Trox invests in plant, Six Sigma and kaizen

The programme at Trox UK has involved investment of £600,000 in CAM equipment, including an advanced technology panel bending machine. Providing a high-tech alternative to the factory's existing press brakes, the new machine creates components for the company's range of chilled beams in a third of the time, and with greater repeatability, accuracy and quality. The new machine gives Trox the option of manufacturing in either aluminium or steel, with the flexibility to create chilled beam fascias of different designs. The move is expected to offer customers reduced leadtimes, particularly where the chilled beam involves a bespoke or architect-inspired fascia. This is the final phase in an extensive programme of investment which began in 2007. Earlier phases have involved the installation of two fully-automated punch presses which have increased production capacity at the factory by around 60%. Chief Operating Officer, Ian Sams, said that while the new equipment was the most visible outcome of the investment programme, it was just one part of an overall project that included a significant figure being dedicated to workforce training including skills development in Six Sigma. "The greatest investment of all is coming from Trox employees, through their involvement in activities such as Kaizen," he added.