International Metalworking News for Asia

More and more companies are establishing and expanding their international operations for sales, manufacturing, distribution and other key functions. And one of the many goals international machine equipment makers expand within its own assembly site is to gain competitive advantage by reducing lead times. Take for example TRUMPF, who has expanded its facilities to its first Asian production site for marking lasers in Singapore. According to the company, being close to the market and their customers will help them respond to their needs faster and more effective. In the long term, local sourcing of components will enable them to reduce taxes and tariffs incurred when exporting their products to the neighbouring countries.

Moreover, check out this issue's Welding & Fabrication, and see how fibre lasers accurately process different material types and thicknesses. One particular challenge manufacturers are facing right now is how to achieve the power levels necessary to micro weld accurately without distortion. In a competitive global marketplace, it is imperative that they accelerate throughput, while maintaining quality and minimising costs. Learn more as you read: Micro welding small parts using fibre lasers.

On a final note, be sure to view this year's SolidWorks World 2012 highlights found in the CAD/CAM Software section. International Metalworking News for Asia wraps up this year's event including keynote presentation from the father of the iPod Tony Fadell, and a glimpse of what you can expect from SolidWorks 2013.