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HANNOVER MESSE 2026 Highlights Industrial AI, Robotics & Global Innovation Amid Strong International Participation

By
Sachin R Nalawade
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HANNOVER MESSE 2026 demonstrated that industry is delivering concrete solutions even in challenging times. Artificial intelligence, automation, and digitalization play a key role in making production processes more efficient and boosting competitiveness.

24 Apr 2026: A total of 110,000 visitors from all over the world took part in the world’s leading trade fair for the manufacturing industry. Although the attendance figure was below the previous year’s level (2025: 123,000 visitors) – airline and public transportation strikes complicated travel – the quality of the encounters and the dynamic atmosphere in the halls clearly show: the technologies are in place, the approaches have been tested, and now it is a matter practicing them consistently.

Despite the difficult conditions in general, the trade fair once again presented highly international characteristics. Around 40 percent of guests came from abroad. The countries contributing the most guests were China, Brazil, the United States, Japan, and South Korea.

“This year’s HANNOVER MESSE was both a technology show and a source of inspiration. The companies showed that Germany and Europe possess the necessary tools to remain competitive. What is crucial now is to decisively take advantage of this potential and put the pedal to the metal,” says Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG.

Innovations that bring the future within grasp

HANNOVER MESSE this year clearly demonstrated that artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, and energy infrastructure are at the heart of the industrial future and are key technologies for transforming industry.

Products and solutions that companies presented include AI-supported production systems and tools that can automate processes and predict failures; humanoid robots that have already mastered complex motion sequences and will work in production and service in the future; and new solutions for energy efficiency and grid expansion that pave the way to a carbon-neutral industry.

The presence of high-caliber representatives of the business and political communities was also striking. More board members of DAX companies and political decision-makers than ever before used the trade fair as a platform for exchange and orientation. Not only German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Brazilian President Lula da Silva, but also Roland Busch (Siemens), Christian Klein (SAP), German Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche and Boris Pistorius, the Germany’s Minister of Defense, were present.

International politicians from Canada’s Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly to Stéphane Séjourné from the European Commission also visited the show.

Industry demands better regulatory conditions and delivers solutions

Leading representatives of industry made it clear that Europe is under pressure as a location for doing business. Inflated costs, excessive regulation, and geopolitical upheaval are leading to growing uncertainty and are noticeably impacting companies’ competitiveness.

But HANNOVER MESSE revealed with clarity that solutions are available. Companies are investing in future technologies, driving innovation, and opening new markets. Exhibitors reported intensive discussions, specific projects, and great international interest.

“The new HANNOVER MESSE concept is a success. The Center Stage was especially well received,” says Dr. Gunther Kegel, President of ZVEI (Association of the German Electrical and Digital Industry) and Chairman of the HANNOVER MESSE Exhibitor Advisory Board. “This strengthens our profile as a place for high-level exchange, particularly with politicians,” observed Kegel. “HANNOVER MESSE sends an unmistakable signal in terms of content: we urgently need rapid deregulation so that we can assert ourselves as a location amid international competition, especially in the field of industrial AI. Companies have impressively demonstrated the potential of the technology. Now Berlin and Brussels need to eliminate barriers to progress.”

“HANNOVER MESSE and the companies from the machine and plant building sector strikingly demonstrated that they are meeting the challenges of a world characterized by multiple crises. Digitalization of our industry is progressing at a rapid pace, while AI and humanoid robotics represented the defining themes at this trade fair,” adds VDMA Managing Director Thilo Brodtmann. “Industrial SMEs want to supply technologies that will keep us internationally competitive in the future, and they can do it too. Politicians in Berlin and Brussels must contribute to this urgently. We need the far-reaching reforms that have been promised. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche have made corresponding announcements here at the trade fair, and they will be judged on them.”

Partner country Brazil: impulses at the right time

Partner Country Brazil was a strong addition to HANNOVER MESSE and a driving force at the right time. With a broad spectrum of industrial, energy, and digitalization topics, Brazil presented itself as a dynamic growth market and dependable partner for international cooperation.

“Especially in a time of global upheaval and shifting trade relations, this partnership sends an important message: for greater diversification, more resilient supply chains, and closer cooperation between Europe and Latin America,” said Köckler, adding that the Mercosur agreement, which will soon come into force, has given a significant boost to the partner country’s participation and provided new impetus for economic cooperation.

