About Us
Precision Testing & Automation, Built Around You
Curtis Assemble & Test Ltd
At Curtis Assemble & Test (CAT), we design and manufacture bespoke automated testing and assembly systems. With over 50 years of engineering heritage, we deliver turnkey solutions that include electrical and mechanical design, in-house software, automation, and full after-sales support.
Our systems are trusted worldwide for hydraulic and pneumatic testing, flow and pressure measurement, in-process cleaning (CIP), leak detection, and vision inspection. By combining decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology, we ensure accuracy, efficiency, and long-term reliability for every project.
OUR MISSION
To achieve a world-class reputation for innovation and quality by:
- Delivering high-performance, bespoke solutions that exceed customer expectations.
- Exploring new technologies in automation, data capture, and system integration.
- Building partnerships based on dependability, efficiency, and problem-solving expertise.
Our Values
- Innovation & Flexibility – Embracing change and tailoring solutions to each client’s needs.
- Excellence & Reliability – Ensuring every system is precise, durable, and fully traceable.
- Customer Focus – Working closely with clients to deliver results that stand the test of time.
- Responsibility – Supporting our team, local community, and environment with integrity.
WE SPECIALISE IN
Hydraulic & Pneumatic Leak Testing
Bespoke rigs for high-pressure hydraulic testing up to 3000 bar and pneumatic testing up to 250 bar.
Flow &
Pressure Measurement
Precision systems measuring flow up to 1800 l/min; pressures up to 3000 bar, with full data logging and traceability.
Vision Inspection Systems
Automated vision technology for component conformity, defect detection, and code reading.
Cleaning in Place (CIP) & High-Pressure Cleaning
In-process cleaning systems for critical components, ensuring contamination-free production.
Automation & System Integration
Turnkey automation and bespoke integration of mechanical, electrical, and software systems.
Repairing & Improving Existing Machines
Retrofits, upgrades, and modifications to extend the life and performance of existing rigs.
Subcontract
Testing
Services
Independent validation of your parts using CAT’s in-house rigs for pressure, leakage, and flow..
Power Packs, Gauging & Deburring
Custom hydraulic power packs and precision systems for pressing, gauging, lapping, and deburring.
OUR STORY
1973 – Family Foundations
Douglas and Richard Curtis, a father-and-son team, founded Douglas Curtis Machine Tools (DCMT). Their mission: rebuild machine tools to a better-than-new standard with a comprehensive, in-house machine shop ensuring quality and delivery control. Pioneers in sustainable engineering long before “recycling” became a trend.
1970s–1980s – Craftsmanship & Growth
DCMT recruited expert craftsmen from leading engineering firms, building a reputation for precision, service, and problem-solving. Expansion moved from retrofitting and reconditioning to developing sub-micron precision CNC grinders.
Early 1990s – High-Pressure Testing Pioneers
DCMT moved into high-pressure testing. There was an increasing demand for special purpose machine-tools or more precisely, bespoke machine tools where a current solution did not exist. In addition, there was a significant growth in the demand for machines to test the conformity and performance of manufactured parts. In addition, the customer wished to find a revolutionary way to speed up or increase the testing of production components, usually the development of new products, processes or find new technical solutions.
1994 – A Dedicated Test Division
In those days high-pressure testing at 500 bar ± 25 bar was considered state of the art and leak testing was monitored by physically counting the drips emerging from a curved pipe. Our first test machine changed all that; test pressures were raised to 1200 bar and leakage measured by precision flow meters and pressure transducers. That first machine ran for almost 15 years on a three-shift basis, seven days a week. (Our current machines offer pressures now up to 3000 bar ± 0.1 and flow monitored to several decimal places).
1998 – Curtis Assemble & Test (CAT)
In early 1998 we were given the opportunity of tendering for a series of machines to initially “run in” and performance test diesel fuel injectors then fit the final protective details prior to shipping. After a long meeting, the customer’s buyer wrote an order number on the back of his business card. Not only that, it was worth £1.2 million, equivalent to £2.6 million today.
More space was needed yet again. There was not the time to extend the factory so we looked for a suitable venue, eventually finding one on the Colchester Business Park, a move to premises five times larger.
This resulted in the formation of the test division which later became Curtis Assemble & Test Ltd and the start of designing and manufacturing bespoke machines, equipment and test cells.
2000s–Today – Global Partnerships
Originally just a few individuals. As the enquiries and orders increased, additional personnel were sought, and employed. Twenty-eight years later we have a very strong, competent core of designers, technicians, software and control systems specialists. We continually push the boundaries of technology to provide solutions to today’s problems. Many of our investigations are to develop a technological advancement and perfect a need for a new process, test or solution to a problem.
From family beginnings to global partnerships — discover how CAT can support your business.
Speak to us about a bespoke solution built on over 50 years of engineering excellence.
MEET THE TEAM
STEVE WARD
Quality Manager
Responsible for maintaining our ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System, ensuring every project meets the highest standards of compliance and reliability.
ANDY MACKAY
Technical Director
Software, vision, and systems integration expert. Known for his technical detail and precision, he ensures CAT machines are robust and future-ready.
RICK BAKER
Managing Director
With over 50 years of engineering experience, Rick leads projects with hands-on management, guiding teams from design through to delivery.
STEVEN WHITTLE
Project Director
Oversees all aspects of projects including design, safety, robotic handling, and software integration, ensuring efficient and reliable system performance.
MACHINES IN ACTION
Got a challenge? Our engineers specialise in solving the toughest problems in testing and automation.
Let’s design a system that turns your toughest engineering challenge into a proven solution.