Longer service life for molds and tools
The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT demonstrates how tool life cycles can be extended, downtime reduced, and production processes optimized ecologically with its latest developments.
Order intake mechanical engineering April 2026
For the machinery and plant engineering sector in Germany, April showed a mixed picture. Foreign demand is positive, while domestic demand is declining. Political action is needed to create better conditions at the location in Germany.
Precision as a competitive advantage
How demanding industry requirements can be mastered through specialization and teamwork is demonstrated by toolcraft AG, CIMTRODE, and Zecha Hardmetal Tool Manufacturing.
Recycling as the Key to Europe's Hard Metal Supply
ECTA calls for coordinated European action to secure tungsten supply
PKD precision for precise sports weapons
The Swabian traditional gunsmith Carl Walther relies on the tool systems and high-performance PKD cutting material from Paul Horn GmbH for the production of its precision weapons.
From Reactive Intervention to Autonomous Process Control
Why classical SPC approaches in machining reach their limits and APC (Automated Process Control) marks the next development step
SIMTEK relies on recyclates
SIMTEK Precision Tools GmbH is consistently transitioning tool packaging to sustainable circular economy
CERATIZIT secures tungsten supply
Initiative of the Plansee Group to establish a strategic tungsten oxide reserve in the United States
MAPAL is certified for the highest standards
MAPAL Dr. Kress SE & Co. KG, headquartered in Aalen, successfully completed the TISAX certification at Assessment Level 3 in April 2026, thereby meeting the highest requirements for confidentiality and availability. Additionally, the certification according to VDA 6.4 and DIN EN ISO 9001 was extended in the same month.
LICON – Christoph Czoske takes over from Winfried Benz
LiCON restructures management and drives international expansion and growth forward
Awarded for strong ideas and clear values
Dr. Kurt Schmalz and Dipl.-Ing. Wolfgang Schmalz received the Order of Merit from Baden-Württemberg.
Next era of simulation-controlled automation
Together with Visual Components, the KUKA Group is advancing the development of simulation-controlled solutions – from planning to virtual commissioning to operation. The goal is to optimize processes early, reduce risks, and significantly accelerate the implementation of complex automation projects.
In reverse, almost twice as fast
When roughing drive shafts made of alloy steel, WST Precision Engineering could not achieve stable processes with conventional cutting tools. With ISCAR's six-edged QUICKTURN and a new machining strategy, the tide turned.
Competitive thanks to digitization
Tool management system ensures continuous data flow in production