The Bennington Manufacturing Process

Our storage area where all the raw materials are stored prior to use. The major two metals we use are steel and aluminium. All materials come to us in straight lengths.

Ady then heats up the metal in order to manipulate it into the shapes and sizes needed to form the individual components of a carriage.

Jim using state-of-the-art plasma welding. This is a further development of the TIG welding process, but involves higher temperatures and improved penetration. Thicknesses upto 10mm can be fused together. A brilliant bright white light is produced when welding is in progress. Yet more pioneering technology from Bennington.

Dave measuring to achieve high standards of quality control. The accuracy of each component when compared to its specification is vital to the overall performance of a carriage.

Michael cleaning and smoothing off all welds to enhance the beautiful finish that Bennington carriages are renowned for.

Chris preparing to shot blast. All metal is shot blasted to a white metal finish to give an excellent key to the powder coating paint method.

Matthew is responsible for manufacturing Bennington's own invention - the aluminium carriage wheel. This is one of the features that makes Bennington competition carriages way ahead of the rest as aluminium is both stronger and lighter than steel.

Mac constructing the frame of a carriage. One of the most important parts of the manufacturing process, as if its not built correctly then under-performance could well occur. Quality control is again featured at this stage.

Simon woodworking. To achieve an impressive overall look it is essential to get the woodwork on a carriage right. Simon is also responsible for final assembly at the end of the manufacturing process.

The paint booth. Bennington use a unique finish. Powder paint is applied electro-statically and then the components are cooked in a giant oven at 220 degrees centigrade.

Brigid in the upholstery department. By manufacturing all the fabric parts ourselves this gives us great scope for being able to produce to an individual requirement.