Innovations inspire exhibitors and visitors

HANNOVER MESSE 2026 not only featured convincing content, but also an enhanced trade fair concept. The new hall plan provided clear orientation, enabling visitors to use their time more efficiently.

The new networking formats also proved popular, with the Masterclasses delivering real added value for exhibitors. In compact, practical sessions, companies presented their expertise in a targeted manner and engaged directly with potential customers.

The Center Stage established itself as a central platform for knowledge transfer, discussion, and inspiration, and was a magnet for crowds. It attracted around 30,000 visitors with a top-tier program across all days of the fair. The consistently strong response shows that orientation and exchange around major transformation are in great demand. HANNOVER MESSE provides the right space for this.

HANNOVER MESSE 2027: even more efficient and attractive

Looking to 2027, HANNOVER MESSE continues its consistent path to further development.

For instance, the new “Europe Energy Week” will run parallel to HANNOVER MESSE. In cooperation with the event organizer dmg events, the show will bring together energy producers, industrial companies, infrastructure operators, and political decision-makers while promoting exchange around Europe’s energy future.

One key innovation concerns the duration of the trade fair: From 2027 on, HANNOVER MESSE will concentrate on the days that attract the most visitors, running run from Monday, 5 April, to Thursday, 8 April. This focus represents a targeted approach to attracting visitors and well-known figures while generating business. This makes the trade fair even more efficient and attractive for all participants.

Köckler: “HANNOVER MESSE continues to develop consistently and will be more focused, more efficient, and closer to industry. Thematically, the specific application of AI as well as its physical implementation are moving into focus. The combination of artificial intelligence with real machines and production systems will shape HANNOVER MESSE over the coming years and mark the next major step in the development of industry.”

HANNOVER MESSE

HANNOVER MESSE is the world’s leading trade fair for the manufacturing industry. Roughly 3,000 exhibiting companies from the electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, digital, and energy sectors come together to present solutions for competitive and sustainable industry. The main exhibition areas are Automation & Digitalization, Energy & Industrial Infrastructure, and Research & Technology Transfer. The topic artificial intelligence is a common thread through all exhibition areas. A diverse conference program enhances the fair. The next edition runs in Hannover from 20 to 24 April 2026. Brazil is Partner Country. The next HANNOVER MESSE runs from 5 to 8 April 2027. Spain is Partner Country.

Visit – https://www.hannovermesse.de/en

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Powering Aerospace & Defence Innovation with the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform: Key Insights from the On-Demand Webinar

By
Sachin R Nalawade
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The aerospace and defence (A&D) industry is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by increasing product complexity, sustainability goals, and the need for faster innovation cycles. The on-demand webinar on 3DEXPERIENCE platform highlights how digital technologies are reshaping the way organizations design, develop, and deliver next-generation aerospace systems.

This session provides a comprehensive overview of how virtual twin technology, integrated data environments, and collaborative engineering are enabling companies to accelerate innovation while maintaining quality, compliance, and efficiency.

The Changing Landscape of Aerospace & Defence

The A&D sector faces multiple challenges today—rising demand, increasing system complexity, stringent regulatory requirements, and the need for sustainable solutions. Organizations must innovate faster while ensuring reliability and safety.

Digital platforms like 3DEXPERIENCE are addressing these challenges by enabling a connected ecosystem where all stakeholders—from design to manufacturing to operations—can collaborate seamlessly. The platform integrates the entire product lifecycle, allowing real-time access to data and improved decision-making.

Virtual Twin: The Core of Innovation

A major highlight of the webinar is the concept of virtual twin experiences. Unlike traditional simulation, virtual twins provide a dynamic, real-time representation of products and processes.

With virtual twins, aerospace companies can:

  • Simulate aircraft performance before physical prototypes
  • Validate designs under real-world conditions
  • Optimize manufacturing processes
  • Improve maintenance and lifecycle management

This approach significantly reduces development time, minimizes risks, and enhances overall product quality.

Integrated Platform for End-to-End Lifecycle

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform brings together multiple disciplines into a single, unified environment. From concept design to production and maintenance, all stakeholders work on a shared data model.

