Bilston steel supplier installs cutting-edge machine - one of the UK’s first

The purchase of the cutting-edge technology, supported by Lloyds, is expected to create five new jobs at its stainless-steel division D.S. Willetts in Bilston and contribute to a projected 25 per cent increase in turnover.

As part of its ongoing investment in innovation, D.S. Willetts, a division of Masteel, has installed a state-of-the-art combined plasma and water jet-cutting machine, a highly advanced system currently used by only a select few companies in the industry. 

The technology marks a significant milestone for the business and is set to greatly expand its service capabilities.

The new system features three cutting tools, allowing for a wide range of shapes and finishes, from clean, straight edges to more complex angled cuts. It can even combine cutting methods to deliver high-quality results more efficiently. This versatility opens new possibilities for precision fabrication that were previously unattainable.

One of the machine’s most notable advantages is its cold-cutting process. Unlike traditional laser or plasma cutting, which generates high temperatures and creates a heat-affected zone, the water jet system uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with an abrasive substance, typically garnet, to slice through material without introducing thermal stress. This is especially beneficial when cutting stainless steel or other specialty materials where structural integrity must be preserved.

The purchase was facilitated by a six-figure package from Lloyds. The bank’s tailored financial support not only funded the new machine, but also enabled the acquisition of long-standing family-run firm D.S. Willetts, a specialist stainless steel supplier, underscoring Lloyds’ commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the nation’s manufacturing sector.

Originally formed in 2002, Masteel was acquired by CEO Darren Bradley in 2021.

Darren, who has four decades of experience in the manufacturing industry, was drawn to Masteel’s strength and solid foundation and highly experienced management team and workforce, which ultimately motivated the acquisition.

Today, Masteel boasts a 53-strong workforce and supplies customers in more than 80 countries worldwide, from South Africa to the United States, from its headquarters in Lichfield.

Darren said: "With the continued support of Lloyds over the past 15 years, we’ve been able to scale our operations significantly. The introduction of our water jet cutter has been a game-changer, ushering in a transformative period for the business and allowing us to bring something truly unique and exciting to the market.”

Sarah Lea-Smith, relationship manager at Lloyds, said: “Masteel has come a long way since it was founded back in 2002, and we’re proud to be supporting the business as it continues to grow and move into the next exciting chapter of its journey. From day one, Masteel has shown real drive and determination, qualities that have helped it stand out in a competitive industry.

“Steel production has long been a key part of Britain’s industrial story, and Masteel is a great example of how that legacy continues to evolve. Darren and the team should feel incredibly proud that what started as a small operation in the Midlands has grown into a business with genuine global reach.”