A New Dugard VMC at Wessex

We have recently invested in a new Dugard 2000XP Vertical Machining Centre. It's aim; to increase and improve our production output.

A VMC (Vertical Machining Centre) is used to take raw materials (most commonly, metals) and shape, cut, drill, and otherwise 'machine them' to purpose.

We currently have a smaller VMC which does the same thing as this new Dugard 2000XP but with far less capacity, smaller bed size, and slower spindle speed. It is used to machine everything from the largest of side panel box sections on our lifts to the housings of smaller, internal components.

"It's an exciting time, as we're going to be able to increase our control of machined parts by bringing the production in-house", said the project coordinator, "this machine allows us to have a lot more control of timing and production capacity will be greatly increased to keep up with demand."

There has been a lot of preparation for the arrival of this Dugard machine. "We actually ordered the machine in October 2021, but it was delayed due to global supply chain issues."

The delays haven't been the only logistical hurdles, "the machine is 14.8 tonnes [slightly lighter than a modern double decker bus] and has a very large footprint. We have therefore had to go to some great lengths to accomodate it, including knocking down a wall in our warehouse and rebuilding a temporary opening for it!"

The machine arrived this week, and will be machining at full capacity by the start of next week.