Case Studies

Refmet Ceramics are at the cutting edge of the ceramics business and are involved in coating steels with ceramics to improve the wear resistance. They responded to an approach by REACT offering assistance with grant applications. They were utilising a Kiln to heat up tools prior to applying a ceramic coating. The heating and cooling process, in the kiln takes a long time, and is in some cases, far too time consuming so they wanted to research alternative heating methods. REACT undertook an academic search contacting universities in the UK and Sweden to ascertain if there were other organisations utilising the new heating method and found that there were no others heating ceramics in this way. Over a three month period a detailed submission for a SMART award from the Department Of Trade and Industry (DTI) was compiled outlining how the award would help Refmet establish the feasibility of the process. "From the start REACT has been a tremendous support in guiding and advising us, and seeking appropriate funds for a project which, without their help, would never have been realised.” As a result of the application Refmet were awarded £45,000, which upon completion of the study should provide them with one of the most competitive advantages that the industry has known.

Speedsaws are a manufacturer of handsaws, bandsaws and other consumable cutting blades. REACT became involved with them to provide consultancy and project management for a Smart Award Project. This project involved creating an environment for improved quality of manufactured goods, which resulted in a fast, more efficient and cost effective production system. In order to qualify for the award there was need to upgrade the existing manufacturing facilities within the organisation by improving production. “None of this would have been possible without REACT’s support. It was they who knocked on the door and asked how they could help, and in no uncertain terms, they have.”

As part of an ongoing project expected to last up to a year, REACT has joined forces with Rotherham-based PMS Diecasting Limited to research and develop a revolutionary method of powder coating blades. REACT drafted a feasibility study that would look into the potential of the new method, including an assessment of elements such as the speed, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of setting up the new production system. Using the expertise gained from working with a number of local companies to help secure grants, REACT also took on the task of planning, preparing and writing up PMS Diecasting's detailed bid for funding support.