowned conventional lathes, manual & CNC turret mills & Lightning laser marker will also be on display, with many live demos running throughout the event. Our trusted partners Siemens, LNS, Zerocob & Cutwel will also be present throughout the event.

Breakfast sandwiches (with all the trimmings) will be served in the morning, with refreshments available throughout both days. Lastly, make sure to bring your best short game as there will be a ‘golf darts’ chipping competition, where participants will use a pitching wedge machined on a Colchester machine. The participant with the highest score over a certain number of shots will be taking home a £500 tooling voucher!

Register your attendance here.

Registration is now live for our 2025 Open House

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 23/09/2025

Registration is now open for Colchester Machine Tool Solutions’ annual open house taking place on Tuesday 4^th and Wednesday 5^th November 2025 at its European Technology Centre in Elland, West Yorkshire.

The open house, titled “Manual to CNC: Your Path to Smarter Machining”, will feature two days of live demonstrations, workshops, and expert insight with an opportunity to talk directly to their engineers and applications specialists about your machining challenges.

This year, they celebrate 30 years of Harrison Alpha CNC/Manual Combination Lathes – machines that have transformed workshops worldwide by bridging the gap between conventional turning and CNC machining.

The Harrison Alpha XS & XC machine range is powered by the innovative Alpha Control System, built on the globally trusted Fanuc 0i-TF Plus CNC platform. With this, the Alpha delivers industry-leading flexibility, productivity, and operator confidence — all in one machine. Visit the open house to learn how Alpha can cut costs, boost productivity, and give you a competitive edge – whether for one-off jobs or batch production.

Colchester’s full machine range will also be on show, including Tornado CNC Turning Centres, Storm Vertical Machining Centres, Bridgeport 5-axis VMCs, manual centre lathes, turret mills and Lightning laser markers.

Spaces are limited so secure your place today via their website and take the next step towards smarter, more productive machining.

Building the Future - The Success of our Apprenticeship Programme

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 30/07/2024

At Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, our longstanding investment in apprentices has borne remarkable fruit, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers.

As a leading designer, manufacturer, and supplier of quality, precision manual and CNC machine tools, we understand that our strength lies in our people. Our apprenticeships have not only equipped young talent with the skills needed for a successful career but have also enriched our organisation with innovative ideas and dedicated professionals.

Ryan McMaster stands as a testament to the transformative power of our apprenticeship programme. Since completing his apprenticeship in 2012, Ryan has thrived in various roles, including machine tool assembly, field service, and production planning. Today, he is our esteemed Operations Manager. Reflecting on his journey, Ryan says, "The apprenticeship at Colchester gave me a solid foundation and the confidence to explore various aspects of the business. The support and opportunities provided have been instrumental in my career growth."

Similarly, Tom Robinson, who completed his apprenticeship in 2013, has enjoyed a dynamic career trajectory. Starting as a CNC machinist, Tom advanced to an application engineer and is now an influential Area Sales Manager. "Colchester’s apprenticeship programme opened many doors for me," Tom remarks. "The hands-on experience and the mentorship I received were invaluable. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m proud to be part of a company that invests in its people."

Liam Walker, who completed his apprenticeship in 2021 and went on to earn his Higher National Diploma (HND) in 2024, has progressed from machine tool assembly to his current role as an Electrical Design Engineer. "The continuous learning opportunities at Colchester have been fantastic," Liam shares. "Completing my HND was a significant milestone, and the company’s encouragement and resources made it possible."

Another success story is Jake Cockcroft, who completed his apprenticeship in 2022 and his Higher National Certificate (HNC) in 2023. Initially working in machine tool assembly, Jake is now training to become a field service engineer. "The transition from assembly to field service has been exciting," Jake says. "The company’s commitment to my development has been evident every step of the way."

Joe Simpson, who finished his apprenticeship in 2022 and his HNC in 2023, has moved from machine tool assembly to leading a pioneering project to integrate a new laser marking machine build and test area. "Leading this project has been a highlight of my career," Joe comments. "Colchester’s trust in my abilities and their support for innovative projects are what set this company apart."

