Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson officially opened the first section of Perkins’ £30 Million crankshaft machining centre when he visited the company’s headquarters on Friday October 12.

Operations director Allan Arnott was delighted that Mr Jackson was able to open the first section of the crank line during Perkins’ 75th anniversary year.

“Perkins’ commitment and investment in this crankshaft machining centre will ensure a stronger future for employees and continue to build on our entrepreneurial heritage as an innovative diesel engine manufacturer,” stated Mr Arnott.

The world-class, global crankshaft machining centre begins production in 2008 producing over a quarter of a million crankshafts a year when at full capacity.

“With the challenges faced by many British engineering companies over the last few years it’s great to be able to show our commitment to continue manufacturing in the UK,” added Mr Arnott.

Through the deployment of highly automated benchmark technology, the new state of the art facility will increase crankshaft manufacturing capacity by 100 per cent and represents a step change in machining operations at Peterborough. 

The new facility brings with it significant safety and environmental benefits.  For example the complete elimination of heat treatment process will decrease energy consumption. Using leading edge technology it will deliver higher speed processes while extending tooling life. Smart supply chain performance also delivers lower freight costs.

The facility will give Perkins’ customers the best delivered quality yet and will help the company achieve a flexible world class solution which will be the industry benchmark for crankshaft technology and automation in the world.

As well as opening the first section of the crankshaft machining line Mr Jackson was shown some of the latest innovations and investments around the Eastfield site.

PICTURE: Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson opens the first section of the crankshaft machining centre.