Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association

Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association
Formation	1952
Purpose/focus	Technical organisation for kitchenware,cutlery, knife and blade manufacturers, retailers and users
Location	Henry Street, Sheffield, UK
Region served	Worldwide
Website	CATRA

The Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association, or CATRA, is an Internationally renowned research and technology organisation in Sheffield, England which specialises in knives, cutlery, flatware, metallic holloware (such as saucepans) and hand/garden tools.

History

It was originally set up by the British Government in 1952 to carry out developments for the UK's cutlery and knife industries, for which the area of Sheffield in Yorkshire is world famous. It is based in the Upperthorpe area of Sheffield close to the A61.

It has developed a range of unique machines for measuring the cutting performance of all types of cutting edges from razor blades to large knives used in machinery and for testing of blade performance in general.

Since 1980s CATRA has become an International leading cutting technology authority supplying consultancy, testing services and knife/blade making and testing equipment to manufacturers, developers, designers, users and retailers. Their particular expertise is strangely unique and is a vibrant lasting memory to the knife history and culture of Sheffield.

Aims

CATRA's aim is to provide manufacturers, retailers and users of all types of cutting implements with independent technical experts that can advise, carry out product comparisons/tests and develop blade, knife and cutting technologies.

Membership

The association has a wealth of knowledge which is available to everyone on a competitive fee paying basis, however CATRA will enter into dialogue with consumers and users of cutlery, knives and tools where their expertise may be of help, on a free of charge basis.

External links

• Official CATRA website
• ISO 8442