Currently in his first year of an electrical/mechanical apprenticeship, Kai Pearson represents the latest wave of talent at Colchester. Working within the machine tool assembly area, Kai is on a promising path. "I’m excited about the future and the opportunities ahead," Kai says. "The apprenticeship programme is providing me with a strong start in my career."

At Colchester, we encourage our apprentices to further their education even after completing their apprenticeships. We support their pursuit of additional qualifications such as HNC, HND, and even degree-level studies. By offering financial assistance, flexible work schedules, and mentorship, we ensure our apprentices have every opportunity to continue their academic and professional development.

Our dedication to apprenticeships is not merely about filling roles; it is about forging robust career pathways. Colchester provides comprehensive training, mentoring, and opportunities for further education, ensuring our apprentices grow into well-rounded professionals. We take pride in our role as a cornerstone of the engineering and manufacturing community. By investing in our apprentices, we are not only enhancing our own capabilities, but also contributing to the broader industry. Our apprenticeships are designed to inspire and equip young engineers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their careers.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to continuing our investment in apprenticeships, recognising their crucial role in sustaining our competitive edge and fostering innovation. We will keep developing talent from within, providing our apprentices with the resources and opportunities to climb the career ladder.

For further information, please contact:

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions
Address: Lowfields Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9DA, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0) 1924 415 000
Email: info@colchester.co.uk
Website: www.colchester.co.uk

Yorkshire Company Launch Productivity Boosting Product Aimed at the SME Community

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 09/07/2021

Connect 600 is a brand new product which has recently been launched by Made in Yorkshire member Colchester Machine Tool Solutions ; an Industry 4.0 package aimed at the SME community and connecting machine shops.

“You can't manage what you don't measure" (Peter Drucker, 1954)

Connect600 uses Industry 4.0 technology to give operators and managers more control and insight into their machine shop, by providing information needed to drive increases in productivity, all at the touch of a button.

Connect600 is a cloud-based system that uses machine sensors to monitor and deliver real-time data and analytics, shown on virtual dashboards to monitor machine productivity, maintenance and production quality to drive optimal manufacturing performance.

As Cliff Brereton says within the interview embedded below: “Everybody wants and needs productivity. And you can’t manage what you don’t measure. Connect 600 gives you exactly that.”

The system can be fitted on any machine type, vintage or make to seamlessly integrate your factory, resulting in:

More uptime
Faster throughputs
Higher yields
Fewer rejects
Less maintenance overhead

And ROI is measurable within months!

This innovative new product has been launched as a means of providing real time monitoring direct to your smart device. This direct monitoring is used for machine maintenance, productivity and workshop management at the touch of a button.

In terms of pricing for this product, Colchester Machine Tool Solutions are offering a 1-off licence cost from £4,995 per machine, including 1 year support. There is also an optional annual support contract from year 2 onwards, which is £495 per machine.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions are part of the 600 Group plc and are a manufacturer and distributor of machine tools, precision engineered components and industrial laser marking systems. Get in touch through the enquiry form on their microsite today to find out more.

"We Need Stability": Colchester Machine Tools' MD, Jonathan Wright is Backing Britain

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 26/07/2024

Backing Britain is back. Made in Group is urging the UK government to debate and act upon: addressing concerns related to safeguarding manufacturing capacity, addressing concerns related to ownership of British businesses and appointing a Minister for manufacturing.

After the recent general election, the Backing Britain Campaign aims to present both the challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing sector to the new government. By amplifying the voices of the business leaders most affected, the campaign seeks to educate top-level officials about the changes that SMEs in manufacturing want to see.

Empowering UK Manufacturing: Insights from Jonathan Wright of Colchester Machine Tools

In an extremely insightful discussion with Jonathan Wright, Managing Director of Colchester Machine Tools, the challenges and opportunities facing the UK manufacturing sector were laid bare. Colchester Machine Tools, a renowned manufacturer of CNC machinery, has been a steadfast supporter of UK industry since their inception in 1887. During an interview with Sam Sleight of Made in Yorkshire, Jonathan shared his perspectives on the sector's inherent strengths, the critical challenges it faces, including infrastructure inefficiencies and resource wastage, and the significance of the "Backing Britain" campaign.