Key capabilities highlighted in the webinar include:

  • Collaborative design and engineering across teams
  • Product lifecycle management (PLM) for structured data control
  • Simulation and validation using advanced tools
  • Manufacturing planning and execution integration

This integrated approach ensures that all teams have access to accurate, up-to-date information, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Driving Innovation with Data and AI

The webinar also emphasizes the role of data-driven decision-making and AI in modern aerospace development. By leveraging connected data environments, organizations can:

  • Identify potential issues early in the design phase
  • Optimize performance using predictive analytics
  • Improve program management and risk mitigation

AI-powered insights enable engineers to make faster and more informed decisions, ultimately accelerating time-to-market.

Enhancing Collaboration Across the Ecosystem

Aerospace programs typically involve a vast network of suppliers, partners, and stakeholders. Managing this complexity requires seamless collaboration.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform enables:

  • Real-time collaboration across global teams
  • Secure data sharing between partners
  • Improved visibility into project status and progress

This ensures that all stakeholders are aligned, reducing delays and improving project outcomes.

Supporting Sustainability and Future Mobility

Sustainability is becoming a key focus in aerospace, with increasing pressure to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. The webinar highlights how digital platforms support:

  • Development of lightweight and fuel-efficient designs
  • Optimization of manufacturing processes
  • Exploration of new technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft

By enabling simulation-driven innovation, the platform helps organizations achieve sustainability goals while maintaining performance and safety standards.

Real-World Impact on Aerospace Organizations

The adoption of integrated digital platforms is already delivering measurable benefits across the industry:

  • Reduced development cycles
  • Improved product quality and reliability
  • Enhanced collaboration across teams
  • Lower costs through optimized processes

Companies leveraging the 3DEXPERIENCE platform are better positioned to handle complex programs and adapt to evolving market demands.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform is playing a pivotal role in transforming the aerospace and defence industry. By combining virtual twin technology, integrated data environments, and collaborative workflows, it empowers organizations to innovate faster and deliver high-quality products.

This webinar clearly demonstrates that the future of aerospace lies in digital transformation—where data, simulation, and collaboration come together to create smarter, more efficient, and sustainable solutions.

🎥 Watch the full webinar:

Aerospace and Defence Companies, to explore more and get a demo, contact BEACON India

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Enhancing Electrical Design Efficiency with SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026: Key Takeaways from the BEACON India Webinar

By
Sachin R Nalawade
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0
SE26

In today’s fast-paced product development environment, electrical design teams are under constant pressure to deliver faster, more accurate, and well-documented projects. The latest on-demand webinar by BEACON India on SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026 provides valuable insights into how modern ECAD tools are evolving to meet these demands.

This session highlights practical enhancements in schematic design, documentation, manufacturer part management, and 3D electrical integration—helping engineering teams streamline workflows and improve collaboration across disciplines.

The Growing Need for Integrated Electrical Design

Electrical and mechanical teams often work in silos, leading to inefficiencies, design errors, and delays. Solutions like SOLIDWORKS Electrical aim to bridge this gap by enabling real-time collaboration and unified project data management.

The webinar emphasizes how integrated ECAD-MCAD workflows are no longer optional—they are essential for delivering complex electromechanical products efficiently.

Key Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026

1. Smarter Schematic Design

One of the major focus areas is improving schematic design productivity. The latest enhancements allow engineers to:

  • Create and modify schematics faster
  • Reduce repetitive tasks through automation
  • Maintain consistency across large electrical projects

New capabilities such as improved connector management and easier updates to existing schematics reduce rework and enhance design clarity.

2. Improved Documentation & PDF Output

Documentation plays a critical role in manufacturing and project delivery. The webinar highlights improvements in:

  • Flexible PDF export options
  • Better organization of project documentation
  • Enhanced reporting capabilities

These updates ensure that electrical documentation is more structured, accurate, and easier to share across teams and stakeholders.

3. Enhanced Manufacturer Part Management

Managing manufacturer parts efficiently is crucial for maintaining accurate BOMs and avoiding costly errors.

SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026 introduces:

  • Faster import of manufacturer parts from Excel
  • Improved library management
  • Better association of components with terminals and circuits

This helps engineers create more reliable and complete electrical designs while reducing manual data entry.

4. Advanced Electrical 3D & Routing Capabilities

A key highlight of the webinar is the integration between schematic design and 3D routing.

With SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D, engineers can:

  • Place electrical components directly in 3D assemblies
  • Automatically route wires and cables
  • Generate accurate wire lengths and harness documentation

This seamless ECAD-MCAD integration improves design accuracy and reduces errors during manufacturing and assembly.

Real-World Impact on Engineering Teams

The webinar goes beyond features and focuses on practical applications. Engineering teams can:

  • Reduce design cycle time
  • Improve cross-team collaboration
  • Minimize errors in documentation and routing
  • Deliver projects faster with higher accuracy

By leveraging automation and integrated workflows, companies can move toward a more connected and efficient design environment.

Why This Matters for the Industry

As products become more complex, electrical systems are increasingly intertwined with mechanical design. The ability to manage this complexity through a unified platform is becoming a competitive advantage.

SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026 addresses key industry challenges by:

  • Enabling concurrent engineering
  • Improving data consistency across teams
  • Supporting scalable and collaborative project environments

The BEACON India webinar effectively demonstrates how SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026 is empowering engineering teams with smarter tools, better collaboration, and enhanced productivity.

For electrical design engineers, this is a valuable opportunity to understand how the latest advancements in ECAD technology can simplify workflows and improve project outcomes.

As digital transformation continues across manufacturing and product development, adopting integrated solutions like SOLIDWORKS Electrical will be key to staying competitive.

🎥 Watch the on-demand webinar:

For more details on SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2026, contact the BEACON India Team

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ENCY Hyper Update Enhances Hybrid Robot Programming, Mixed-Brand Cells and 3D Vision Capabilities

By
Sachin R Nalawade
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0
Ency software logo

Limassol, Cyprus | 22 Apr 2026

ENCY Software has released a major update for ENCY Hyper, its hybrid robot programming system.

Hybrid programming combines offline preparation with live work on the real robot in a single workflow. Offline programming on its own is rarely enough, because even a well-prepared program still needs adjustment on the shop floor. Online programming on its own is slower, ties up the cell, and leaves less room for advance verification. ENCY Hyper brings the two together: users can build and check a project in a digital environment, then connect to the real robot to refine motion and run the job. That makes robot programming faster to prepare and easier to bring into production.

ENCY Hyper expands support for industrial robot brands

The new version expands support for industrial robot brands. ENCY Hyper now works with
ABB, AUCTECH, BORUNTE, CRP Robot, DENSO, Dobot, Doosan Robotics, Elite Robots, Epson Robots, FAIRINO, FANUC, Flexiv, Han’s Robot, JAKA, JHY Robotic, Kawasaki, KUKA KRC4 and newer, KUKA KRC2, Mecademic, OMRON, Techman Robot, Rozum, Stäubli, STEP, Universal Robots, and Yaskawa.
This makes ENCY Hyper a better fit for mixed robot fleets and for production environments that are not built around a single brand.

ENCY Hyper supports for SCARA robots

The release also adds support for SCARA robots, extending ENCY Hyper into pick-and-place and other compact handling applications where this robot format is widely used.

ENCY Hyper now supports 3D cameras

ENCY Hyper now supports 3D cameras for two tasks: surface detection and part position detection. This allows users to build workflows in which robot motion depends not only on a predefined path, but also on actual geometry and real part location. Support for RealSense cameras is already included.

New ENCY Hyper tab based workflow

The new tab-based workflow lets users start a new project without interrupting an active robot session. One tab can control a real robot while another is used to prepare the next job. ENCY Hyper can also handle multiple robots in parallel within one session. In practical terms, the current task does not have to stop while the next one is being prepared.

ENCY Hyper supports projects with robots from different manufacturers

ENCY Hyper now also supports projects that combine robots from different manufacturers in one environment. This makes it possible to configure heterogeneous robot cells within a single project. In other words, robots that normally sit in separate vendor ecosystems can now be managed in one ENCY Hyper workspace.

