A new machine size is redefining what is possible in injection moulding. Engel’s duo 12000 US is built for very large-format components and aims to make gigamoulding a viable option for more cost-efficient, integrated and resource-saving production.

A new milestone in autonomous injection moulding has earned Engel the Swiss Plastics Expo Award 2026. At the Lucerne show, the company presented its first self-regulating injection moulding cell, combining an all-electric e-mac machine with inject AI to optimise process stability, reduce scrap and ease operator workload.

The long-negotiated trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc has entered a decisive phase, with EU member states clearing the way for signature in early 2026. While political debate continues, particularly around sensitive sectors, the agreement is increasingly relevant for industrial value chains.

At K 2025, Arburg will showcase the “Nextgen Medical Solution” developed in collaboration with Sanofi and partners Hack Formenbau and HB-Therm. The turnkey production cell for injector pen caps demonstrates how early cooperation, digital networking and intelligent assistance systems can reduce costs, energy use and footprint while ensuring high part quality and productivity in medical technology.

A global garden and power-tool brand has brought the production of two critical thermoset engine components in-house at its US plant to stabilise dimensional accuracy and functional quality. Central to the new injection moulding cell is a fully automated, inline de-flashing solution from Rösler.

More global than ever, Plastpol 2026 will bring together around 600 companies from over 30 countries, reinforcing Poland’s role as a growing hub for technology, supply chains and industrial partnerships in the plastics sector.

As tools move across plants, suppliers and systems, structured asset management becomes a competitive factor. Carlos Saboga explains what moulders and OEMs should monitor, where many companies still fall short, and how better tooling data supports performance.

When 150 mouldmakers in a 320-strong manufacturing group adopt one cooling concept across the toolroom, it is worth paying attention. Bekto’s complete conversion to Hasco’s Cooling Tornado suggests a new standard may be emerging in mouldmaking.

At Swiss Plastics Expo 2026 in Lucerne, Engel shows how inject AI and the world’s first autonomous injection-moulding cell are redefining precision, process stability and efficiency — helping Swiss plastics processors overcome skills shortages, cut costs and strengthen their global competitiveness through intelligent digitalisation.

Developed specifically for injection moulding operations, Nonnenmann’s new hose trolley streamlines maintenance, shortens setup times, and helps extend the service life of hoses and couplings.