Supporting the UK Manufacturing Sector

Colchester Machine Tools has been a key player in the UK manufacturing landscape for well over 100 years. Their machine tools are crucial for thousands of tier 2 and tier 3 companies supplying to a range of industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical and defence. As well as supplying tier ones and some OEMs in these industries too, Colchester also do a lot of work in Education; "Our products are integral to the development of engineers at all levels, from apprentices to experienced industry professionals" Jonathan explained, underscoring the company's impact on skill development in the UK.

The company's machines are renowned for their durability and longevity, with many still operational after 50 years. This longevity not only speaks to the quality of the products but also to the company's commitment to providing long-term support. "We have over 100,000 machines installed worldwide in operation at the moment, and we pride ourselves on offering continued spare parts and technical support," Jonathan noted. This support ensures that their clients can maintain productivity without the disruption of sourcing new machinery, thereby fostering a reliable and stable manufacturing environment.

Strengths of UK Manufacturing

The Colchester MD highlighted several key strengths of the UK manufacturing sector. One of the most significant is the sector's resilience and adaptability, particularly among SMEs. Jonathan spoke about the fact that small to medium sized British manufacturing businesses have demonstrated remarkable resilience, managing to sustain operations and even grow market share amidst numerous global challenges. "Despite everything that's been thrown at them, I think UK businesses, particularly SME's, are very robust. They're pretty good at just getting on with things! Regardless of what's going on around them, they stay resilient." Wright remarked, reflecting a deep respect for the tenacity of SMEs in manufacturing.

Challenges

While the strengths of UK manufacturing are evident, the industry also faces significant challenges too. Jonathan talked Sam through what he saw as the three most prominent challenges in UK Manufacturing at the moment.

Stability and Strategic Planning

Jonathan pointed out that the frequent changes in government policies and leadership have created an environment of uncertainty, hindering long-term planning and investment. "The lack of stability due to political shifts, whether from Brexit, the pandemic, or changing leadership, has been a major hurdle," Wright emphasised. He described how these changes often lead to inconsistent strategies, making it difficult for businesses to align with a coherent national industrial strategy.

The West Yorkshire based MD, who will be celebrating 25 years at Colchester Machine Tools next year, argued for the establishment of a robust industrial strategy; one that will remain consistent despite political changes. Jonathan suggested that such a strategy should be protected by a framework akin to a Royal Charter, which would ensure continuity and stability. "A consistent industrial strategy, like a Royal Charter, would provide the stability needed for businesses to plan and invest confidently," he said. This stability is crucial for fostering an environment where manufacturers can thrive, innovate, and contribute significantly to the economy.

Infrastructure

Jonathan expressed significant concern over the UK's track record in delivering major infrastructure projects, which he described as "a national embarrassment" due to their inefficiency and delays. He referenced HS2 as a notable example, pointing out that such projects often run behind schedule and over budget. This inefficiency, Jonathan believes, undermines the nation's ability to move forward, especially in critical areas such as energy and transport infrastructure. "We have to start delivering these big infrastructure projects efficiently, on time, and to plan," he stressed, pointing out that the lack of reliable infrastructure is a substantial barrier to the sector's growth and competitiveness.

Waste and Resource Management

The final major challenge Jonathan identified is the issue of waste - not in the traditional sense of physical waste but in terms of wasted resources and taxpayers' money. He criticised the current system for its inefficiencies, such as overuse of consultants and misallocation of funds, which he sees as draining valuable resources from where they are needed most. Jonathan argued for a more efficient and transparent use of resources, ensuring that government spending directly benefits the manufacturing sector rather than being lost in bureaucracy. "It's about how you spend that money efficiently and make sure as much of it as possible gets to where it needs to get to," he stated, highlighting the need for better governance and oversight in resource management.

The Vision of "Backing Britain"

The "Backing Britain" campaign holds special significance for Jonathan and Colchester Machine Tools. For him, this initiative represents a collective effort to support the wider manufacturing sector. As a manufacturer that directly supports such a significant proportion of the supply chain in the UK, and has in fact seen their domestic market share increase by 35% over the past few years, Backing Britain symbolises continued growth for Colchester.

