Sandvik Coromant has recently conducted courses on customer sites for several UK manufacturers in support of the training scheme promoted by the British Turned Parts Manufacturers Association (BTMA).
One such company, Precision Products, in Rustington, West Sussex, purchased two training sessions. Sixteen production operatives of various skill levels attended one of two sessions conducted by John Shaw, productivity centre manager and supported by Mick Fletcher, UK sales & technical training manager at the Precision Products’ premises.
“The feedback was very positive,” said Sam Cooke, works director for 45-employee Precision Products. “Everyone, even the most experienced guys learned something. I am in discussion with Sandvik Coromant about further tailored courses at a more advanced level structured to Precision Products needs”.
Mr Cooke wanted to train his production staff on the BTMA’s CNC Setter Training course, but the BTMA requires trainees to have completed a basic tooling module first. Mr Cooke therefore asked Sandvik Coromant to run a course on-site to avoid the loss of production time if all 16 travelled to Halesowen. Those who received training were programmers, with limited knowledge of cutting tool technology; and some were skilled/semiskilled operators. The course content is based on basic engineering principles and cutting tool applications.
“Even the more experienced guys learned something and felt it had been worthwhile,” explained Mr Cooke.
“I would certainly recommend this course. Before this training, we would have needed to contact the cutting tool manufacturer to help resolve problems, but this only resolves the present difficulty and does not skill our own people to select the best tool/insert next time. I think I shall give all the same people the follow-on course because I am sure it will improve their application knowledge and they will be better able to resolve future issues.”
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