Case Study - MSB Group - Time is Money

MSB Group is a nationwide design and build contractor delivering complex, high-value structures for leading developers, commercial operators and national brands. From steel fabrication to full project delivery, we handle every stage in-house with a focus on precision, safety and efficiency.

We spoke to Daryl Nicholls, a Draughtsman based out of their new Newent location, about their recent acquisition of a Morgan Rushworth XR 6kW Fibre Laser with Compact Stacker.

“Time is money – and this machine has given us valuable working hours back every single week”

What was the business need for this machine?

We work on many projects that use a significant amount of galvanised material, and processing it on our existing machinery was simply taking too long. We wanted to automate and speed up that part of our operation.

We also saw the machine as an opportunity to open up new avenues of work. It would allow us to bring in-house some jobs that we would previously have subcontracted, as well as explore new types of work and demonstrate the wider capabilities and capacity we have at MSB Group.

How was the buying process?

The initial conversation took place between Selmach and our Managing Director, Matt. We had spoken to Selmach previously, so they were already familiar to us. We explained what we were looking for and outlined our basic requirements, and the response from Selmach was immediate. We were invited to their premises in Hereford, where we were given a tour and shown the different machines in the demonstration area.

Seeing the laser in action sold it to us straight away. A plasma cutter initially appears to be a quick way of processing material, but when you see the speed and accuracy of the laser, the plasma technology almost looks antiquated by comparison. The laser represented a major step forward for us.

Selmach listened carefully and gave us exactly what we needed. They did not try to sell us something unsuitable or include features we did not require. We provided a list of requirements, every box was ticked, and they presented us with the right laser for the job. The proof was in the demonstration, and we decided to buy it.

The turnaround time was also a major factor. Selmach could deliver within our required schedule, while other suppliers were quoting lead times of 12 or even 24 weeks. Being able to have the machine installed and working within approximately four weeks was fantastic and helped confirm our decision.

How was delivery and installation?

The delivery and installation were excellent. Having the machine delivered and installed within the four-week period we had requested was fantastic, and the installation team were very good throughout.

As with any new machine, we experienced a couple of minor teething issues while getting everything set up exactly as required. At one point, one of those issues prevented the machine from running. We contacted Selmach and, within a maximum of two hours, an engineer arrived and got us operational again. He explained the temporary steps he had taken, arranged for the necessary parts to be ordered and then returned to fit them, ensuring the machine was running exactly as it should.

The remote support has also been brilliant. A dedicated WhatsApp group was created for us, allowing us to ask questions and receive guidance quickly. On some occasions, we have received a response within a minute; even the longest wait has only been around 25 to 30 minutes. That level of support from Selmach has been excellent.

What effect has it had on workflow?

The machine has exceeded our expectations, particularly in terms of its capabilities and speed. Some of our jobs involve cutting up to 20 sheets and would previously have required anywhere from 20 to 40 hours or more of cutting time. The laser has reduced that to roughly a quarter of the previous time, which has been a tremendous improvement.

Our plasma machine also required an operator to remain with it throughout the process to ensure it continued working at optimum capacity. With the laser, the same operator can set up a ten-sheet programme playlist and leave it to run while moving on to another machine.

Instead of spending all those hours supervising one machine, the operator can now divide their time between two. The laser can run automatically, feeding and loading material itself, while the operator concentrates on other equipment that requires more supervision. It has freed up a significant number of working hours each week – and time is money.

Would you recommend Selmach and Morgan Rushworth?

Absolutely. The support we have received from Selmach has been brilliant. Some things are difficult to put a price on, and having genuine person-to-person contact that ensures you feel fully supported is one of them.

The Morgan Rushworth machine itself has also been fantastic. We are extremely happy with the way it runs and operates, and we would certainly recommend both Selmach and Morgan Rushworth to others. When visitors come to our premises, the brand and the machine are there for everyone to see – and the results speak for themselves.