International Metalworking News for Asia

Every year the business world is overloaded with buzz words, and the metalworking supply chain sector is no different. In 2017, there was a lot of talk about innovation, digitalisation, and automation. Technology is at the centre of many of these changes, as organisations consider how big data, artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and more can transform their businesses. The manufacturing supply chain is a reasonable place to start leveraging new technology for good business value. Five industry experts weighed in on which trends we’ll be looking for in the 2018 manufacturing supply chain in Asia. Find out more in this month's Outlook section. If you’re looking for a cutting machine that can widen your boundaries, a laser cutting machine has a universe of possibilities. Buying your first laser cutting machine can be a daunting challenge, especially if you’re budget-minded. TRUMPF is introducing a new laser cutting machine, the TruLaser 2030 fiber. Equipped with up to four kilowatts of laser power, which is remarkably productive. Machine shops around the world have only known one way of turning – and that approach has been around for decades, arguably spanning back not just one but two generations. But what if there was something that could deliver genuine competitive gain? To make such a leap, the very principles of conventional turning would have to be challenged. This is the exact thinking applied by Sandvik Coromant in its development of PrimeTurning, a revolutionary new process that has to be seen to be believed. As manufacturers are often hard pressed for time, the speed at which inspections and measurements for quality control can be performed is an important factor. In this regard, non-contact 3D scanning solutions possess a clear advantage because the speed at which it collects data points far exceeds that of touch probes. Willie Tan of FARO Technologies explained the difference between non-contact and contact 3D scanning solution in order to make the right choice in meeting operational needs. 2017 has been a remarkable year for many businesses in Asia, and has set the stage for what promises to be an amazing 2018. As the hectic holiday season winds down, take a moment to read our February issue of International Metalworking News for Asia magazine. What sort of stories do you require to enhance your manufacturing business? Let us know your thoughts. E-mail us.