City College Plymouth, a leader in marine engineering, naval architecture, and mechanical innovation, has embraced cutting-edge technology to revolutionize its educational offerings. With the support of the Southwest Institute of Technology, the college recently unveiled a state-of-the-art facility in Plymouth. Central to this transformation is the Kimla CNC router with a 4th axis aggregate head, provided by Daltons Wadkin.
The Vision for Innovation
Martin Boulter, from the Technical Innovation and Maritime Skills Department, shares the vision:
“We sought equipment that would inspire creativity, accelerate processes, and support our students in marine autonomy and naval architecture. A four or five-axis CNC machine was essential to achieve this.”
Daltons Wadkin was approached as part of the procurement process. Their extensive industry expertise, coupled with an understanding of City College Plymouth’s unique needs, proved invaluable. Andy Walsh from Daltons Wadkin worked closely with the team to identify the KIMLA CNC router as the ideal solution.
“Andy and the team at Daltons Wadkin were instrumental in guiding us through the process. They listened to our requirements, addressed our concerns, and ensured we selected a machine that not only met but exceeded our expectations,” Martin shares.
Overcoming Challenges with Daltons Wadkin’s Expertise
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. COVID-19 restrictions prevented in-person visits, making it difficult to assess the machine on-site. However, Daltons Wadkin provided seamless remote support throughout the process.
“I was initially nervous about investing in such a high-tech piece of equipment without seeing it in action,” Martin admits. “But the Daltons Wadkin team put my mind at ease. They explained the machine’s capabilities in detail and guided us remotely through every step, from selection to installation.”
When the router was delivered, it fit perfectly into the new facility and lived up to every promise. Martin and his team were trained by Daltons Wadkin experts, ensuring a smooth transition to using the machine.
A Transformative Impact
The Kimla router has dramatically transformed how students at City College Plymouth approach their projects. Tasks that once took months can now be completed in hours. For example, creating quarter-scale hull forms has gone from a two-month process to under two hours. Full plugs can be completed in less than a day, allowing students to focus on testing and refining their designs.
“This machine has revolutionized our workflow,” Martin explains. “It allows students to go from CAD drawings to real-world testing rapidly, fostering innovation and creativity. Daltons Wadkin’s support has been vital in helping us maximize the machine’s potential.”
A Partnership for the Future
City College Plymouth’s partnership with Daltons Wadkin has set a benchmark for what can be achieved when cutting-edge technology meets expert support. The investment in the Kimla, made possible by the Southwest Institute of Technology, has not only enhanced the college’s capabilities but also positioned it as a leader in high-tech education.
“This collaboration has put us on the map for advanced industry training,” Martin concludes. “Daltons Wadkin delivered on every promise, and the Kimla CNC router is now the centerpiece of our innovation-driven curriculum.”
For more details and expert guidance on our CNC machines or to book a demonstration, call us at 0115 986 5201 or visit daltonswadkin.com.
Watch our video Case Study where we sit down with Martin and discuss their new investment below.
