Sheffield manufacturer cuts energy use after investing £43,000 in new tech
A Sheffield manufacturer celebrating its 50th anniversary is investing in digital technology to improve productivity, reduce energy consumption and support future growth.
EE Ingleton Engineering is among 19 manufacturers across Yorkshire investing almost £900,000 in digital technologies through the latest round of Made Smarter Yorkshire, the Government-backed programme, which helps small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt digital tools and technologies.
The latest projects build on the programme's wider impact since launching in 2021. During that time, it has supported more than 1,250 manufacturers, awarded 112 technology grants worth £1.6 million and helped generate almost £5 million of investment across the region.
EE Ingleton, which makes perforated metal products, industrial screens and specialist heat-treated wear parts, secured a £20,000 grant towards a £43,000 project to modernise its IPSEN heat-treatment furnace.
The investment replaced ageing analogue controls and manual processes with a digitally controlled system featuring automated process management, remote monitoring and data capture capabilities.
The upgrade has created an additional six to eight production hours each week through overnight pre-heating and remote monitoring. It has also significantly improved energy efficiency, increasing gas efficiency from around 30 to 35 per cent to approximately 80 per cent, with potential gas savings of up to 50 per cent, while strengthening the company's in-house heat-treatment capability.
Terry Lee, Director, said: “We’re a traditional manufacturing business, but this journey has shown that digital technology and decarbonisation can work hand in hand. It’s not just about reducing energy costs, it’s about becoming more competitive, more resilient and making sure the business is in a strong position for the next 50 years.
“These projects have helped us move much faster than we could have done on our own. The support has allowed us to invest in technology, improve efficiency and continue modernising the business while protecting jobs and creating new opportunities for the future.”
Jessica Armitage, Programme Manager for Made Smarter Yorkshire, said: “It’s fantastic to see manufacturers across Sheffield continuing to invest and grow despite the challenges facing the sector.
“EE Ingleton Engineering is a great example of how digital technology can improve productivity while also reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
“Whether it’s automation, advanced manufacturing equipment, digital systems or better use of data, these projects are helping manufacturers work smarter, become more competitive and build stronger, more resilient businesses.
“Grant funding is still available and I would encourage manufacturers across Sheffield to get in touch and discover how Made Smarter can help identify opportunities to modernise their operations and support future growth.”
To access Made Smarter support, manufacturers begin by speaking with a specialist adviser about their business and growth ambitions. A digital expert then works with the company to develop a tailored roadmap, identifying where technology and skills can deliver the greatest impact. Businesses can then access a range of support, including specialist advice, leadership and skills programmes, digital internships, and matched funding of up to £20,000 through a digital technology grant.