Sheffield, often referred to as the “Steel City,” stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the steel manufacturing industry. The city was at the forefront of the steel revolution and today is still playing its part with new advances in manufacturing, energy reduction and green technology.
We proudly call Sheffield home and are keen to participate in its continuing and ever-changing steel heritage.
Sheffield’s steel manufacturing history is woven into the fabric of the city. Dating back to the 18th century, the city gained prominence for its skilled artisans producing high-quality steel and quickly became renowned for its cutlery and tools. By the mid-1800s annual steel production in Britain was around 50,000 tonnes per year, 85% of which came from Sheffield.
It was during the Industrial Revolution that the production of steel came to the fore. It was quickly understood that steel offered strength and durability and when Henry Bessemer developed the crucible process that made it possible to mass-produce steel cheaply, the industry took off like never before.
As engineering and machinery soared it was essential that metal could be easily formed, cut, and joined to meet the demands of the growing train and ship-building industries. Steam engines were then used to produce increasingly bigger and thinner metal and the cycle continued.
With its proximity to iron, coal mines and water from five rivers, Sheffield was perfectly located to dominate the steel industry and did so right up until the 1960s when it faced heavy competition from abroad. The industry may have contracted in size from its heyday, but it continued to pioneer new techniques.
Cleaner and Greener
The steel industry now concentrates on more specialist steelmaking and, in 2005, produced more steel per year by value than at any other time in its history. The industry is now less noticeable as it has become highly automated and employs far fewer staff than in the past. Today the economy is worth over £7 billion a year.
Gone are the days of billowing chimneys and smog, steel manufacturing today is an altogether cleaner and greener affair. Computers power our factories and are set to make an even bigger contribution to the way that we work.
Sustainability is becoming a top priority for many industries, and CNC machining is no exception. In 2024, we expect to see an increased focus on eco-friendly manufacturing processes that minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and utilise environmentally friendly materials.
Innovations and Technological Advances
Just like the steel industry, we have also adapted to the times. We now use the very latest cloud-based technology to operate our CNC machines. This greatly reduces production times and increases quality and consistency.
Innovations in artificial intelligence and 3D printing are already shaping the industry and I am sure we will continue to adapt and refine the way we work. Our processes may evolve but the need for steel milling and drilling continues, and we are excited to play our part in the next chapter in the story of Sheffield steel.
Sources: Wikipedia