Germany is immersed in what some are calling the fourth industrial revolution – dubbed Industry 4.0 – and machine builders, automation vendors and industrial end-users are adding to the concept.

Most engineering companies forming thin sheet metal material rely on the capabilities of a CNC press brake. A UK-based manufacturer and supplier of press brake tooling, Rolla-V, has recently enhanced its production capability with the installation of an Excetek V400G CNC wire EDM machine.

Industrial identification systems for tool handling and management benefit shops, according to Siemens. Quick, reliable and clear tool identification eliminates errors during tool data capture and transmission to save time and costs while boosting quality and productivity.

CNC machine manufacturer Anca combines leading-edge technology with operating simplicity. The company's Laser-Plus and MX7 Linear tool grinding machine is the winning combination to produce superior-quality, high-performance cutting tools.

Germany - Euromold is back, now in Düsseldorf. With a new face, a new strategy, less exhibitors and trade show organisers who say they have learned their lesson and have listened to exhibitors and visitors to create the "new Euromold". Here are some impressions from day one.

GF Machining Solutions says its Agie-Charmilles Cut P series wire-cutting electrical discharge machine can do everything from producing very light surgical tools to machining a six-tonne die-casting mould. The Cut P machine series, according to GF, has been designed for demanding high-speed machining.

The well-known German mould-making house Otto Männer recently upgraded its profile grinding capabilities as a way to guarantee the high precision demanded from its broad range of international customers.

Germany – Unknown to many, this very special milling strategy was developed some decades ago. But it was only through the availability of modern machine tools with fast and dynamic controls in combination with appropriate CAM software that the true performance potential of trochoidal milling could be unleashed, LMT Consultant Dr Diethard Thomas explains.

United States - DMG Mori has launched a direct-to-customer sales and service model in the US. The company said it will double its existing local service and sales centres to 27 locations across the country in close proximity to customers. Dr. Thorsten Schmidt will lead DMG Mori USA as CEO.

Belgium – One of the primary challenges in modern machining is keeping the tool lubricated and ensuring chips are removed from the cutting zone. Failure to do so can lead to a multitude of problems, including premature tool wear and damage.