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Project Summary:
Through the electronic interchange of data, based on 3D modelling, this project aims to adapt and transfer integrated transaction, design and manufacture from the automotive and aerospace industries into the valve casting supply chain. The project will maximise the use of CAD throughout the whole process, thus requiring improved communication and integrated electronic links between casting suppliers and valve manufacturers.

Project Partners:
Bestobell Valves Ltd
Brafe Engineering Ltd
BVAMA
Castings Technology International
Emco Wheaton UK Ltd
Flowserve International Ltd
Furniss & White (Foundries) Ltd
Gabrielle & Co Ltd
Noel Village (Steel Founder) Ltd
Northvale Korting Ltd
Norton Cast Products Ltd
Saint-Gobain Pipelines plc
Severn Glocon Ltd
Walter Frank & Sons Ltd
Weir Valves Controls Ltd

Need:

The UK valve casting and manufacturing sectors operate within an increasing global environment where rapid product development and component supply are key to successful business operations. With the advent of ecommunications and computer technology the once restrictive 'distance problems' have been removed and suppliers and producers can now readily become involved in markets on a worldwide basis.

The UK has seen the uptake of e-technology being easily introduced into the overseas producers and users, yet a similar activity has been almost resisted in the traditional UK companies. This has resulted in the UK valve manufacturing sector and their associated casting producers suffering significant market penetration from overseas, resulting in loss of business and manufacturing capabilities.

Solution:

The main objective of the project is to transfer integrated transaction, design and manufacture to the valve casting supply chain through seamless electronic interchange of data based on 3D modelling. This process, which is currently used by the automotive and aerospace industries, will be adapted and applied to achieve the best business advantage for the UK valve casting and valve manufacturing sectors.

The project will maximise the use of CAD throughout the whole process, which will require improved communication and integrated electronic links between the valve manufacturer and castings supplier. This will allow the exploitation of the full global market by the UK valve manufacturers and casting sector.

The demonstration activities will provide the opportunity for technology transfer and the support necessary to instigate a "culture change" in what is currently a traditional industry, with dissemination being achieved to at least 50% of the UK valve manufacturing and valve castings sector.

Anticipated Benefits:

The project will show how the use of a 3D model can:

• develop new or improved strategic relationships at sector, sub-sector and company level
• reduce cost, time and inaccuracy of transactions
• reduce time and cost to develop new products of superior quality and performance
• increase market share through import substitution and increased exports
• increase awareness and application of sector-specific technologies for product, process and service innovation