ENCY Hyper license activation

The built-in updater makes the system easier to live with day to day: future ENCY Hyper versions will arrive automatically, without a separate update routine. License activation has also been simplified. A license can now be activated by scanning a QR code with a phone. Together, these changes make ENCY Hyper easier to deploy, easier to start using, and easier to keep current.

Users can learn the new functionality through ENCY Academy. The ENCY Hyper course currently includes 10 lessons and covers the full workflow in the system, from cell creation and kinematics setup to project preparation and connection to real robot controllers. The same materials are also available in a dedicated YouTube playlist.

This update strengthens ENCY Hyper in the areas where automation projects most often run into practical limits: mixed robot fleets, vision-based tasks, and production workflows where one job cannot be paused just to prepare the next. ENCY Hyper is increasingly becoming a single working environment where users can prepare a project, verify it, connect to a real robot, and take it into execution without breaking the workflow between stages. As more production systems combine multiple robot brands, machine vision, and tighter process logic, platforms built around that kind of workflow become more valuable.

Siemens USA Appoints Mesut Eken as CFO w.e.f. Aug 1, 2026

By
Nitin Patil
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Mesut Eken

WASHINGTON DC, USA, Apr 24, 2026 – Siemens announced, effective August 1st, Mesut Eken will take over as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Siemens USA. In this role, Eken will serve as the financial leader for Siemens’ largest market globally, driving financial strategy, capital stewardship, and operational performance across the company’s extensive U.S. footprint.

“Mesut brings the right expertise and a deep understanding of Siemens to this role at a critical time for accelerating growth in the United States,” said Ann Fairchild, President and CEO of Siemens USA. “I look forward to working with him to maximize our impact in the company’s largest market, recognizing that a strong financial strategy goes hand in hand with our ability to build the future of American industry and infrastructure.”

Eken is an experienced finance executive whose Siemens career spans nearly three decades of leadership within Siemens and the industrial sector. He joins the U.S. leadership team from his role as CFO of the Motion Control Business Unit within Siemens Digital Industries, where he oversaw financial operations. Before that, he spent several years within Siemens Corporate Finance Headquarters in Munich, leading both Shareholder Controlling and Internal Financial Disclosure — roles that gave him a holistic view of the company’s financial positioning at the highest level.

“Having grown with Siemens across markets and businesses, it’s a privilege to take on this role in the United States,” said Eken. “The U.S. is a critical driver of Siemens’ global growth, and I look forward to partnering closely with our teams to deliver disciplined financial leadership that supports continued investment, innovation, and long-term value creation for our customers and stakeholders.”

After beginning his professional career as a Siemens apprentice, Eken has worked across many business units and regions across the company. Earlier in his career, he served as CFO for Siemens Mobility’s Intelligent Traffic Systems business, sharpening his expertise at the intersection of finance and complex infrastructure.

He holds an Executive MBA from ESMT – European School of Management and Technology in Berlin, a Bachelor of Commercial Economics from HZ University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, and a Business Management degree from FOM Hochschule in Essen, Germany.

For more information on Siemens in the USA, visit: https://news.siemens.com/en-us/

About Siemens

Siemens Corporation is a U.S. subsidiary of Siemens AG, a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. The company’s purpose is to create technology to transform the everyday, for everyone. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers customers to accelerate their digital and sustainability transformations, making factories more efficient, cities more livable, and transportation more sustainable. A leader in industrial AI, Siemens leverages its deep domain know-how to apply AI – including generative AI – to real-world applications, making AI accessible and impactful for customers across diverse industries. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company Siemens Healthineers, a leading global medical technology provider pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably.

In fiscal year 2025, which ended on September 30, 2025, the Siemens Group USA generated revenue of $24.427 billion with 25 manufacturing sites across the U.S and more than 50,000 employees serving customers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.

Schaeffler Plans to Deploy Fleet of Hexagon’s AEON Humanoids across its Global Factory Network 

By
Nitin Patil
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ZURICH, Switzerland, Apr 24, 2026 – Hexagon Robotics’ Division and the motion technology company Schaeffler announced the expansion of their strategic partnership to accelerate the rollout of humanoid robots, AEON, across factories worldwide, following the successful completion of a joint pilot program in 2025.