The Need for a Dedicated Minister for Manufacturing

Jonathan whole heartedly supports the campaign calling for a dedicated minister manufacturing; he believes it would be instrumental in addressing the ongoing instability of industrial strategy. When talking about the stability this appointment would bring, Jonathan explained that it would not only provide focused oversight and advocacy within the government but also help in the strategic development of the industry.

"Having a dedicated minister to manufacturing and having an industrial strategy developed, like a royal charter - we have to wholeheartedly support this and get our weight behind it", emphasised Jonathan. He continued, "As engineers and as manufacturing companies, we like to have a plan. We like stability. We like to know where we're going", concluding, "when we know that, we can all align ourselves and work towards it."

In conclusion, Jonathan Wright's insights offer a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future prospects of the UK manufacturing sector. Through stable and consistent policies, strategic planning, and dedicated support, the sector can continue to be a cornerstone of the UK economy. The vision of "Backing Britain" and the call for a dedicated minister for manufacturing highlight the proactive steps needed to secure the future of UK manufacturing.

Made in Group is a trade organisation that helps elevate manufacturing businesses' online presence whilst giving them a platform to connect and share ideas. Dedicated to uniting British industry, the UK collective relies on its members to help them amplify their voice for manufacturing and showcase the critical role of industry leaders in shaping the nation's future.

Sign the pledge now > Backing Britain pledge.

Join us in Westminster on 5th December to present the Backing Britain manifesto to the government. Register now.

Register for the Summer Stock Clearance Event

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 09/05/2025

Our Summer Stock Clearance Event promises to be unmissable with scorching deals and live machine demos taking place throughout the day.

There will be machines on offer from all machining categories, including CNC milling, CNC turning, manual turning machines & permanent laser marking.

Join us between 08:30 - 16:30 on Wednesday 11th June 2025 at our European Technology Centre in Elland, West Yorkshire.

Refreshments will be available throughout the day.

View the full list of available stock machines and register your attendance here – https://www.colchester.co.uk/news/summer-stock-clearance-event

Introducing the new Colchester Student CNC Lathe

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 13/07/2023

The compact Colchester Student CNC lathe is designed and engineered in the UK using the same construction as the market leading Colchester Student.

Fitted with the latest Fanuc CNC controls gives the user ultimate flexibility in programming, including ISO, conversational Manual Guide i, or via CAD/CAM. Ideally suited for education and industrial applications.

Designed for fast, high-quality repeatability, accuracy and surface finish to exacting toolroom accuracy standards (DIN 8605), which ultimately significantly reduces component production costs.

Standard Features

• FANUC 0i-TF Plus CNC control system with 10.4” colour screen
• Manual Guide I conversational programming system
• Alpha Link CAD/CAM offline programming software
• PBI Super Precision 3-Jaw scroll chuck
• Dickson quick change tool post and tool holders
• Automatic slideways and ballscrew lubrication system
• Manual tailstock
• Coolant pump system
• Machine work light
• Easy access to work zone
• Compact footprint
• Automation ready
• Industry 4.0 ready
• Easy installation

Optional Features

• Tooling packs
• 4-jaw independent chuck options
• Travelling and stationary steady rests
• Extended warranty contracts
• Service / maintenance contracts

For more information click here - https://www.colchester.co.uk/products/turning/cnc-manual-combination-lathes/colchester-student-cnc/

Powering Up Productivity: Made in Yorkshire Visits Colchester Machine Tool’s Innovation Showcase

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 08/11/2024

Sam Sleight and Curtis Stennett from Made in Yorkshire recently attended Colchester Machine Tool Solutions' Open House, a day filled with impressive product demonstrations and valuable insights into how UK manufacturers can benefit from the latest in machining and automation technologies. Hosted at Colchester’s European Technology Centre, the event highlighted their commitment to driving productivity for SMEs and showcased a broad range of advanced machines that cater to both industrial and educational sectors.

Upon arrival, Sam and Curt were warmly greeted by Colchester’s team, led by Managing Director Jonathan Wright, who provided an insightful tour of the different machines on display. The lineup included the renowned Colchester Flatbed manual machines, including models like the Mastiff and Magnum, which are essential fixtures in sectors such as power generation and oil and gas. With lengths up to 12 meters, these machines demonstrated Colchester’s dedication to delivering heavy-duty, versatile equipment that stands the test of time.

