Is automation the key to survival of the foundry industry is the UK? - Advances in control systems, robotic units and abrasive developments can lead to success in the foundry industry

摘要

The foundry industry was the cornerstone of engineering manufacturing in the British Empire and helped to make Britain one of the most advanced and technically creative countries in the world. Coalbrookdale foundry in Shropshire, founded by Abraham Darby in 1709, is one of, if not the, oldest foundry in the world. However, it now has the distinction of holding the more poignant title as one of the few remaining cast iron foundries in the UK. The foundry industry in the UK dates back to the turn of the 18th century from when it flourished in nearly every town in the country with one or more foundries. Inspired by technically brilliant people such as Abraham Darby and Isambard Kingdom Brunei, craftsmen produced quality iron and steel products.