Manufacturers are under growing pressure to increase flexibility, improve efficiency, and enhance sustainability. This partnership marks a significant step toward bringing humanoid robots into production environments, as Schaeffler plans to deploy at least 1,000 Hexagon Robotics humanoids across its global production system by 2032. Schaeffler will also provide its high-precision actuators to AEON, further strengthening the technological alignment between the two companies.

“We have developed a humanoid specifically for the industrial market, leveraging our core expertise in sensor fusion, spatial intelligence, and physical AI. We are delighted to see our humanoid AEON move into real-world production,” said Arnaud Robert, President of Hexagon Robotics. “Working with Schaeffler allows us to deliver demonstrable business value across various factory environments and scale our operations.”

During the pilot phase, AEON used its unique sensor suite and wheel-based locomotion to demonstrate high-precision manipulation capabilities in operating a multi-machine station to load, unload, and inspect parts, in real-world production environment. AEON was featured at both Schaeffler’s Global Production Forum 2025 and Schaeffler Partner Days 2026.

Building on the successful pilot, the companies will now move to deployment across multiple sites, with additional applications, such as automated part inspection, targeted for rollout starting at the end of 2026.

A key focus of the partnership is the generation and use of real-world production data to enable faster deployment of AEONs across new use cases and production settings.

Dr. Jochen Schröder, Chief Operating Officer at Schaeffler AG, says: “Our innovative actuator platform is the technology backbone for the next generation of humanoid robots. In other words, we are creating the foundation for making humanoid robotics fit for widespread use. The cooperation with Hexagon Robotics shows how Schaeffler combines hardware excellence with industrial application. Not only are we developing key components, we are also integrating robots from Hexagon systematically into our own plants with the clear aim of further boosting our competitiveness through the use of physical AI.”

Together, the two companies share a commitment to driving innovation in manufacturing and exploring next-generation autonomous solutions. For Hexagon Robotics, the partnership reinforces its mission to bring advanced robotics into real industrial use at scale. For Schaeffler, it represents a key step in progressing its vision of highly automated, data-driven production.

Learn more about AEON here.

About Hexagon

Hexagon is the global leader in measurement technologies. We provide the confidence that vital industries rely on to build, navigate, and innovate. From microns to Mars, our solutions ensure productivity, quality, safety, and sustainability in everything from manufacturing and construction to mining and autonomous systems.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 24,800 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 5.4bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com.

VBN Components Enables Wear Resistant AM Integration in Large Slurry Pumps

By
Nitin Patil
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VBN Slurry pumps AM

UPPSALA, Sweden, Apr 24, 2026 – VBN Components, in collaboration with a major pump manufacturer, has successfully demonstrated a new method for integrating additively manufactured (AM) cemented carbide into large-scale cast components. By casting directly onto Vibenite 480, the solution enables a step-change in wear resistance for slurry pumps or other casted equipment — without the need to manufacture full size components additively.

The breakthrough is made possible by introducing a Vibenite Nucleation Net Zone (VNNZ) during the 3D printing process. This engineered interface allows high chromium cast iron to bond effectively to the extremely wear-resistant Vibenite 480 during casting.

Wear testing in representative slurry pump environments shows that Vibenite® 480 delivers exceptional performance, with erosive wear resistance approximately 10 times higher than high chromium cast iron and about 100 times higher than hardened steel plate.

While these properties are well established, the size limitations of current metal AM systems make it impractical to print meter-scale pump housings. This has driven the development of a hybrid approach: placing smaller, strategically designed AM components in the most exposed wear zones within a casting mold.

Without the VNNZ, molten cast iron tends to melt or intermix with the printed inserts, compromising both geometry and material performance. The VNNZ eliminates this issue, ensuring structural integrity and strong metallurgical bonding during casting.

Following successful trials, the technology will now be verified in full-scale slurry pump housings, targeting the most critical wear areas. The approach is flexible, allowing for wear components of virtually any geometry—not limited to flat plates.

By enabling precise placement of Vibenite® 480 only where it is needed, this method provides a scalable and cost-efficient route to significantly extended component lifetime in demanding expensive applications.

