B-Tek Precision Engineering aims for highest precision EDM work and targets growth

The new set-up, which boasts six EDM machines, is based in Princes Street, Sheffield - Pro-Spark's former premises, and will be headed up by Steve Batt, who boasts 20+ years' experience in the EDM sector. The company claims to have the largest capacity wire EDM machine in the UK, an Agie Charmilles Progress 4, with this backed by a further two Progress 3 machines, which although slightly smaller, are still also quite large. The operation has been set up to focus on delivering the highest levels of quality and service of subcontract wire and spark erosion to the UK's aerospace, medical, oil and gas and motor sport industries. "Our business now consists of six EDM machines and we believe we have the largest EDM capacity in the UK," Mr Batt explained. "We feel it's only right that the UK's front line manufacturers receive first class support from subcontractors like B-Tek. However, that can only happen when SMEs like B-Tek fully understand the importance of delivering quality products and services on time. Having been involved with first tier manufacturers, we have a deep appreciation of our customers' requirements. "We believe we are entering into an incredibly exciting period of the economic cycle. From the man-in-the-street to Westminster, 'Manufacturing' is being hailed as a possible saviour of the UK economy. Consequently, we plan to grow our business, both organically and by acquisition, over the next three years to create the UK's first and only group of EDM companies. Our ultimate objective is to consistently provide industry the highest levels of quality and service the length and breadth of the UK." The company's proud boast to be the leading EDM facility in the UK is backed by recent success. B-Tek is currently manufacturing critical space industry components, due to be fitted into a satellite to be launched in the near future. B-Tek reports that client had tried other EDM companies, but none of them was able to manufacture the parts to the tolerances required.