After years of delivering ultra-hard 3D-printed metals, VBN Components now introduces Vibenite 130 — a tough, high-strength alloy engineered for fatigue-resistant applications. The launch at Formnext 2025 marks a new step in combining hardness, durability and sustainable near-net-shape manufacturing.

Grinding is becoming a system technology. At Grinding Hub 2026, examples from brake disc machining, in-process metrology, CBN tools and tool supply showed how closely machine, tool, measurement technology and process knowledge now have to interact to secure precision, efficiency and process reliability.

For 50 years, HK Cosmetic Packaging has relied on Arburg’s Allrounder technology, and this long-standing collaboration has now reached a new highlight with the ceremonial handover of the 150th machine.

At Mach 2026, Solidcam UK showed how integrated CAM is expanding beyond programming efficiency alone. With advances in 5-axis machining, sliding-head applications, I-Machining, paperless production workflows and intelligent programming support, the company focused on helping manufacturers increase productivity, reduce complexity and strengthen process reliability across the shopfloor.

Electronics are moving off circuit boards and into the structure of the plastic part itself. Tactotek’s IMSE approach is driving this shift, combining design freedom with robust functionality — and prompting mould makers to rethink how tools, films, and processes are engineered for next-generation applications.

At Plast 2026 in Milan, Rodolfo Comerio will focus on how calendering lines are becoming more automated, efficient and data-driven. The company will present technologies for rubber, PVC and plastics processing, including patented systems for faster changeovers, reduced waste, improved safety and real-time production monitoring.

One of the UK’s leading technology specialists is set to launch a new deployable hybrid manufacturing system that can be set-up in just twenty-five minutes.

A new chapter in 5-axis metrology will take centre stage at Mach 2026, as LK Metrology unveils a key software and scanning milestone on its latest Altera CMM platform. Alongside faster, more connected inspection workflows, the company will also spotlight point cloud analysis, portable measurement and compact CT technology.

Ametek-owned Faro Technologies and Creaform have reorganised their metrology and reality capture activities into two new business units, separating dimensional measurement and reality capture into distinct operations

Ten years on, Formnext proves once again why it is the world’s leading stage for Additive Manufacturing: record attendance, breakthrough technologies and a strong industry push toward real-world AM production.