Investment installation goes ahead following lockdown changes

A Skelton engineering firm is boring ahead with its £500k investment plans after the COVID-19 lockdown threatened to halt operations.

Tees Components had already begun installing its brand new precision boring mill in March, before foundation works were put on hold for three weeks because of government guidance in response to the pandemic.

Having undertaken a new risk assessment and implementing additional safety measures to reduce the risk of virus transmission, civil engineering works have re-started. Installation of the machine is planned for mid-May, with operations commencing at the end of the month.

The technology will enable the firm to double its CNC boring and milling capacity when used alongside its existing horizontal borer, which has been operational since 2016.

It means Tees Components can offer an improved delivery on its projects, which cover a range of OEM clients in defence and power generation sectors.

It worked closely with mill supplier, Sheffield-based TW Ward CNC Machinery Ltd, to incorporate stringent coronavirus protection protocols, developing a programme of additional hygiene and safety measures alongside those put in place prior to the lockdown.

Sharon Lane, managing director of Tees Components, said: “The additional capacity created by the installation of the new horizontal borer will support the delivery of our pipeline of projects.

“We are confident in our business and committed to continue with this investment despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. We are demonstrating to our customers that we have the capabilities and can be highly adaptable to meet their needs.

“We are really grateful for the cooperation of the team at TW Ward who were very flexible and attentive to our updated health and safety working practices to ensure that the installation could be completed efficiently.”