Moving into CNC technology, the Alpha range of CNC lathes was an eye-opener, particularly for its innovative hybrid control system. Jonathan explained how the Alpha system enables users to operate these machines in manual mode, making them accessible even to those with limited CNC experience. This feature was especially relevant given the skills shortage many manufacturing SMEs face. The hybrid system allows operators to start with manual controls and transition to CNC programming, providing a flexible solution for manufacturers working to upskill their teams while maximising output.

One of the standout attractions was Colchester’s 3-axis machining center with an integrated robotic system. Colchester are working in partnership with Rocksteady Group to offer this complete package which includes the zerocob machine tending robot. Managing Director and founder of Rocksteady, Mark Young talked Sam through the technical capabilities of this complete package.

Both Jon and Mark highlighted the fact that this system is aimed at SMEs looking to optimise efficiency by running lights-out production overnight, while human operators handle complex tasks during the day. Priced competitively at £130k, this package can be significantly reduced in cost through the UK government’s Full Expensing Scheme as well, which allows companies to deduct 100% of capital equipment costs from their taxable profits. With a potential 25% tax relief for profitable businesses, this incentive brings advanced automation well within reach for smaller manufacturers.

For high-precision operations, Colchester showcased the Bridgeport 5-axis CNC machine, ideal for intricate designs often required in aerospace and automotive manufacturing. The machine’s multi-axis capability allows complex parts to be machined without repositioning, saving both time and resources—a critical advantage for companies aiming to maintain tight production schedules.

The day concluded with a look at Colchester’s automated laser marking systems, a must for industries where part traceability is paramount. Sam and Curtis saw how these machines, designed to permanently mark parts, provide a reliable solution for aerospace and medical sectors that demand precise, durable labeling.

With tools like the Full Expensing Scheme making capex investments more accessible, UK manufacturers have a clear path to boost productivity, tackle skills shortages, and drive sustainable growth. Colchester Machine Tool Solutions exemplifies how embracing these innovations can create a brighter future for manufacturing in the UK.

About Colchester Machine Tool Solutions

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 14/08/2020

If you’re an engineer, it’s probably safe to assume that at some point in your career you’ll have worked on a Colchester lathe. Acquired in the 1950s by the 600 Group, a manufacturing organisation with a world-class reputation, the Colchester name is regarded globally as a benchmark for quality and reliability.
Today, both the 600 Group and Colchester Machine Tool Solutions are recognised globally. The group has 400 distributors spanning 50 countries. Operating across a diverse range of markets, across a vast array of industrial sectors, including automotive, manufacturing, defence, power generation, oil & gas and medical. There are currently more than 100,000 Colchester lathes in operation worldwide.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is home to market-leading machine tool brands including Harrison, Colchester, Clausing, Pratt Burnerd and TYKMA Electrox, but much more than that they are a provider of solutions.
A successful history and strong working relationships with customers from a variety of industries, means Colchester has a unique understanding of manufacturing challenges and offer tailored solutions that customers not only count on for tailored and off-the-shelf machine tools, but also one they can turn to for industry-leading standards of service, machine tools training, extended warranties, tailored finance packages, rapid spare parts delivery and outstanding support.

Colchester’s home is a 58,000sqm purpose built site in Elland, West Yorkshire which boasts an extensive showroom equipped for machining demonstrations across the full product range; R & D facilities; spares and workholding stores with a value in excess of £5million, facilities for operator training, product development and small batch production, a machine-build centre and a dedicated classroom for training and applications support.

In conjunction with the customer service focus, another key aim of Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is to provide customers with innovative solutions to, this can be found in Colchester’s commitment to continuously developing the offering in both new machines and working with carefully selected partners to meet the diverse and ever changing needs of industry.
More information about Colchester’s innovation and 2020 product launches and future plans can be found at https://www.colchester.co.uk/media/press/

Full video on our history -

The Harrison Alpha celebrate 25 years in industry

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 02/09/2020

The Alpha CNC combination lathe has been the number one choice in industry since its launch in 1995, the simplest CNC to operate in the world designed for fast, high-quality repeatability, accuracy. Now into Generation 6 the Alpha features interpolating C Axis and Driven Tools, large working envelope and Next Generation Oi-TF+ Fanuc control system.

