23.03.2020
Recognising the unprecedented challenging times, Ceratizit UK & Ireland has introduced several measures in support of those manufacturing companies responding the UK Government’s call for help in the production of ventilators.
Any customers already manufacturing components for ventilators, or any that are considering switching part of their capacity to this effort, are asked to contact their local Ceratizit UK & Ireland technical sales engineer, or the office directly (0800 073 2073) to discuss their specific tooling requirements. In return Ceratizit UK & Ireland will implement the following technical and commercial support on their account:
“We all have to do our bit during this pandemic, in the case of the engineering sector channelling resources to provide the vital equipment required to help treat those in hospital. We will provide support to those companies that have stepped forward to switch production to the production of vital parts for ventilators,” Tony Pennington, Managing Director, Ceratizit UK & Ireland.
31.03.2020
The ingenuity and willingness of engineers to find solutions was once again highlighted by Jonty Horn, who is the son of Chris Horn one of Ceratizit UK & Ireland’s Tool-o-Mat service engineers. Using his knowledge gained from a specialist 3D Printing forum, Jonty has responded to requests for Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for frontline National Health staff.
Over the weekend Jonty, accessed files to create the shields using Creality 3D printing technology and created his first prototypes, a lightweight and heavy-duty version, and approached his local Lincoln hospital to offer the shields to their staff. He also approached his local doctor’s surgery. “The initial reaction was apprehensive, but once we clarified there was absolutely no cost to them, the nurses were overjoyed! They have asked us to make the more substantial of the two so we shall commence straight away!” says Jonty.
The beauty of 3D printing is that the files can be shared so easily and inspired by what Jonty has achieved Ceratizit UK & Ireland’s two apprentices, Stephen Pennington and Alex Humberstone, who are studying at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in Sheffield have also taken up the challenge. With access to 3D printing technology they will begin manufacturing and offering the shields to local medical staff. Apart from access to the 3D printer all that is required are sheets of PLA, 150 micron sheets, elastic bands and a 5mm drill bit (or hole punch).
“3D printing the holder for the plastic face shield takes around two hours on Jonty’s Creality printer so we can’t make too many,” says Chris Horn. “However, if more people, like Stephen and Alexander get involved a little will turn into a lot and we can make a difference for our key workers in the NHS in the fight against Coronavirus.”