From early design validation to high-volume production, Quickparts is expanding its manufacturing capabilities with the introduction of the high-performance plastics Durakor and Thermakor, complemented by vapour smoothing as a standard surface-finishing option.

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.

With the United Kingdom confirmed as partner country, Formnext 2026 is gaining early momentum and sharpening its focus on additive manufacturing applications in industries such as orthopedics, aviation and automotive.

Tightening PFAS regulations are accelerating the search for alternative high-performance plastics. With a newly developed PFAS-free PA66, Asahi Kasei targets low-friction, high-load applications, offering manufacturers a sustainable material solution that delivers reliable sliding performance even under demanding thermal and mechanical conditions.

Rising tungsten prices and growing raw-material constraints are forcing cutting tool manufacturers to rethink efficiency at the source. As cost pressure builds toward 2026, modular, exchangeable-head carbide tools are emerging as a strategic response — cutting material use, reducing waste, and delivering flexibility without compromising performance.

A new biological machining material aimed at small-batch production and prototyping made its debut at PCD Paris. Krill Design is previewing an 80 percent bio-based bar for turning and milling that combines dimensional stability, mechanical performance and improved sustainability, opening new possibilities for designers and manufacturers seeking circular material solutions.

Shallow cuts and smaller machines no longer have to limit milling performance. With the Double Turbo 11, Seco introduces a square shoulder insert designed to deliver reliable cutting, long tool life and high surface quality at lower depths of cut, helping manufacturers boost efficiency while keeping tooling costs under control.

Italian machine tool orders ended 2025 on a weak note, with a sharp drop in the fourth quarter exposing continued fragility in global demand and only limited relief at home. While annual order intake remained slightly positive, Ucimu warns that geopolitical uncertainty, stalled trade agreements and delayed investment incentives are weighing heavily on the industry’s outlook.

At Mach 2026 in Birmingham, Open Mind Technologies will showcase the latest innovations in its Hypermill CAD/CAM suite, highlighting how digital process chains, MES integration and new AI-supported functions are reshaping connected manufacturing.

With a 1.6 million pound investment in a new, dedicated turning facility, Viking Precision Engineers is expanding its machining capabilities and deepening its long-standing partnership with Yamazaki Mazak.