WORKERS have said farewell to an old friend.
A Hufford stretch-forming process has dominated the fabrications department at BAE Systems since it was installed 13 years ago.
The machine was used mainly to stretch-form 26-foot long struts used to attach the engine to the wings of Boeing 747 aircraft.
More than 200 strut sets were produced during its time in service. The machine has also been used to produce parts for Hawk, T-45 Goshawk and Rolls Royce. A major reorganisation of the department and introduction of new equipment for Eurofighter Typhoon has meant the Hufford has had to move out.
"We are sad to see the Hufford go as the machine has performed exceptionally over the years and it feels like we are coming to the end of an era," said Phil Cochrane, supervisor for the giant machine.
"But times change and we are looking to the future with modern equipment for modern aircraft."
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article