International Metalworking News for Asia

2021 has been a year of transition. Industrial manufacturing businesses began shaping their futures rather than just grinding through the present as result of the COVID-19 crisis. Industrial manufacturers should take the opportunity to learn from the pandemic on how to redesign workplaces, build healthier work environments, and invest effectively in employee health.

As the transition to digitalisation picks up speed, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have a lot to gain from embracing digital technologies (digitalisation) into their existing business models, which would improve productivity while opening up new revenue streams. International Metalworking News for Asia features companies and agencies around the world with their predictions and technology insights in order to give a clear vision and gain a competitive edge to thrive in the year ahead. Find out more in this month's Outlook 2022 report.

For most of us, the word downtime conjures images of relaxation. For plant managers however, downtime is a word that triggers concerns about lost production and lower revenue. That's especially true for unplanned downtime and there is growing evidence that manufacturers are still unaware of the full impact of the problem. In the Smart Factory section, John Young, APAC sales director at automation parts supplier EU Automation, assesses some of the latest research on manufacturer downtime and the steps manufacturers are taking to address the problem.

The Lasers & Welding section confirms that many companies rely on manual welding, which is both costly and time-consuming. Companies need low-cost solutions to get a foothold in this business – but these are few and far between. TRUMPF unveiled a new solution that aims to help sheet-metal fabricators make the jump into automated laser welding.

In machine shops that work with metals and alloys, factors such as thickness, parallelism, and surface condition are often dictated in the specifications. Grinding is also often utilised to remove significant amounts of material to bring a stock sheet or plate to precise dimensions. This issue of Tooling & Workholding shows advanced rotary surface grinders that deliver endless possibilities and tighter tolerances.

e-mobility, digitalisation and automation: these are just some of the key trends in the grinding technology sector at present. Machine Tool presents research experts and the companies exhibiting at the new GrindingHub trade show. They will be providing insights into the latest technologies and processes in this rapidly developing industry.

Lastly, you need to evaluate what is missing in your company to remain competitive in 2022. Changes will also mean a different focus of your workforce, and you might find a professional shortage of technicians and experts, so start training inside talent to keep up with the new trends in demand.