“-This is an exciting development for our additive manufacturing technology. We are demonstrating how the superior wear resistance of Vibenite® 480 can be integrated into large industrial components in a practical and scalable way—combining material performance with the design freedom of AM. It opens up significant new business opportunities,” says Dr Ulrik Beste, CTO of VBN Components. 

For more information, about VBN Components, visit https://vbncomponents.com.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Wipro 3D Sign MoU to Establish AM Centre of Excellence at TTTI in Bengaluru

By
Nitin Patil
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TKM Wipro 3D

BENGALURU, India, Apr 24, 2026 – Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) signed an MoU with Wipro 3D to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in additive manufacturing at the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) in Bidadi (situated on Bengaluru – Mysuru expressway, part of the Ramnagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka). The initiative aims to strengthen industry–academia collaboration while building future-ready capabilities in advanced manufacturing technologies.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior leadership from both organizations. From Toyota Kirloskar Motor, key dignitaries included Hiroki Ando, Vice President – HR & Services, Lakshmikeshava Shastry, Vice President, Information Technology, Digital & Cyber Security, K. J. Lohith Kumar, General Manager, Toyota University; R. Mahadevan, General Manager – Digital Transformation (DX). Representing Wipro 3D was Pratik Kumar, CEO, Wipro Infrastructure Engineering; Yathiraj Kasal, General Manager & Business Head, Wipro 3D; and Deepak, Sales Head, Wipro 3D.

The CoE will serve as a dedicated platform for skill development, applied learning, and innovation, equipping students with hands-on exposure to additive manufacturing and its real-world industrial applications. The collaboration is designed to integrate emerging manufacturing technologies into training programs and help students gain hands-on experience in modern production environments.

TTTI

As part of the engagement, Wipro 3D will provide technical expertise, workforce upskilling, structured training modules, and access to advanced additive manufacturing capabilities. The program will include internships, apprenticeships, live industry projects, certification courses, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. It will also focus on Kaizen-driven continuous improvement practices and Industry 4.0 technologies such as digital manufacturing, smart systems, and resource optimization.

A key focus of the CoE will be the application of additive manufacturing in production and assembly processes. Leveraging Wipro 3D’s capabilities, the initiative will support rapid prototyping, development of production aids, lightweight and optimized components, and on-demand manufacturing of parts. This is expected to accelerate new product development (NPD), improve assembly line efficiency, reduce lead times, and enhance operational flexibility.

Pratik Kumar, CEO, Wipro Infrastructure Engineering (WIN) & Managing Director, Wipro Enterprises said, “At Wipro Infrastructure Engineering, we believe that sustained partnerships are key to unlocking long-term value. This MoU with TKM provides a strong platform to co-create solutions, deepen engagement, and advance additive manufacturing capabilities.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. G. Shankara, Chief Strategy Officer, TKM, said, “Our Human Resource Development philosophy at TKM follows core principles of Toyota such as, Continue the Quest for Improvement, Show Respect for People, under which we thrive hard to develop individuals in the Latest Technology of the New Age Era of automotive field. We are also committed to nurturing skilled talent and strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem. This collaboration will play an imperative role in nurturing future-ready talent, while contributing meaningfully to the Government’s Skill India Mission.” 

Yathiraj Kasal, Business Head and General Manager, Wipro 3D, said, “This association reflects our commitment to strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem through capability building and innovation, while creating industry-relevant learning experiences.”

Established in 2007, TTTI has emerged as a model institution for vocational education in India, offering a three-year fully residential training program in key trades including Automobile Assembly, Welding, Painting, and Mechatronics. In 2023, TTTI significantly expanded its annual intake from 1200 to 2400 students, with half the seats now reserved for female candidates, advancing gender inclusion in technical education.

About Wipro Limited

Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) is a leading global information technology, consulting, and business process services company. We harness the power of cognitive computing, hyper-automation, robotics, cloud, analytics, and emerging technologies to help our clients adapt to the digital world and make them successful. A company recognized globally for its comprehensive portfolio of services, strong commitment to sustainability and good corporate citizenship, we have over 170,000 dedicated employees serving clients across six continents. Together, we discover ideas and connect the dots to build a better and a bold new future. For more information, visit www.wipro.com.

