Smethwick-based precision engineering firm A&M EDM has invested in new wire eroders, creating five new jobs and pushing its 2018 sales towards £5m.

In response to increased demand from aerospace, automotive and motorsports customers, A&M EDM has spent £400,000 purchasing and installing two Sodick ALC 600G wire-cutting machines.

The new machines were commissioned by Charlotte Horobin, regional director for the Midlands and East of the manufacturers’ organisation EEF.

Charlotte said: “A&M is a shining example of an SME committed to continuous investment to create a competitive edge and the benefit of working in partnership with its LEP and local authority.”

A&M uses spark and wire erosion and CNC (computer numerical controlled) machining capabilities to manufacture precision components and tooling for aerospace, automotive, Formula 1 and production assembly customers.

The company uses 25,000 miles of conductive brass wire in its 17 wire erosion machines every year, enough to circle the world.

A&M’s investment has created five new jobs, supported by a grant of £58,000 from the Black Country LEP Growing Priority Sectors fund administered by Sandwell Council. The company now employs 65 people, underlining its position as one of the UK’s largest electrical discharge machining specialists, using spark and wire erosion to cut steel and other metals with tremendous precision.

Mark Wingfield, managing director of A&M said: “We are delighted Charlotte agreed to commission the new wire eroders, our approach is to continue investing to expand our manufacturing capabilities for customers. The Growing Priority Sectors grant was important in bridging a funding gap and enabling us to grow and create new engineering jobs.”

A&M has invested a further £5m in the past four years on a second factory, metrology inspection facilities, a research & design rotary engine project and high-speed machining centres.

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