Eurac Poole students take part in new cast iron-focused course

Brake disc manufacturer Eurac Poole has benefitted from a new 18-month training programme, which is aimed at improving the competitiveness of the foundry sector.

The Dorset-based foundry enrolled three students on the programme - the certificate in cast iron production, metallurgy and quality control - delivered as a joint venture by the institute of cast metals engineers (ICME) and the cast metals federation (CMF).

READ MORE: Fisherman's market to feature at Poole's Seafood and Sounds

The trio gave a presentation showcasing how their learning had allowed them to complete a project on 'investigating a suitable replacement for wire inoculation', helping to reduce casting defects and identifying processes that will cut scrap.

This has already led to cost savings.

"This course was developed in response to a clear need from industry for a practical programme, focused on the metallurgy and production of the suite of cast irons," said Amy Worrallo, the training and quality manager for ICME.

"It included modules on melting and shop floor quality controls, raw material selection, metal treatments, as well as testing and quality assurance.

"From meeting the students at the start of the programme it is rewarding to witness first-hand the positive impact the training has had not only on the individuals, but the companies involved."

The course combines classroom lessons, practical sessions, and workplace projects and the coordinators say many of the shopfloor improvement exercises have delivered cost savings and efficiency gains, whilst several new processes have been introduced to rectify material failures and reduce defects.

Pam Murrell, CEO of CMF said: "The value of this course for our industry speaks for itself in the positive responses from all those involved and the fact that the costs of putting employees through it has already been recouped from bottom-line benefits."

She added: "The key to success has been the ‘in-company’ projects at Eurac Poole, which have ensured that the business gets additional value from the course. 

"Clearly the professional development of their teams and their ability to ‘problem solve’ and deal with process and quality improvements though their improved understanding of cast iron is important, and the face-to-face teaching and practical hands-on learning in the ECMS National Foundry Training Centre will have contributed hugely."

The course is ICME approved and comes complete with ICME-accredited CPD hours.

A new cohort is currently being recruited to start in March, 2024. For more information, people are asked to e-mail [email protected].

Visit Hampshire Biz News for bright, upbeat and positive business news from the county