Stream Measurement unveils state-of-the-art digital gas calibration rig with support from Made Smarter

AN INNOVATIVE manufacturer has taken a major step into the digital age with the launch of a £300,000 gas calibration rig that doubles testing capacity, creates new jobs, and secures the future of one of the UK’s most advanced flow measurement facilities.

Developed by Stream Measurement with support from Made Smarter North West, the government-backed technology adoption programme, the new rig replaces a 40-year-old system that relied on manual processes and legacy software.

The digital system automates certification and data acquisition, and is capable of testing meters from 0.25 to 4,000 cubic metres per hour. Its modern software interface enables real-time analysis and data capture, improving accuracy and reducing reliance on legacy expertise. 

A process that once took a full day can now be completed in a few hours, significantly increasing throughput and opening opportunities to serve new customers across the UK and beyond.

Official launch celebrates regional innovation

The new facility was officially unveiled by Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, at a special event attended by Arooj Shah, leader of Oldham Council, and Alain Dilworth, programme manager for Made Smarter North West, and Stream’s customers and partners.

"Advanced manufacturing has always been at the heart of Greater Manchester’s story, and companies like Stream Measurement show how this globally recognised strength will continue to play a vital role in our future," said Burnham.

"By investing in advanced technology and upskilling their workforce, with the support of Made Smarter, they’re not only growing their own business but strengthening Oldham’s position in the regional economy as we kickstart the next decade of prosperity."

"What we’re seeing here is exactly the kind of innovation and ambition that our city-region is known for: businesses using new technology to boost productivity, create skilled jobs, and build a more sustainable industrial base. Stream’s success demonstrates why Greater Manchester remains one of the best places in the UK for engineering and manufacturing to thrive."

Digital transformation drives efficiency and growth

Founded in 1999, Stream Measurement supplies flow meters and provides calibration, verification, repair, and refurbishment services for industries including utilities, chemicals, oil and gas, food and beverage, and manufacturing.

The 17-strong business was acquired by JWF Process Solutions in 2019 and is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy to triple turnover to £6m through continued investment in its premises, people, processes, and equipment.

Over the past three years, Stream has worked closely with Made Smarter, developing a digital roadmap, securing a £20,000 grant to implement new technology, and building leadership capability through the Leading Change for Digital Champions (LCDC) programme.

"Made Smarter gave us the confidence to modernise one of the most critical parts of our business and invest at a scale we couldn’t have achieved alone. The new technology safeguards existing contracts, strengthens our capability, and creates a platform for future growth," stated Robert Allan, operations director at Stream Measurement.

Upskilling engineers and creating new jobs

The investment is creating five new engineering roles, as the company expands capacity and capability to meet rising demand, and upskilling its existing team, including apprentices, to operate the system.

"Being trained on the new rig has been a huge opportunity. It’s state-of-the-art technology that gives me and the other engineers skills that will be vital for the future of the business," stated apprentice engineer Joe Hewson.

The upgrade supports the company’s ISO 14001, 9001 and 45001 accreditations and its commitment to sustainability, reducing waste and extending the lifespan of refurbished meters. The original rig will be retained as a contingency system, ensuring business continuity and additional testing capacity when needed.

"It has been fantastic to have played a part in Stream Measurement’s digital transformation. It is a great example of what can be achieved when ambition is matched with the right guidance and support," said Alain Dilworth, programme manager for Made Smarter North West.

Launched in 2019, Made Smarter is a UK Government-backed programme designed to help manufacturing SMEs adopt digital technologies and develop the leadership and skills needed to drive sustainable growth.

Since its launch in the North West, Made Smarter has engaged with more than 2,500 manufacturers, delivering over 400 technology projects that are forecast to create 1,850 new jobs, upskill 3,300 existing roles, and add £276m to the regional economy.

For more information: 

www.madesmarter.uk