UCGTR Acquires ConnectiCUT Wire, Expands Wire EDM Services for High-Volume Production
At United Centerless Grinding & Thread Rolling, we continually look for ways to give customers more capacity and an easy path from quote to finished part.
That’s why we recently acquired ConnectiCUT Wire EDM, LLC, a trusted wire EDM shop. By bringing its equipment and team into our facility, we have expanded our ability to support high-volume and lights-out EDM, as well as multi-process projects involving wire EDM.
Bringing Together Two Established Manufacturing Teams
ConnectiCUT Wire previously operated out of Meriden, Connecticut, and they’ve built a loyal customer base through years of dependable wire EDM work. When its owner began planning for retirement, he wanted to find a buyer that would support its customers and carry its reputation forward.
United Centerless Grinding & Thread Rolling was a natural fit. Like ConnectiCUT Wire, we have deep roots in Connecticut manufacturing and a history of reliable service and long-term customer relationships.
The acquisition allows us to build on ConnectiCUT Wire’s legacy while offering customers the resources of a larger, multi-process manufacturing partner. And to be sure the process goes smoothly, owner Jeff Cooper has agreed to remain involved during the transition, helping transfer knowledge about existing processes and customer requirements.
More Wire EDM Capacity for Higher-Volume Programs
The acquisition adds four wire EDM machines to our facility, doubling our EDM capacity. We have offered wire EDM services for years, but have focused on lower-volume requirements and parts that also need our other manufacturing processes. The additional equipment lets us take larger orders and ongoing production programs for our customers.
Expanded capacity also gives us more scheduling flexibility. We can dedicate equipment to repeat work and respond to changing demand.
Greater Opportunities for Lights-Out Production
The additional machines now allow us to run wire EDM work unattended overnight. Once a job has been proven out, parts can run without any operator being involved.
Lights-out production can reduce your lead times, especially for repeat orders and high-volume projects. Our team can discuss whether your parts are good fits for our lights-out capabilities.
AS9100-Certified Support for Aerospace Work
ConnectiCUT Wire served many aerospace customers, but their lack of AS9100 certification prevented them from accepting certain projects. Now, those customers can access wire EDM services through our AS9100D-certified shop.
A Simple Transition for Shared Customers
Several ConnectiCUT Wire customers already relied on United Centerless Grinding & Thread Rolling for other manufacturing processes like centerless grinding, thread rolling, Swiss machining, and other services.
Because we are already an approved supplier for those companies, they may be able to add wire EDM machining work without completing a new supplier-approval process. These customers can continue receiving the wire EDM results they expect and combine more of their work with one partner.
Fewer supplier handoffs can simplify purchasing and project management.
Wire EDM Production Is Already Underway
ConnectiCUT Wire’s machines are installed in our facility, and production is already underway. During the move, our in-house maintenance team cleaned and serviced the equipment before installation, and every machine is now operating more efficiently than ever.
Do you have a wire EDM part or a project that requires multiple manufacturing processes? Request a quote or contact us to discuss your requirements.
