Clayton Precision - Ejector Seats and Critical Components

“The new 5-axis machine has made a huge difference. It’s currently producing L168 aluminium components for ejector seats. The trunnion’s full simultaneous 5-axis motion has reduced the number of operations from eight to just two. It’s cut the previous cycle time by 25%, and the reduced number of setups has increased repeatable accuracy, maintaining conformity throughout the part run. 

“It goes without saying that accuracy is vital when you’re dealing with parts that save lives. Our inspection department maintains quality control. All testing equipment is calibrated to national standards and we operate a ‘Total Quality Management Policy’ with recorded inspection undertaken at every stage of the job.”

Haas Automation’s VF-2SS has 762 x 406 x 508mm travels, comes standard with a 12,000-rpm spindle, a 24+1 side-mount tool changer for tool changes that take less than 1.6 seconds tool to tool. High-pitch ballscrews and high-torque servo-motors provide rapids of 35m/min. 

Clayton Precision programs its Haas machines offline, using a combination of OneCNC and GibbsCAM. Programs are then transferred to the control via USB.

“Our parts are complex and tolerances are very tight, but having a robust and reliable process means we can still be strong and competitive.”

“Many of the large aerospace companies are sourcing a lot of parts from lower-cost regions. We have to focus on producing higher-value, more complicated parts and assemblies, and make the processes more efficient,” Mr van Jaarsveld says. 

“Willingness to invest in the necessary technology is paramount,” he stresses. “Without forward-looking commitment, ‘working smart’ would only be a goal around here, instead of a daily reality.”

“In the end, if we can use the latest technology to increase our work efficiency, we will,” emphasises Mr van Jaarsveld. “Similarly, if we can employ multi-axis equipment to reduce setups, or use 12,000 rpm machines, that is exactly what we’ll do. That’s how we’ve built a competitive edge, and how we’ve managed to grow our business 200% in the last three years,” he adds, with a smile.

“We’re not displacing anyone in our workforce,” Mr van Jaarsveld points out, “we’re enhancing them. Finding experienced CNC operators is getting harder and harder. We hire people we have faith in, and train them ourselves. Haas machines are easy to learn and easy to use – they’re much better organised and more intuitive than others.”

“We currently employ 28 staff, including two full time apprentices. Clayton has close connections with a new aerospace college in Feltham, opening later this year, so we’ll take on and train more as the business expands. Our objective is to increase our machining capacity as we increase our skilled staff. That’s how we’ll compete in the world market, and how we’ll be around for another 50 years.”