From design concept to manufactured drive system

(See EMS at MachineBuilding.Live, 14 October 2026, on stand 208)

From stand E55, EMS' design team will be available to discuss unique application challenges and demonstrate examples of their customised components and complete drive systems.

At this year's EDS, EMS will display working examples of customised components, giving visitors a closer look at how the company develops custom products for applications where standard products don't tick all the performance boxes. Engineers are invited to bring ideas and concepts to the stand for an initial discussion with the team.

For design engineers facing tight space constraints, complex performance requirements or a configuration that requires a smaller component, with the same power, off the shelf solutions may not be the appropriate route to take.

A bespoke approach allows the drive system to be developed around the application rather than forcing the design to work around an existing component. EMS works with customers to establish requirements including force, torque, speed, voltage and current, available space and expected operating life before developing a concept. This gives engineers more freedom to balance performance, size and configuration, while creating a solution that integrates more closely with the equipment.

The design process involves 3D modelling, feasibility assessments and prototype development. EMS then manufacturer prototypes at its 40,000 square foot facility in Poole, Dorset, using its CNC machining and gear cutting capabilities, before assembling and testing the resulting drive systems. This allows designs to be assessed and refined using components and processes that reflect the eventual production requirements.

Components undergo strict metrology and testing throughout the manufacturing process to compare finished assemblies against the required specifications. Its abilities include dedicated gear measurement equipment for assessing manufactured gears, coordinate measuring machinery for checking component dimensions and end-of-line testing to verify completed systems.

"Some of the most difficult design challenges come from the smallest details," said Chris Handcock, Technical Manager at EMS. "Whether that's fitting a drive system into a restricted space, achieving a particular torque or adapting a component to suit the application - a bespoke approach gives engineers more freedom to work around those requirements.

"Our team can support customers from the early stages of a concept, helping to assess what is technically possible before developing and manufacturing a solution. Having design, manufacturing and testing skills in-house means we can stay closely involved throughout the process, make changes as the project develops and maintain greater control over quality and consistency. It also means we can identify and resolve potential issues quickly, without relying on multiple external suppliers."