CA Models’ operations director Gregory Campbell, said: “If Covid has taught us anything, it’s that we must all adapt to survive. This investment ensures we can help our customers adapt to future challenges faster than ever.
“Together, the world has overcome global shortages in respirators and PPE, something we were proud to play our small part in for NHS Scotland. Covid has made us realise that challenges can come out of nowhere in an instant, and we need to work with the mindset that solutions should be accessible just as quickly.
“This approach underpins our recent investment and ensures we have the technology, team and training to provide our clients with solutions to any product design challenge faster and more efficiently than ever before.”
CA Models has just taken ownership of two new 3D Systems Figure 4 printers. This adds digital light printing (DLP) to its extensive list of on-site services, including SLA, SLS, FDM, Metal AM (LPBF), CNC machining and precision engineering, inspection, model shop, painting, finishing and specialist coatings.
As a true alternative to injection moulding, Figure 4-DLP technology can reduce the product design process from months to days. With no tooling, the speed, accuracy and agility of Figure 4 fits exactly in line with CA Models’ vision to provide faster more flexible solutions to unpredictable future challenges.
By printing directly in production grade plastic PRO-BLK 10, and HI TEMP 300-AMB which can withstand at least 300˚C, product designers can test prototypes that are true to the final product. Design changes can then be made digitally in seconds based on test findings, and Figure 4-DLP can move directly into full production runs. No waiting for tools.
Team development has also been a focus for investment. In addition to training in new technologies such as Figure 4, CA Models has recruited four new staff. The additions include John Horne as Metal AM Engineer, new graduate Erin Scott as trainee 3D Printing Engineer, and two apprentices: Keir Currie (Painting & Finishing) and Daniel McIvor (Inspection).
Campbell continued: “Opening our doors more than 38 years ago, we already have one of the deepest pools of experience in the industry, but there’s no future without new people. Taking on new graduates and apprentices is important to us, especially after last year.
“It not only creates jobs locally and nationally but enables us to develop experts from day one. As a market leader with aerospace, Formula 1 and defence contracts to name a few, it’s crucial we maintain our high standards as we grow.
“This way, we can impart our expertise as we train staff, and they can shape the future of the business as they advance. It’s a really rewarding system.”
Having set a clear post-pandemic direction, CA Models is excited to utilise its growing team and range of technologies to help customers rise to challenges faster and more flexibly in 2021, and beyond.