With an extended range of models and bed lengths available, this extremely diverse machine is suited to a variety of industries.

Available for viewing and lives demonstrations with Colchesters applications engineers or available for immediate delivery.

Sales Director Paul Rushworth discussed the new Alpha Generation 6 with MTD CNC -

TJM Capital Partners (TJM) Has Purchased the Machine Tool Solutions Division of the UK’s 600 Group

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 03/05/2022

TJM Capital, a private equity investment firm focusing on lower and middle-market growth businesses has purchased the Machine Tool Solutions Division of the UK’s 600 Group. This acquisition includes Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, with offices in the UK, Germany, and Australia, and Clausing Industrial, Inc., headquartered in Michigan. “The Machine Tool Solutions Division is a perfect fit with our growth strategy,” according to TJM Chairman Tom McDonough. “These companies supply well-known, high-quality products for metalworking applications, and give us scope to provide more solutions to our customers,” said McDonough.

The Machine Tool Solutions Division has a strong reputation in the market for metal turning machines. Products range from small conventional machines for education markets, CNC workshop machines and CNC production machines. Incoming CEO Micah Coleman stated, “Our customers remain the Group’s highest focus. The addition of this new technology continues to build on our vision to become the partner of choice for complete manufacturing solutions.” Mr. Coleman also serves as CEO of Timesavers LLC, Midwest Automation, and Dubois Equipment Company.

The strong leadership teams at both Colchester Machine Tool Solutions & Clausing Industrial will remain in their current roles under new ownership. Jonathan Wright, Managing Director of Colchester, and Kevin Mungovan, President of Clausing Industrial, have a combined 50 years in the Machine Tools industry and will continue to lead their respective companies.

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions has been trusted in the industry for over 100 years and continue to supply machine tools which are renowned for high quality and performance across various market sectors. Recent growth in the UK market has led to the necessary appointment of additional sales support staff. UK Managing Director Jonathan Wright said, “The recent acquisition of Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is exciting for the continued growth and expansion of the company and we look forward to the future under the new ownership.”

The acquisition closed on April 8th, 2022.

About TJM Capital Partners
Founded in 2008, TJM is a private investment firm that invests in established middle and lower middle-market businesses looking to substantially grow and realize shareholder value. TJM has a fully supported management team backed by a select group of committed capital sources – including family offices, high net worth individuals, and a diverse set of first-generation (G1) investors – as a different type of private investment firm. www.tjmcapitalpartners.com

About Timesavers LLC
For seventy-five years, Timesavers has been producing widebelt abrasive finishing machines for surfacing wood, metal, plastics and a wide range of other materials. Timesavers is a pioneer in sanding technology for the woodworking and machine tool industries and has the largest worldwide installed base of machines. Superior product performance, exceptional customer service, and unequalled technical field support service makes Timesavers the market leader. www.timesaversinc.com

Local Collaboration to provide integrated automation

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 02/06/2021

Local collaboration to provide integrated automation

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions and locally based automation specialist, Olympus Technologies are collaborating to provide fully integrated permanent laser marking with automated robotic arm.

Colchester’s range of TYKMA Electrox industrial laser engraving machines offer permanent laser marking for identification, bespoke design and traceability.
The machines’ ability to mark almost any material, surface and composition makes them suited to a wide variety of industries and applications.
Available in a range of sizes, from compact desktop units to larger free standing units’ with expansive marking areas and custom builds which offer an almost limitless marking with 3 and 4 axis variations.

Olympus Technologies is an innovative robotic integrator, specialising in delivering high quality bespoke turnkey projects across multiple sectors, as well as creating ‘off the shelf’ robotic solutions for common business processes, including welding, palletising and laser marking.

The collaboration is a result of a world leading manufacturer of high spec engine components requiring a turnkey solution for their application.
Their application consists of permanent marking and verification of large volume manufactured components.
The project was to replace manual acid etching system for marking 2D code and serial numbers, which was extremely labour intensive and often resulted in low quality code which was difficult to read with a barcode scanner, an essential part of the process.

Colchester provided a LaserGear BOQX a low cost, high spec laser system to replace the acid etch code. Olympus Technologies then integrated the laser into their specialised production cell which processes trays of components from start to finish with the single press of a button.