Freemelt Receives Follow-on Order from Swedish Defense Company

By
Nitin Patil
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0
Freemelt1

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Apr 27, 2026 – Freemelt has received a follow-on order from a leading Swedish defense company for continued development and prototype manufacturing of components for the defense industry.

The order builds on a previously completed feasibility study containing material qualification of complex materials for additive manufacturing (3D printing) and application tests. This confirms the continued confidence in Freemelt’s technology and capabilities in manufacturing components in complex materials. The order is part of the ongoing work to evaluate and qualify components for future defense applications, with the ambition to enable the next step towards verification of scalable production and future serial production.

“The fact that the project is now entering proof-of-concept is an important step towards our goal of serial production of components for the defense industry, and proof that Freemelt’s technology meets the customer’s high demands. We look forward to continuing to support the customer in the next step of the development,” says Daniel Gidlund, CEO of Freemelt.

About Freemelt

Freemelt develops advanced 3D printers for metal components and aims to become the leading supplier in additive manufacturing (AM) using E-PBF technology, targeting SEK 1 billion in revenue by 2030. The solutions primarily support companies in the defense, energy, and medical technology sectors in Europe, U.S. and Asia, enabling them to drive innovation and improve production efficiency.

Founded in 2017, Freemelt has expanded its product portfolio to include three printer models, with two designed for industrial production and one (Freemelt ONE) targeting research institutes and universities. The modular industrial printers (eMELT) leverage E-PBF technology, delivering significantly higher efficiency compared to other machines on the market while maintaining flexibility in metal selection.

Freemelt generates revenue primarily through the sale of advanced 3D printers at fixed prices, complemented by support and maintenance services, which are expected to account for 25% of total revenue by 2030.

The company is now focused on further industrializing its product and service portfolio and driving commercialization in the European, North American, and Asian markets. Read more at www.freemelt.com

Colibrium Receives $31 Million NAVAIR Contract to Advance Metal Additive Manufacturing

By
Nitin Patil
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CINCINNATI, OH, USA, Apr 24, 2026 – Colibrium Additive, a GE Aerospace company, has been awarded a $31 million contract by NAVAIR in support of its Additive Manufacturing Capability initiative, which aims to enable expedited testing, qualification and certification of metal additively manufactured parts and improve the U.S. Navy’s operational readiness. 

Under that agreement, Colibrium Additive will deliver six metal alloy Material Process Combinations (MPCs) which are the detailed metal alloy’s physical and mechanical property data; optimize process parameters; consolidate material and process specifications; and establish design allowables for the properties tested. This includes expanding the existing AlSi7Mg and IN718 packages, and adding 17-4PH and 7050-RAM2 to the current portfolio of 316L, CoCr, and Ti64. A dedicated thin-wall fatigue characterization will help validate the performance and fatigue life of thin-wall geometries, supporting the qualification and certification of additively manufactured structures for aviation use.

Colibrium Additive M Line

Under the agreement, and to meet NAVAIR required development timelines, Colibrium Additive will also deliver three M Line metal 3D printing systems and one M2 Series 5 printer required to support the MPC development effort, and a comprehensive AddWorks™ services package is also included. This package includes licensed material characterization/data curves, manufacturing process instructions, and select specifications to support the additive manufacture of NAVAIR components, as well as a training program to enable repeatable production of airworthy parts. 

Together, these elements are intended to shorten lead times for critical components, improve fleet sustainment and enhance overall naval aviation readiness.  

The program also includes a comprehensive training plan for teams in manufacturing, quality, design, and materials, as well as for machine operators, to build enduring in-house capability. 

“Colibrium Additive is proud to extend its support of NAVAIR with proven metal additive technology and deep application expertise,” said Lars Bruns, executive technology leader at Colibrium Additive. “By combining certified hardware with licensed process data and hands-on training, we are helping accelerate the Navy’s ability to produce repeatable, airworthy components at scale and reduce supply chain risk for critical aviation parts.” 

About Colibrium Additive

Colibrium Additive, a GE Aerospace company, is a trusted leader in providing 3D printers, powders, and services for industrial scale metal additive manufacturing. We empower our customers to design and build innovative new products that solve manufacturing challenges and improve business outcomes. For more information, visit https://www.colibriumadditive.com.

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