CDT Is Boosting Capacity of Plated Grinding Wheels and Dressing Tools
An electroplated grinding wheel completes machining on CDT’s new PUMA DNT 2600LM CNC Lathe.
At Continental Diamond Tool, we invest in cutting-edge technology, skilled professionals, and continuous improvement. We aim to be the world’s most reliable source for innovative, high-quality, customized precision grinding solutions, offering exceptional performance and long life. The market has responded, and the last several years we have experienced tremendous growth.
To meet growing demand, our manufacturing center in North Wales has recently acquired three new pieces of equipment, made possible in part by the Conwy – UK Shared Prosperity Grant. This strategic investment is set to significantly expand our production capabilities for the manufacture of electroplated grinding wheels and diamond rotary dressers.
The Journey of Investment
In Q3 2023, CDT Ltd. in the United Kingdom embarked on an ambitious venture with the introduction of a new product line at its facility: custom-engineered electroplated cBN and diamond grinding wheels and tools. To support this initiative, we purchased dedicated electroplating tanks, stripping lines, and specialized manufacturing equipment for product testing and prototyping. This setup has been essential in ensuring that these products maintain the same precision and quality customers expect from CDT.
Meanwhile, our Rotary Diamond Dressers line — the specialty of this business center — continues to thrive. Sharing machining equipment between this booming line and the growing orders for electroplated products has become a challenge. Additionally, we are starting to see strain in our inspection capacity with the increased demand for these two technologies.
Strategic Acquisitions for Expanding Production
The introduction of a Puma lathe, OGP SmartScope, and Doosan milling machine addresses these challenges and paves the way for sustainable growth, diversification, and more efficient delivery for our customers.
Puma DNT 2600LM CNC Lathe
The first new equipment delivery took place in May with the arrival of the Puma DNT 2600LM CNC Lathe. This piece of equipment is crucial to meet the increasing demand for electroplated products independently from our rotary diamond dressers. Having a dedicated Puma Lathe for plated products assists in the timely delivery of these high-quality tools to our customers without compromise.
OGP SmartScope
In June we received the OGP SmartScope, a revolutionary 3-axis video measurement system. The SmartScope E7, with its IntelliCentric™ fixed lens optical system, 6-megapixel camera, and 5-position digital zoom, delivers high-resolution images that are essential for precise metrology. This state-of-the-art equipment will expand our inspection capacity to maintain the high standards expected of our precision products.
Doosan Milling Machine
Delivered in early September, the Doosan Milling Machine completes our trio of new equipment purchased with the government grant. This addition further bolsters production, ensuring we have the capacity to meet growing demands and continue our commitment to excellence.
A CNC operator programs CDT’s new PUMA Lathe that was delivered and installed in May.
A CDT quality tech measures a coupon on the new OGP SmartScope that was delivered in June.
A technician operates CDT's Doosan Milling Machine that was delivered in September.
Impact and Future Prospects
With the Puma Lathe, OGP SmartScope, and Doosan Milling Machine now up and running, we are already seeing the benefits in our production processes. The ability to utilize these machines for Plated products independently of our Rotary Diamond Dressers line has optimized our workflow and improved our overall efficiency.
These investments also support a long term strategy for CDT Ltd. They not only address our current production challenges but also set the stage for future growth and diversification at this facility. As we continue to innovate and expand our capabilities, we remain committed to the timely delivery of the high-quality products our clients expect.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance our production capabilities and explore new horizons in the industry.
For more information on the Puma DNT 2600LM CNC Lathe, visit here.
Continental Diamond Tool Ltd., located in Kinmel Bay on the Western Coast of North Wales in the United Kingdom, is dedicated to providing top-tier superabrasive products for precision grinding and dressing.
At Continental Diamond Tool, we are excited about these investments and look forward to leveraging this equipment to further our mission of excellence in the industry. If you need a solutions provider for your precision grinding applications, please contact our sales team through our website contact form or call +44 1745-343951 (UK) / 1-800-443-6629 (USA).