The robot communicates with the laser for the entire marking process including opening the door, picking and placing the component and setting the correct focal height. The robot selects the correct template, initiates the mark and on completion removes and verifies the component, all without the need for operator input.

The system is based on communication through the lasers Icon interface software and a bespoke programme written by Olympus.

With an expected life span of 100,00 marking hours from the laser and the reliability of the fully automated system, this bespoke manufacturing cell should provide reliability and cost savings for the customer for many years to come.

Automation and integration is extremely accessible and inclusive, with cost-effective entry level cells including a laser marking machine and robotic arm available to buy as off-the-shelf products. All cells come with full installation and training as standard alongside Colchester’s full service and support.
Key benefits of adding automation to the process include speed, consistency and capacity ideal for batch production applications. There is no requirement for human involvement, allowing longer run cycles and the all-important and ever present social distancing.

Contact Colchester Machine Tool Solutions to discuss your application on 01924415000 / info@colchester.co.uk

Join us for our open house in October 2023

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 04/07/2023

Dates: Tuesday 10th October 2023 - Wednesday 11th October 2023

Time: 09:00 - 16:00

Location: Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, Lowfields Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, HX5 9DA, West Yorkshire

Join us for our first official open house in 4 years. We have several new product ranges to showcase, including Storm Vertical Machining Centres & Tornado CNC Turning Centres.

During the two-day event held on Tuesday 10 October & Wednesday 11 October at our European Technology Centre in West Yorkshire, there will be live product demonstrations and talks on our very latest product ranges.

Such as our new ranges of Storm Vertical Machining Centres & Tornado CNC Turning Centres, as well as turret mills and bespoke automated solutions!

Some of our partners present at the event include British Racing Motors (BRM), Cutwel, Heidenhain & Olympus Technologies.

Food & refreshment will be provided. Full event details and agenda to follow.

Please register your attendance here.

Take a tour of Colchester's new Virtual Showroom

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 20/07/2021

Come and see Colchester Machine Tool Solutions' newly-launched virtual showroom and explore their full product range, packed with product information, brochures & informative videos.

See their machines in the flesh, learn a little about their history and discover their full offering.

Take a seat in the training centre and find out why Colchester are committed to developing basic skills & knowledge of industry-standard machining processes.

Following their recent launch of machine shop monitoring software Connect600, the new virtual showroom demonstrates Colchester’s continued push into digitised solutions.

For more information and to get in touch, visit Colchester's microsite today. Alternatively you can use the contact form within the virtual showroom experience if you have a question about a specific product.

Only 3 weeks until Colchester Machine Tool Solutions’ open house

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 18/09/2023

Only 3 weeks until Colchester Machine Tool Solutions’ open house

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions are hosting a two-day open house on Tuesday 10 October & Wednesday 11 October at their European Technology Centre in Elland, West Yorkshire. This is their first open house in 4 years, so naturally, a whole host of new products to showcase!

The open house signals a new slate of products on offer from Colchester, who have been trusted in the industry for over 100 years. Across the two-day event, there will be live product demonstrations and talks on all their very latest product ranges, as well as refreshments, goodies and a special prize giveaway!

Leading the new line-up is the Storm Vertical Machining Centre range, offering linear guideways, box ways & compact toolroom machine variants, all capable of heavy-duty and precise machining.

2023 marks the 30^th anniversary of Tornado CNC Turning Centres and this year, Colchester have brought them back better than ever in new and modern configurations to give you exceptional rigidity and accuracy for any machining project.

The Colchester Student centre lathe is known throughout the industry to many as the ultimate training and apprentice’s machine tool. This year, Colchester are releasing the Student CNC lathe, a modernised variant proudly designed and engineered in the UK and fitted with the latest Fanuc CNC controls, giving the user ultimate flexibility in programming, including ISO, conversational Manual Guide i, or via CAD/CAM.

Also on display will be new CNC and manual turret mills, providing extensive reliability, accuracy and versatility for small to medium size production runs. Colchester’s automation partner Olympus Technologies will be present to demonstrate their bespoke automation solutions in tandem with Colchester’s Storm VMCs, which are automation & Industry 4.0 ready.

