William Mitchell Ltd, a manufacturing company with a rich history dating back to 1824. The company has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from its origins in pen nib production to becoming a specialist in Fine Blanking and Progressive stamping manufacturing processes.
Owner and Chairman, Mr. Byron Head DL. has played a crucial role in the development of William Mitchell Ltd, from joining the company in 1978 to continuing to invest in the Rical Group of companies including William Mitchell Ltd during 2024 and beyond.
Under Byron Head's leadership, William Mitchell Ltd has transformed from one of the first high volume manufacturers of pen nibs into a diverse and technologically advanced manufacturing company, specializing in fine blanking, progressive stamping and precision engineering for various industries.
## Historical Background
William Mitchell formally established his business in 1825, becoming one of the worlds leading nib manufacturers and gaining fame for their lettering pens. The company's heritage in pen nib manufacturing continued for nearly a century before merging with other pen manufacturers and expanding its capabilities.
## Evolution of Manufacturing Capabilities
Over time, William Mitchell Ltd has significantly expanded its manufacturing capabilities:
1. Pen Nibs: The company started by producing the first commercially produced metal pen nibs margining with other significant names in this sector from the year 1825 (British Pens Ltd)
2. Conventional Presswork: British Pens Ltd was renamed William Mitchell Ltd and began as a conventional presswork company 1982
3. Fine Blanking: In 1988, the company invested in its first fine blanking press, marking a significant technological advancement.
4. Progressive Stamping: The company now specializes in fine blanking and conventional presswork, using coil feed progression presses
5. Accreditations: William Mitchell are proud to be accredited to Ford Q1supplier status, IATF16969, ISO9001 and iso14001
## Current Manufacturing Capabilities
Today, William Mitchell Ltd offers a wide range of manufacturing services:
- Fine Blanking: The company has presses ranging from 40 to 630 tonnes.
- Conventional Presswork: Capabilities up to 450 tonnes
- Material Processing: Can work with materials from 0.1mm to 16mm in thickness, including hot and cold rolled steels, stainless steel, and various non-ferrous metals and alloys
- Additional Processes: Automated linishing, de-burring, assembly by spot, MIG and TIG welding, and riveting
About the Rical Group
The Rical Group comprises four main businesses:
William Mitchell: The largest division, specializing in fine blanked components and progression presswork. It's a leading supplier to the automotive industry.
Fellows: Formerly known as SJ & E Fellows Ltd, established in 1895. Specializes in deep draw and heavy presswork, as well as commercial catering equipment.
Multiforms: Focuses on metal pressings, wireforms, and strip products.
Taurus Engineering: Specializes in precision sheet metal fabrication