Outdoor Play UK, a specialist in the design and manufacture of bespoke wooden playground equipment, is responsible for some of the most engaging, safe and beautiful play spaces found across the UK. Their work is all about enhancing a child’s experience through the use of natural materials and the outside environment, which is proven to have a positive effect on both mental and physical development.
As Outdoor Play UK has demonstrated, creativity is key in this industry. But bringing a bespoke design to life requires more than just a great concept – it demands the right machinery to turn drawings into reality. Recognising this, the company recently invested in HOMAG’s CENTATEQ P-310 5-axis, a CNC machine set to take outdoor play to new and exciting heights.
The need for advanced technology
Outdoor Play UK initially worked with a 3-axis CNC machine, using it to develop a range of products. However, as demand grew and designs became more complex, the company realised the need for a more advanced solution. “We were looking for the next step forward,” explains Charlie, Workshop Manager at Outdoor Play UK. “A more capable machine would allow us to develop our products even further. That’s when we decided to go for a 5-axis CNC.”
Choosing HOMAG
The decision to go with HOMAG was influenced by industry recommendations and thorough research. “A neighbouring business that specialises in kitchens spoke very highly of HOMAG,” Charlie said. “We were considering another brand as well, and it was a close call. But ultimately, HOMAG came back with a strong offer, and it was actually the machine our manager originally wanted.”
To ensure they were making the right investment, the team visited HOMAG’s Castle Donington showroom, where they saw the CENTATEQ P-310 in action. “The build quality really stood out,” Charlie noted. “One of our biggest requirements was the ability to clamp and machine round poles in-house – something we hadn’t been able to do before. HOMAG took the time to test this for us, sending videos and photos of the process, which gave us confidence in the machine’s capabilities.”
Seamless installation and training
The implementation of the CENTATEQ P-310 was carefully planned to minimise disruption. “Installation was excellent,” Charlie recalled. “There were some logistical challenges with the layout of our site, but HOMAG liaised with us really well and came up with a great solution.
“The installation took four days, and during that time disruption was kept to a minimum. Then we had five days of on-site training … HOMAG does a great job of ensuring you’re comfortable with the machine. The transition as a result was very smooth.”
Outdoor Play UK also invested in HOMAG’s woodWOP software, along with an additional CAM plugin for 3D modelling. While the transition to the new software presented some learning curves, HOMAG provided extensive support. “We had some initial difficulties with transferring our bespoke drawings to woodWOP, but HOMAG went above and beyond, adapting our designs to ensure compatibility,” Charlie said. “Their willingness to help has been outstanding.”
The impact of the CENTATEQ P-310
Although still in the early stages of using the new machine, Outdoor Play UK is already seeing improvements in efficiency and accuracy. “We’re getting to grips with the 5-axis technology, and further training is planned for March,” Charlie shared. “But even using the base capabilities of the CNC, we’ve already noticed a big difference. Tasks that were previously done manually, such as glueing timber for larger workpieces, are now handled much faster and with greater precision.”
Looking ahead, the company anticipates significant benefits in terms of increased production capacity and improved product quality. “We’re excited to see where this machine will take us when we’re using it at its full potential.”
Safe hands
“This was a major investment for us,” reflects Charlie, “so naturally, we were apprehensive. One of our biggest concerns was whether we’d have the backup and support needed to manage a machine of this calibre. But HOMAG have really lived up to their reputation of outstanding service … which is to say, we needn’t have worried.”
Charlie concludes, “We couldn’t be happier with the decision to choose HOMAG. The machine, the support, and the service have all been second to none.”
For more information or a demonstration of any of the HOMAG machinery and software, contact Adele Hunt at HOMAG UK on 01332 856424.