To complete the line-up, Colchester’s renowned range of Manual Centre Lathes and Alpha CNC/Manual Combination Lathes will be on display too.

If seeing Colchester’s new range of products wasn’t enough, courtesy of British Racing Motors & Silverstone Museum, one lucky open house attendee will win a family ticket (up to 2 adults & 2 children) for the Silverstone Museum and a unique look at the BRM archive materials & trophy collection (subject to availability). This is a special tour that a standard ticket can't provide! To win, all you have to do is attend the open house on either day to be entered into the prize draw.

Register your attendance here – https://www.colchester.co.uk/media/events/october-2023-open-house/

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions' MIY Factory Tour Event 2025

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions — 19/11/2025

The future of machining isn’t defined by CNC technology alone — it’s shaped by the people who operate it and pass their expertise on. That belief sat at the heart of the final Made in Yorkshire factory tour event of 2025, hosted here at Colchester Machine Tool Solutions.

We welcomed 40 industry professionals to our European Technology Centre in Elland, ranging from Managing Directors and Operations Leaders to Sales Managers and Engineering Apprentices. With barista coffee in hand, guests settled into relaxed networking before the morning officially began.

Welcome & Setting the Scene

Our Managing Director, Jonathan Wright, opened the event by sharing a brief overview of who we are today. With more than a century of heritage behind the Colchester, Harrison and Pratt Burnerd brands, and over 100,000 machines installed worldwide, Jonathan highlighted our continued commitment to dependable machine tools and long-term customer support.

He also touched on how our offering has evolved — including CNC and manual turning solutions, automation support, bespoke engineering work, and a spares and service operation backed by £4 million in stock. It set a clear tone for the day: heritage, innovation and support for British manufacturers.

Inside the Technology Centre

Guests were then taken onto the shopfloor for a guided tour of our live demonstration area. Engineers showcased conversational control, advanced G-code, manual turning and CNC capability, walking delegates through practical setup considerations, tooling, error reduction and ways to help both machinists and apprentices develop confidence quickly.

The message was clear: technology has never been more capable, but its value relies entirely on people being equipped to get the most from it. For anyone who couldn’t attend, our 3D Virtual Factory Tour offers the same peak inside our facilities, just online.

The Wider Workforce Picture

After the tour, the conversation broadened to the challenges shaping the machining workforce across the region. Manufacturing contributes £7.7bn to West Yorkshire’s economy, yet with an average skilled-worker age of 54, retirements are happening faster than new talent can replace them. Education providers face similar pressures, with limited machine time and curriculum demands affecting how work-ready young engineers can be.

These realities created the ideal lead-in to the morning’s interactive poll.

Live Skills Poll: What Manufacturers Told Us

In the final part of the event, Jonathan Wright and Mark Lewis, CEO of West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services, facilitated a live QR poll capturing real-time insight from the room.

Key findings included:

Skills remain the biggest long-term concern

Attendees ranked attracting and developing skilled people above all other future challenges, with rising operational costs close behind.

Only 10% feel 'very confident' in their future workforce

Most businesses feel only 'somewhat prepared' and acknowledged the need for clearer long-term planning.

Two-thirds have low confidence in the education system

Delegates praised young people’s enthusiasm but felt schools, colleges and universities are struggling to deliver industry-ready machining talent.

Soft skills matter most

Communication, teamwork and problem-solving ranked ahead of narrow technical ability — aligning closely with our own experience supporting machinists at Colchester.

The biggest barriers to training? Time, cost and awareness

Real-world commercial pressures, rather than lack of interest, are what hold businesses back.

These insights gave Mark the opportunity to introduce early thinking around a collaborative Training Academy being explored with Colchester and WYMS — a response that would certainly be welcomed by industry.

Final Thoughts

This event offered more than factory access — it created an honest space for manufacturers to discuss shared challenges and explore solutions together. The live poll added clarity, the demonstrations provided inspiration, and the early look at future training plans signalled practical support on the horizon.

Above all, the morning reaffirmed a shared commitment:

British manufacturers care deeply about their people — and we care deeply about British manufacturers.

If you couldn’t join us, you can still take a closer look at our facility through our 3D Virtual Factory Tour, available on our website.