Ramsgate, Kent, United Kingdom (May 16, 2022) – Production is ramped up to full capacity on Flambeau’s new injection moulding machines, which are now processing plastic parts for Makita. Flambeau, a world-wide thermoplastics manufacturer, and Makita, a world-wide electric tool manufacturing company, are collaborating on the production of plastic case assemblies for Makita power tools such as planers, drills, grinders, and saws.

The demand for high-volume production of Makita cases in Ramsgate necessitated investment in seven (7) new injection moulding presses, ranging from 100- to 1000-tons in size, and an enhanced material handling system. Flambeau’s investment in the program also includes upgrades to several of the plant’s existing injection molding presses, which are relocated to make way for the new manufacturing cell. Additional new silos, drying systems, and material dosing units are also in place to complete the expansion of the plant’s manufacturing capabilities.

Overseas delivery delays that challenged the project along the way were negated by Flambeau increasing efforts to accelerate the installation and commissioning of the new machines, to integrate robotics, and to obtain sample approvals from Makita in a condensed timeframe. Flambeau’s associates in Ramsgate are now trained and achieving target output from the machines, which are simultaneously producing the components that make up the Makita assemblies.

This impactful Makita project at Flambeau’s plant in Ramsgate is enabling the facility to improve workflow for both present and future customer contracts. It is a sign that proven and efficient automated cells encourage the return of product and component manufacturing to the United Kingdom. Flambeau is committed to being a key partner with its OEM customers to make more of this happen, helping them avoid extended international supply chain disruption, save on shipping expense, reduce their carbon footprint, and eliminate import tariffs by sourcing product locally.