Mobile energy firm Conductix-Wampfler UK has secured a six-figure contract to deliver a specialised system to power machinery at a state-of-the-art factory in Newcastle’s Tyneside.
The Salford business is a world leading manufacturer of power and data transfer systems. It is part of the global Conductix-Wampfler Group and owned by the €800million turnover Delachaux Group.
The deal with Bridon, the global technology leader in the manufacture of steel wire rope, will see the delivery of a tailor made trench cover and conductor bar system. The new factory in the Neptune Energy Park will produce the largest and most complex multi-strand ropes in the world for a variety of offshore, mining and crane applications.
Conductix-Wampfler UK managing director Alan Jones said: “We are delighted to have secured this deal. It’s a terrific start to 2012 and it helps to set the tone for the New Year. Our UK sales are strong and consistent and the automation sector will play a key role in driving future growth.
“This latest contract with Bridon helps to demonstrate our experience and expertise in delivering a complete engineering solution for energy and data supply projects. The project presented a number of issues, requiring a large amount of engineering work in a restricted space. Our team of project managers and design specialists carried out a number of site visits before creating plans for a bespoke modular steelwork structure. This will see our trenchguard and conductor bar systems being used together for the first time.
“The work will involve a conductor bar being placed underground in a 300 metre trench. It will be protected by a flexible cover capable of withstanding the weight of a 25 tonne forklift truck. This cover can be lifted and replaced to access the conductor bar to power machinery.”
CEO of the Bridon Group Jon Templeman said: “The ropes produced at this state of the art facility will expand the boundaries of the possible for customers across the sector. Bridon Neptune Quay has been built to help us solve our customers’ most significant technological challenges.
“This factory, which is the most advanced of its kind ever built, is a crucial part of Bridon’s work to become the global technology leader in wire and rope solutions for offshore, mining and crane applications”
Conductix-Wampfler, which manufactures at its Salford site is due to begin work at the Tyneside factory this month (FEB). Another recent deal in the automation sector saw the firm installing power supply systems to forklifts at the Heinz storage and distribution warehouse in Wigan.
Mr Jones said: “It’s a very exciting time. The firm is growing rapidly boosted by strong international trade. Contracts over the last 12 months have included projects in Canada, India, China and Africa. Further deals in the pipeline could see us delivering mobile energy and data transfer systems in South America and Asia.”
Conductix-Wampfler UK’s turnover grew by 20pc in the 2011 calendar year surging to more than £5m.