— Charlie Martin , racing driver

pre-owned machine tools – has watched as machining has changed and adapted to modern needs . Newer processes like additive machining and 3D printing are becoming increasingly prevalent as we become more reliant upon computer processes , but there is a downside to this .

“ One adverse effect from the growth of CNC is that a lot of hard-learned skills and knowledge are sadly being lost ,” Martin admits . “ Younger generations are taught more computer-based skills sets and more hands-on skills are being lost as older generations retire .”

This may be true , but it ’ s unavoidable for one technical skill to be overtaken by another . CNC evolves so quickly that , according to Dodd , even machines bought as recently as five years ago may be unable to keep up with today ’ s client demands . The latest machines need to be more complicated with increased movement , travel and articulation , and that , of course , leads to improved efficiency . “ If someone rings me up with a problem that I can solve , I draw up the plans and within an hour or so , it ’ s ready and available to test ,” says Dodd .

Martin ’ s family business has been particularly busy with CNC machine sales lately as the rest of Europe takes advantage of the weak sterling , and she is certain the sector will only grow from here . Second-hand machines are increasingly affordable to potential users who had previously seen CNC as too expensive a process for them , and businesses which were relatively unknown are enjoying the prestige that comes with working in motorsport . For example , Grand View Research Inc .’ s survey showed that one of

36 June 2018