The recent investment by B Hepworth & Co in two new DN Solutions multi-tasking lathes marks a significant shift in their manufacturing strategy, particularly for small turned part production. These machines, integrated into highly customised automated cells by Mills CNC, are set ...
The recent investment by B Hepworth & Co in two new DN Solutions multi-tasking lathes marks a significant shift in their manufacturing strategy, particularly for small turned part production. These machines, integrated into highly customised automated cells by Mills CNC, are set to transform the company's machining operations in Redditch. The new cells, equipped with advanced material handling systems and the latest Fanuc controls, promise to boost productivity and process efficiency. This is crucial for a company like B Hepworth, which produces thousands of parts daily for its marine, rail, and defence wiper systems. The ability to automate the loading and extraction of parts, coupled with the precision of the new lathes, will help maintain the high tolerances and intricate features required for their components.
For UK engineers, the takeaway is clear: automation and multi-tasking capabilities are no longer optional but essential for staying competitive. The new cells at B Hepworth exemplify how integrating advanced machine tools can streamline operations, reduce reliance on external suppliers, and improve lead times. This is particularly important in sectors like defence and natural resources, where demand is high and quality cannot be compromised. The investment also highlights the importance of strategic partnerships with machine tool suppliers who understand the nuances of specific manufacturing challenges.
Why should you care? Because the future of small part production lies in automation and multi-tasking, and those who adapt will gain a significant edge in efficiency and quality.
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B Hepworth & Co, a established manufacturer of bespoke windscreen wiping systems for marine, rail, and defence sectors, has invested in two new DN Solutions multi-tasking lathes from Mills CNC. These machines, installed in December 2025, form the core of two highly customised automated manufacturing cells designed by Mills CNC's application engineers in collaboration with B Hepworth's technical and commercial teams. The cells incorporate advanced material loading and finished part extraction capabilities, significantly boosting productivity and process efficiencies for the company's small turned part machining operations.
The machines are equipped with the latest Fanuc 0iTP control systems and have been integrated with HydraFeed X-Files-s bar feeders. The larger cell also features the novel HydraFeed 'Return Speed' workpiece extraction system, which automatically removes machined parts through the lathe's sub-spindle and transfers them to a high-capacity storage magazine. These cells are designed to handle small batches, typically up to 30 pieces, of small diameter, variable length components used in B Hepworth's marine and rail wiper systems. The parts are machined from solid bar stock, including materials like mild steel, stainless steels, brass, and occasionally exotic alloys, with high tolerances of +/- 0.2mm, intricate features such as splines, threads, and keyways, and super fine surface finishes (Ra 0.2µm).
The investment in these automated cells addresses several challenges faced by B Hepworth & Co. The company produces thousands of machined and fabricated parts daily, and the new cells are crucial for meeting their small turned part production requirements. Edward Eddy, Commercial Director at B Hepworth & Co, emphasised the importance of these cells, stating that they are pivotal in achieving the company's production goals. The cells also support the company's aftermarket operations, which include supplying wear and replacement parts and providing servicing and maintenance.
B Hepworth & Co's investment in these machines is driven by the need to maintain well-engineered standards and control manufacturing costs while meeting growing demand. The company has a history of investing in advanced technologies to improve efficiency and productivity. In 2021, they acquired a compact Lynx lathe to enhance their small turned part processing, and since 2024, they have been working with Mills CNC to explore further improvements. The decision to replace older lathes with these new automated cells was based on the need to overcome issues with machine reliability and the loss of experienced staff who were familiar with the older equipment.
The new cells allow B Hepworth & Co to bring back in-house the production of turned parts that were previously subcontracted, improving lead time fulfilment and customer service. This strategic move aligns with the company's commitment to continuous improvement and data-driven planning, ensuring they can meet their growth targets and maintain their reputation for well-engineered and reliable wiper systems.
The installation of these automated manufacturing cells highlights the growing trend of integrating advanced machine tool technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing sector. Mills CNC's expertise in turnkey solutions and small turned part batch processing has been instrumental in helping B Hepworth & Co achieve these improvements.
For more information about these automated manufacturing cells or to discuss similar solutions for your operations, contact Mills CNC. The new cells are now operational at B Hepworth & Co's Redditch facility, demonstrating the immediate impact of this investment on their production capabilities.
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