Nationwide fabricator Shelforce has boosted its production capacity by adding three new machines from leading machinery specialist Haffner. This strategic investment enables the company to meet the surging demand for its products, particularly in local authority and commercial contracts, ensuring greater efficiency and productivity.
Following careful market research, Shelforce selected Haffner as its machinery partner. Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce, said: “We evaluated multiple providers based on key factors such as machinery capabilities, service support and availability of parts. Haffner emerged as the clear leader, not only for the impressive capabilities of its machinery but also for its consultative approach, which proved invaluable in guiding us towards the best investment for our specific needs.”
The company has invested in cutting-edge automation with three advanced machines to enhance efficiency and manufacturing precision. The SBA-4 Profile Machining Centre fully automates the cutting and machining of PVC-U profiles, streamlining production with minimal manual intervention. The SMR 5 Five Head Welding Machine ensures high-precision welding of corners, transoms and cruciforms, significantly improving consistency and speed. Meanwhile, the new FMC 120 CNC Machining Centre automates drilling and milling operations on aluminium profiles, optimising accuracy and productivity.
The addition of the SBA-4 has enabled Shelforce to boost window production by 800 frames per week, while the FMC 120 has increased fire door output by an additional 100 units per week. Howard Trotter highlights the broader impact: “Not only have we significantly increased production, but we’ve also enhanced overall factory efficiency and staff productivity. The SBA-4’s automation of cutting and machining processes means we now require just one operator, streamlining workflow and optimising output.”
Birmingham-based Shelforce, established in 1839, is an award-winning manufacturer and installer of high-quality PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors. Specialising in local authority building projects and government tenders, Shelforce is renowned for its excellence in both product quality and service. The company has received multiple accolades for its business practices, including the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of its commitment to promoting opportunity.
Haffner is the UK’s leading supplier of machinery to the fenestration industry, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality fabrication solutions. As the sole UK agent for Graf Synergy, renowned globally for its seamless welding technology, Haffner also provides an extensive selection of advanced machinery from Fom Industrie, a leader in precision-engineered aluminium solutions. In addition to its own Haffner machinery, the company has built its reputation on helping customers harness the full potential of automation, driving efficiency, precision and productivity across the industry.
Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, concluded: “We were delighted that Shelforce selected us as their machinery partner and even more pleased that they are already experiencing the benefits of machine automation. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and success.”
