Engineering has changed. Not so long ago, students would design a component in CAD, send it to the workshop and wait for it to be machined. Today, the process is far more connected. A physical part can be scanned in minutes, converted into an editable CAD model, redesigned for additive manufacturing, produced overnight and digitally [...]
SMART Manufacturing 2026 brought together manufacturers, engineers and technology providers from across the UK, providing a valuable opportunity to discuss the challenges, opportunities and priorities shaping the industry today. While conversations varied across sectors ranging from food production and packaging through to aerospace and advanced engineering, several common themes emerged throughout the event. What was [...]
For many manufacturers, one of the biggest barriers to keeping production moving isn't machining capacity, material availability, or even labour shortages. It's missing information. A component fails unexpectedly, but the original CAD model can't be found. A legacy assembly requires modification, yet the available drawings no longer reflect what is actually installed. A replacement part [...]
In many machine shops, CNC capacity is seen as a fixed limit - prompting investment in new machines or longer hours when demand rises. But a growing number of UK manufacturers are taking a different approach, rethinking which parts truly need machining and shifting suitable work to faster, more cost-effective technologies like additive manufacturing and [...]
As manufacturing becomes more data-driven, the ability to quickly capture accurate 3D data from real-world objects is becoming increasingly important. At MACH 2026, we'll be demonstrating how advanced 3D scanning from Artec 3D is helping engineers accelerate workflows across reverse engineering, inspection, and product development. With Artec specialists joining us on the stand, visitors will [...]
A new generation of mobile LiDAR scanning has arrived. The Artec Jet enables rapid, survey-grade 3D mapping of large environments, even in GPS-denied conditions. The launch of the Artec Jet from Artec 3D marks a significant step forward in how these environments can be digitised. What is the Artec Jet Mobile LiDAR Scanner? Designed as [...]
The Hidden Cost of Missing CAD Data In-house 3D scanning is becoming a critical capability for manufacturers looking to reduce downtime and regain control of legacy parts. When a component fails and no CAD file exists, production slows, engineers react, and outsourcing delays begin to stack up. In many manufacturing businesses, the biggest bottleneck isn’t [...]
If you're attending MACH 2026 and exploring how industrial 3D printing can be applied in real manufacturing environments, our stand is well worth a visit. This year we're focusing on one key question: How do you move from concept to strong, production-ready parts, quickly and reliably? At MACH, we'll be demonstrating exactly how manufacturers are [...]
In-house 3D scanning is becoming a core capability for manufacturers looking to reduce downtime, accelerate reverse engineering, and regain control of legacy parts. But beyond the concept, what does in-house 3D scanning actually look like inside a real engineering environment? Modern manufacturing runs on digital data. Yet in many facilities, critical parts still exist only [...]
The automotive industry is evolving faster than ever. Whether improving product performance, reducing lead times, solving supply-chain challenges, or acceleating R&D, digital workflows are now central to staying competitive. At the heart of this shift are two enabling technologies: high-resolution 3D scanning and industrial additive manfuacturing. Together they close the loop between physical and digital, [...]
