Tees Components Unveils new Advanced CNC Machine Tool, Signalling Growth in Energy, Defence, and Marine Sectors

Tees Components is proud to announce the commissioning of its latest investment in advanced manufacturing technology—the Hartford PBM135C horizontal boring and milling machine. This state-of-the-art equipment enhances the company’s capacity to deliver precision-engineered components for the energy, defence, and marine industries.

The Hartford PBM135C boasts a substantial table size of 1,800 x 2,000 mm and can accommodate work-pieces up to 15,000 kg. Its advanced design ensures high precision and efficiency in machining large components. The machine's robust design and AI-integrated Hartrol Premium controller contribute to its superior performance and reliability.

This significant investment not only augments Tees Components’ machining capabilities but also supports the creation of two new skilled positions and reinforces the company’s commitment to its award-winning apprentice training programme.

Based in North Skelton, Redcar and Cleveland, the company specialises in precision subcontract engineering services, offering large CNC machining, metrology, balancing, assembly, pressure testing, blasting, and painting. Additionally, Tees Components is the OEM for Tees White Gill, a waterjet ship thruster designed and manufactured at its Teesside facility and exported to six continents.

The new machine was supplied by Ward CNC, who fulfilled the bespoke order after it was placed in late 2023. Ward CNC’s Managing Director – Simon Whitworth stated: “We’re proud to continue our long-standing relationship with Tees Components through the supply of the Hartford PBM135C. Their commitment to investing in high-quality, future-ready technology is epitomised by their latest investment, and it’s been a pleasure supporting them from specification to installation. We look forward to providing ongoing technical support as they put the machine into full operation.”

The inaugural operation of the Hartford PBM135C featured a component from client STATS Group (STATS), based in Aberdeenshire. STATS, known for its work in market leading pipeline isolation and intervention services to the global energy industry, expressed satisfaction with the new equipment.

Dale Gillies, Manufacturing & Quality Assurance Lead Engineer at STATS Group commented: “STATS' commitment to delivering high-quality tools and equipment to the pipeline industry has been strengthened through the services of Tees Components. Their machining capabilities delivered using the new Hartford machine, will help ensure our critical machining requirements are met in terms of quality, cost-efficiency, and project deadlines."

The commissioning ceremony was officiated by Mayor of Middlesbrough, Chris Cooke, who declared the machine tool operational and remarked: “I'm so proud to have the opportunity today to be part of the Tees Valley's industrial future. It is fantastic to see someone so integral to our region's industry such as Sharon delivering real progress with Tees Components, while also going above and beyond to help shape places like Middlesbrough College, where our next generation of innovators are trained.”

Cllr Alec Brown, Leader of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, said: “It’s great news to see local business Tees Components investing in advanced technology and creating high-quality jobs in our area. This will bring new opportunities to Redcar and Cleveland, particularly around skills development and apprenticeships, and places the business in a strong position for future growth.”

Tees Components’ Managing Director, Sharon Lane, added: “It's wonderful to celebrate today with our team, customers, and partners. The Hartford PBM135C is a significant addition to our capacity, enabling us to continue delivering high-quality, complex components to our customers, while supporting local jobs and skills development.”

With a record £4 million order book extending into 2027, Tees Components is poised for continued growth and success in its key sectors.