India’s tooling industry is moving further into the spotlight. DMI 2026 in Mumbai showed how advanced machining, automation and international collaboration are shaping the sector’s role in the country’s manufacturing ambitions.

Researchers at IFW Hannover and Open Mind have advanced demand-based coolant supply by linking coolant flow directly to material removal rates calculated in CAM planning, enabling energy-efficient machining validated in real-world trials.

High automation, deep process integration and in-house fixture expertise enable BKV Braun to manufacture complex precision parts with remarkable efficiency. The subcontractor shows how streamlined workflows and scalable EDM automation can create clear advantages in demanding applications such as medical technology.

The Lambda GT machining center by Fanum is equipped with Siemens’ fully digital Sinumerik One numerical control system. According to the company, it delivers excellent performance wherever a high level of stability and machining precision is required under all CNC machine load conditions.

As 3D CAD models with PMI become central to manufacturing, metrology teams need faster and more consistent ways to turn digital product data into measurement programs. Mitutoyo CTL’s Micat Planner addresses this challenge by automating CNC measurement programming, standardising strategies and reducing manual effort.

North Axis Engineering has wasted no time making its mark. Founded in early 2025 to serve demand for high-precision subcontract machining in North East England, the young company has combined technical expertise with targeted investment in CNC technology to expand rapidly across subsea, aerospace and automotive work.

With its new Hummingbird ‘Tool Logistics’ module, Open Mind enables manufacturers to standardize tool data, streamline logistics, and reduce downtime through seamless CAM–MES integration.

Cloud-based mould cooling simulation is gaining a further performance boost as Maya HTT integrates the Polygonica geometry engine into its Simform platform. The enhancement supports more robust mesh handling and faster thermal analysis, enabling designers and mould makers to optimise cooling layouts earlier in the injection moulding workflow.

India’s tooling industry will be back in focus when Die & Mould India Expo returns to Mumbai in April 2026. The 14th edition is set to build on strong momentum, bringing together global technology providers, machine builders and toolmakers to showcase advanced solutions across the entire die and mould value chain.

Topsolid will integrate Machine Works’ new GPU-powered CNC simulation engine, cutting stock model calculation times from hours to seconds and delivering a major productivity boost in CAM workflows.