Production technology for modern factories

Suitable partners who can provide expert support for modernization processes can be found at the trade fair. This saves time and minimizes investment risks. It seems essential to develop confidence in new technologies and solutions, and not just for small and medium-sized companies. Ideally, these should be scalable, have already proven their functionality and bring efficiency gains right from the start. EMO offers direct access to the leading manufacturers and suppliers of customized production solutions in mechanical and plant engineering and documents advances in metalworking. Machine tools can be experienced in action at the trade fair. Exchange ideas with industry experts and specialists at exhibition stands as well as during presentations, workshops and live demonstrations.

"Like no other trade fair, the EMO presents the entire value chain of metalworking, from machine tools, production systems and additive processes to precision tools, automation, metrology, quality assurance, software and accessories," emphasizes Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of the EMO organizer VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association). The EMO motto "Innovate Manufacturing." is therefore more than just a slogan, says Heering, it is a call to suppliers and users to boldly exploit the possibilities of new technologies.

Digitalization is revolutionizing mechanical engineering

This applies in particular to the megatrends of automation, digitalization and artificial intelligence. Advancing digitalization is revolutionizing mechanical engineering, according to the VDW. A decisive factor is the networking of machines along the process chain. Experiencing this live makes the EMO unique. Machine tools are now equipped with extensive sensor and monitoring systems ex works. In discussions with trade fair visitors, the aim is also to dispel concerns about a possible loss of data sovereignty or the threat of cyberattacks. According to exhibitors, it is important to make it easier to get started with data-driven production. Systems are also offered that run exclusively on the machine and in the customer's own network. This means that it remains the sole decision of the user whether to allow data exchange with external parties, such as the machine manufacturer or partners in the value chain, beyond this or at a later date. Real added value arises when, for example, maintenance cycles can be predicted and downtimes minimized or data for documenting the CO2 footprint within the supply chain can be provided at the touch of a button.

Machine learning, a sub-area of artificial intelligence, opens up a new dimension of self-organizing production. This makes it easier for companies to react to market changes and individual customer requirements. This is a crucial prerequisite for maintaining innovation and competitiveness in the long term.

Meeting the skills shortage

Digitalization and automation of production can be combined with strategies to counter the shortage of skilled workers in mechanical and plant engineering. Automated systems support the machine operator, for example through assistance systems, and at the same time increase productivity, quality and efficiency. In addition to technical solutions, the EMO and the Young Talent Foundation for Mechanical Engineering will address the question of how the training of the next generation of skilled workers can best be aligned with the current requirements of technological development, digitalization and artificial intelligence.

The process of change in mechanical and plant engineering also includes the topic of sustainability. More and more countries have adopted measures to protect the climate and invest in the green transformation of their industry. In production, the focus is on using resources more sparingly, using energy-efficient machines and manufacturing processes and implementing a circular economy for products and materials. EMO 2023 already made it clear that visitor interest in this topic in particular is immense, according to the VDW. The Sustainability Area at EMO 2025 will be a meeting place where visitors can experience modern solutions for the sustainable production of tomorrow and have their questions answered. It is clear that this topic is right at the top of the agenda when it comes to modernizing production.

Cornelia Gewiehs