The German machine tool industry is rapidly diversifying as reliance on the automotive sector declines. Key manufacturers are adapting to new markets, including electric vehicles and engineering, showcasing the industry's resilience and innovation amid shifting industrial demands.

The German machine tool industry, still reliant on the automotive sector, is diversifying amid shifts towards electromobility. Despite global competition, Germany remains a leading machine tool exporter. Economic pressures and fluctuating orders challenge the industry, prompting diplomatic efforts to maintain market stability.

In response to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, the German machine tool industry is seeking to broaden its global market presence. The German Machine Tool Builders' Association is aiding this effort with a symposium held on 10 July 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A new stand-alone software solution launched by Vericut maximises the potential of CNC machining programs. Users of Vericut Optimizer profit from the power of data-driven optimisation strategies and tool paths that work with both speed and precision.

Walter introduces the WT26 indexable inserts and compatible turning toolholder system, a game-changer for precision machining on Swiss-type sliding-head turning centers. Designed for bars under 20 mm, the WT26 system delivers high stability, process reliability, and vibration resistance through its dovetail clamp and extensive contact surface.

Inovatools enhances metalworking with its “First Choice” range — a specialized selection of high-performance tools tailored to meet a variety of machining needs. With innovations like the ultra-hard ta-C coating for aluminium, the company delivers tools that extend durability, boost abrasion resistance, and reduce heat buildup.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, Heller Machine Tools in Redditch stands as a testament to five decades of engineering excellence and innovation. Since its inception, the UK subsidiary of German-based Gebr. Heller Maschinenfabrik has grown into a vital global center for machining solutions, specializing in the production of advanced 4- and 5-axis horizontal machining centers.

In recent years, Porsche Werkzeugbau in Schwarzenberg, Germany, has taken its mechanical machining to the highest technical level. Two large Starrag HSC machining centres Droop+Rein Fogs play a major part in this. The machines are used to finish press tools for moulding skin parts of vehicle bodies with the utmost precision and produce surfaces with grinding quality.

Koller Formenbau increases the performance and process reliability of its Cheto IXN 3000 travelling column deep-hole drilling and milling centre with the Nano Coolant cooling lubricant — with impressive results.

The precision tool manufacturer Simtek is venturing into the field of hard metal with the laser. Laser-cut chip shape geometries are a minor revolution for the production of tools for metal cutting. What previously seemed impossible has now been proven in numerous projects. An interview with the board and experienced tool developer Norbert Seifermann.