Manufacturing never stands still – and neither do we. At Stephens Gaskets, our commitment to continuous investment in technology and capacity ensures we remain at the forefront of precision engineering in the UK.
As customer demand grows and component complexity increases, we’re responding with new machines, expanded production space, and smarter processes. This ongoing investment helps us deliver faster lead times, improved consistency, and better solutions across all sectors we serve.
New Fibre Laser Installed to Boost Cutting Capacity
One of our latest investments is the installation of a state-of-the-art fibre laser cutting system, which has already transformed our sheet processing capabilities.
The new machine delivers:
- Faster cutting speeds.
- Increased energy efficiency.
- Precision for both small and large batch runs.
- Cleaner edges and reduced secondary finishing.
- The ability to cut reflective materials like copper and brass.
Since installation, we’ve already seen an immediate uptake in larger and more complex jobs, especially from clients who require intricate profiles in stainless steel, aluminium, and composite materials.
This upgrade allows us to keep pace with modern design requirements while offering faster turnaround times – something increasingly essential in today’s market.
Building on a History of Growth
This latest addition continues a long tradition of strategic investment at Stephens Gaskets. Over the past decade, we’ve expanded both our capabilities and physical footprint to better support our clients. Key milestones include:
1. Acquisition of the Turning Division (2017)
We added both sliding head and fixed head CNC lathes to support complex turned parts, washers, fasteners, and low-volume specials.
2. Injection Moulding Expansion
Multiple injection moulding machines were introduced to increase our output of custom plastic parts, particularly for electrical and sealing applications.
3. Press Shop Upgrades
We invested in higher-tonnage press machines and upgraded tooling infrastructure to handle a wider range of metal pressings and stampings.
These expansions weren’t just about more equipment – they were about creating a full-service, future-ready production environment.
Meeting Evolving Customer Needs
As product lifecycles shorten and customisation increases, we recognise that our clients need:
- Shorter lead times.
- Higher volume throughput.
- Greater design flexibility.
- Consistent quality at scale.
Our investments are guided by these realities. Whether you’re a long-standing OEM or a growing tech firm developing a new product, we now offer more capacity and capability to support you from prototype to production.
Looking Ahead – What’s Next?
Our investment strategy is ongoing. We are currently evaluating upgrades in several areas, including:
- Expanded warehousing and stockholding.
- Additional finishing capabilities.
- Further automation in inspection and packing.
- New tooling and prototyping equipment.
By staying ahead of the curve, we ensure our clients benefit from the latest in manufacturing performance, reliability, and scalability.
A Partner You Can Scale With
Customers increasingly tell us they’re tired of switching suppliers as their needs evolve. At Stephens Gaskets, we aim to grow with you. Whether your project starts with a handful of parts or grows into scheduled production, our investments in people, machines, and systems ensure we’re equipped to support the journey.
That’s what makes us a forward-looking manufacturing company – one that doesn’t just react to change, but drives it.
Why This Matters to You
- Faster turnaround times for new and existing orders.
- Greater part complexity with improved precision.
- Higher volumes without compromising quality.
- Confidence that your supplier is ready to grow with you.
- A single partner with the technology to meet your next challenge.
Whether you need prototyping support, batch production, or scalable fulfilment, our infrastructure is ready.
FAQs – Our Investment Strategy
1. What does the new laser system allow you to do differently?
It enables faster cutting with tighter tolerances across more materials – ideal for both prototyping and high-volume work.
2. Can you support higher-volume production than before?
Yes. We’ve increased both machine hours and floor capacity to meet higher order volumes with shorter lead times.
3. How do these investments impact lead times?
Lead times are faster, especially for laser cut and turned parts, due to increased in-house capability and reduced outsourcing.
4. Are you planning to add more services?
We continue to assess demand and are exploring new finishing and automated packing options to complement our production lines.
Final Thoughts
Investment isn’t just about machines – it’s about commitment. At Stephens Gaskets, we invest because our customers trust us to deliver, improve, and adapt. Our ongoing focus on continuous investment in technology and capacity means you can rely on us – not just for what you need today, but for what you’ll need tomorrow.
Let us help you push forward – faster, better, and with confidence.
Contact Us to Discuss Your Project
If you’re developing a new product, scaling up an existing one, or simply want a supplier that can keep pace, we’re ready to help. Let’s talk about how our technology and capacity investments can benefit your next project.
Get in touch or request a quote today:
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Phone: +44 (0)121 544 5808
Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk