A new report released today by MHI and Deloitte finds that 55% of supply chain leaders are increasing their supply chain technology and innovation investments with 60% saying they are planning to spend over $1 million. Nineteen percent plan to spend over $10 million.

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and its advanced CNC system, with automatic parameter database and gas control, are optimally matched. Our cnc plasma table design and structure allow for its operation under heavy conditions (2 or 3 shift operation). Plasma cutting machines, which are equipped with precision fine beam plasma generators, combine the highest cutting quality with low consumables cost. The fine-beam generators PP (Precision Plasma) ensure very fast piercing and high cutting speeds, with an unusually clean and almost perfectly square cutting edge.

One carriage accommodates two cutters, the plasma cutting head and the oxy-fuel torch. The magnetic holder for the cutter heads allows quick change over and prevents damage in case of collision. The 5-axis head helps with weld preparation, with an optional bevel cutting unit for quick and accurate welding bevels. The control system enables installation of up to 4 carriages with independent height control. An ergonomic control panel controls the machine itself as well as the power source, ventilation, suction, and filtration systems. The supporting and bearing structures are made with light-alloy materials; the high-precision guide-ways, gears and racks are manufactured in a single factory. With all this, we ensure cutting accuracy, structural rigidity, and operational stability over the machine’s long service life.

About KAAST

KAAST Machine Tools, Inc. is proud to offer one of the most diverse and extensive line-ups of machine tools in the industry. From mills and lathes to grinders and saws, and from brakes and rolls to presses and ironworkers, KAAST makes it easy to find the right machine for your application. We stand behind our machines with quick shipping of spare parts and excellent after-sales service. Need in-person training or installation? No problem! KAAST Machine Tools, Your Production Partner.

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The CERATIZIT UP2DATE catalog is now available, showcasing the latest product developments and advancements for the cutting tool industry. Designed to help customers optimize machining performance, extend tool life, and maximize production efficiency, this edition features tooling solutions tailored to meet intricate milling and micromachining operations. Included in the spring 2025 UP2DATE edition are the MaxiMill – Slot-SNHX milling cutter, the MaxiMill – Tangent milling cutter, and the WTX – Micropilot micro drill.

“Customers come to us for more effective and productive cutting tools which we deliver with support and technical expertise,” says Troy Wilt, Managing Director of CERATIZIT USA. “Applying our technical expertise in the field often leads to new and better solutions that work across multiple industry sectors.”

Groove milling made easy

The MaxiMill – Slot-SNHX is a robust side and face milling cutter system that is engineered for exceptional performance across a range of materials, including steel, cast iron, and aluminum. The innovative tool is designed to deliver soft cuts while effectively avoiding interfering contours, making it an ideal solution for diverse milling applications.

The MaxiMill – Slot-SNHX features trouble-free contours on the face side and sufficient axial freedom of movement that ensure smooth machining — even in hard-to-reach areas. Thanks to precision-ground indexable inserts, machinists can expect a flat groove base that ensures perfect surfaces from the very first cut. The system is also equipped with an internal coolant supply up to a diameter of 200 mm, which minimizes chip jamming and further boosts efficiency.

The MaxiMill – Slot-SNHX is available in three models to offer the most universal connection on the market. These slip-on milling cutters offer diameter ranges from 80mm to 200mm each of which include internal coolant supply, and multiple sized cutting widths. The screw-in milling cutter also provides an internal coolant supply on diameters of 50mm, 63mm, and 80mm and cutting widths of 6mm and 8mm. The milling cutter with cylindrical shank and internal coolant supply is available to CERATIZIT customers in diameters of 50mm, 63mm, 80mm and 100mm as well as cutting widths of 6mm and 8mm.

Better reach and pace 

The MaxiMill – Tangent is CERATIZIT’s new tangential indexable milling cutter designed for machining hard-to-reach steel or cast iron components. Engineered to deliver stable and soft-cutting machining, it provides a uniform chamfer profile over the entire length of the cutting edge for maximum stability within a single system.

The MaxiMill – Tangent has indexable inserts optimized for machining ISO P and ISO K materials. Moreover, it features a maximum infeed depth of 8 mm for the -09 insert, while the larger model goes even further to 12 mm. The MaxiMill – Tangent includes universal -M50 and -F50 chip breakers, offering enhanced cutting-edge stability due to a reduced radial clearance angle.

Furthermore, there is an integrated face-cutting edge, which offers machining benefits, including uniform material removal that results in a smoother component surface. In addition, the cutting forces are distributed more evenly and reduce the load on both the tool and the machine.

The MaxiMill – Tangent is available in three mounting styles: shell mill, screw-in cutter, and straight shank. Cutter diameters range from 25mm to 125mm. The large and stable contact surfaces in the integrated carrier inserts carrier provide additional stability and reliability. Plus, compared to radial systems, tangential clamping provides extra space for significantly more indexable inserts on the milling cutter body, thus guaranteeing maximum cutting-edge density and efficiency. Inserts can be rotated, turned, and replaced quickly and easily to prevent any drop-offs in efficiency during tool changes.

A complete micro drill system 

The WTX – Micropilot is an innovative micro drill used for spot drilling small components with intricate geometries. Working in tandem with CERATIZIT’s WTX – Micro, the pilot drill is small in stature and delivers big performance with exceptional accuracy and time-savings for micro-sized components.

The risk of micro-sized components becoming scrap is high. Several things can go wrong: drills run off, drill holes get crooked, tools break, and the workpiece itself can become damaged. With a special drill point angle of 160 degrees, the WTX – Micropilot guarantees maximum positioning accuracy and prevents wandering while drilling to achieve extreme precision within a single run. Since it is designed to co-drill with the WTX – Micro, the usual mirroring required for drilling inclined and curved surfaces with an inclination up to 50 is no longer necessary, saving time and tool changes.

Additionally, the WTX – Micropilot is coated in CERATIZIT’s innovative Dragonskin for optimum chip clearance and extended tool life. It also has spiral internal cooling channels to ensure maximum flow of cooling lubricant for improved surface finish.

About CERATIZIT USA, Inc.

Part of the CERATIZIT Group, CERATIZIT USA designs and manufactures high quality standard and custom tooling for the metalworking industry. CERATIZIT USA, LLC is a solutions and service provider for many different industry segments, including automotive, aerospace, and energy. With a highly specialized staff, expansive product portfolio and an International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) registration, CERATIZIT USA provides manufacturers with the complete application engineering, service and training support needed for maximum productivity and cost-effectiveness.

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The growing attendance at the AED Summit highlights the increasing demand for networking, education, and business development within the equipment industry. This award reinforces the event’s influence as the premier gathering for equipment distributors, manufacturers, and service providers.

“This award is a testament to Associated Equipment Distributors’ dedication to delivering a world-class event that meets the evolving needs of our industry,” said Brian P. McGuire, president & CEO of Associated Equipment Distributors. “The AED Summit is the only event where distributors, manufacturers, and service providers come together under one roof to focus on networking, education, and leadership—ensuring a strong future for the equipment industry.”

The AED Summit provides a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers and educational sessions, equipping attendees with the essential tools and knowledge needed for continued success. AED is dedicated to building on this momentum and looks forward to an even more impactful 2026 AED Summit, set to take place January 19-21, 2026, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas.

About Associated Equipment Distributors

Established in 1919, Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) is a not-for-profit international trade association based in Schaumburg, IL representing companies involved in the sale, rental, manufacturing, and support of equipment used in construction, agriculture, mining, forestry, power generation, and industrial applications. AED enhances the ongoing success and profitability of its member companies through services and information including public policy advocacy, industry education & career development, industry research and analysis, and conferences.

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TIMTOS 2025 showcased six major industry trends: precision machine tools, key components, full-scale automation and smart manufacturing, digital twin-driven integration, additive manufacturing, and expanded cross-industry applications. Innovations from Taiwan’s machinery sector were displayed across aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer industries, reinforcing Taiwan’s leadership in precision manufacturing and intelligent automation.

AI & Robotics Take Center Stage
This year’s theme, “AI & Robotics,” highlighted essential components like harmonic reducers and joint modules for humanoid robots. Leading exhibitors HIWIN, CPC, and Main Drive introduced innovative solutions. HIWIN expanded into robot-related components, CPC developed joint modules, and Main Drive launched a production line with an annual capacity of 100,000 harmonic reducers. Taiwanese companies are now positioned as key players in the humanoid robot supply chain, with applications in healthcare, hospitality, and service industries.

Global Industry Leaders Praise TIMTOS 2025
Industry leaders, including Fair Friend Group (FFG), Tongtai, Quaser, Kao Ming, YCM, and SOCO, along with global controller manufacturers Siemens, Heidenhain, FANUC, and Mitsubishi, commended TIMTOS 2025’s success. Heidenhain and Mitsubishi Taiwan showcased Digital Twin technology, improving machining efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness while aligning with smart manufacturing and sustainability goals.

Despite the digital era, in-person interactions remain crucial. FFG reported over 100 orders spanning automotive, aerospace, semiconductors, rail transport, and energy. Quaser secured NT$1 billion in orders for hydrogen energy and medical devices, while Tongtai entered the semiconductor market with ultrasonic machining and additive manufacturing. These advancements reinforce Taiwan’s role as a key supplier for aerospace, semiconductors, EVs, medical, and green energy industries.

Successful Procurement Matchmaking
TAITRA’s procurement matchmaking event facilitated 315 sessions between 75 international buyers from 22 countries and 102 exhibitors. Buyers came from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, Poland, Vietnam, India, Israel, and Ukraine. A specialized networking event for the cutting tool sector introduced buyers from 14 countries, including the U.S., Germany, Mexico, and India. Exhibitors like MEGA Machine reported a 70% order placement rate, with instant orders from Bulgaria and the Middle East.

Exciting Events and Future Outlook
TIMTOS 2025 featured engaging forums, including the TIMTOS Keynote, where THK Chairman & CEO Akihiro Teramachi emphasized AI-driven automation and talent development. Techman Robot’s CEO, Haw Chen, introduced Taiwan’s only AI-driven collaborative robot, demonstrating AI’s transformative potential in smart manufacturing.

For the first time, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion and Taiwan Patent Go Pavilion debuted, showcasing Taiwan’s innovation in smart machinery and cross-industry applications. These pavilions attracted significant interest from international buyers, further enhancing Taiwan’s global reputation.

TIMTOS will return in March 2027. Stay updated via www.timtos.com.tw and our social media pages.

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The Chip Conveyor Kit seamlessly slots into the flood coolant tank of the 1500MX, providing a hands-free chip removal system. Its programmable capabilities, managed via Tormach’s free and open source PathPilot^® control software, allow users to activate the conveyor with a manual button or through m-codes for timed operations. This ensures coolant drains back into the tank before chip removal for optimal performance and minimal waste.

“Chip management is often an overlooked aspect of CNC machining, but it plays a critical role in maintaining efficiency,” said Tom Zelickman, product manager at Tormach. “With the Chip Conveyor Kit, we’re offering our customers a hassle-free way to reduce cleanup time and keep their 1500MX running smoothly.”

The Chip Conveyor Kit offers several key benefits that enhance the efficiency and convenience of the 1500MX. By automatically removing chips, it prevents buildup in filter baskets to ensure ideal coolant flow and reduce maintenance tasks. The system is designed to run on standard 220V household power, making it easy to integrate into a wide range of setups without requiring special electrical configurations.

Additionally, the kit’s programmable functionality allows users to set precise run durations to enable efficient separation of coolant from chips before disposal. This tailored approach to chip management not only reduces waste but also streamlines workflows and allows operators to focus on production rather than clean up.

“Machinists know clean machines lead to better performance, smoother workflows and maximum productivity,” added Zelickman. “The Chip Conveyor Kit takes the fuss out of chip removal, keeping machines focused on production instead of downtime for cleaning out chip enclosures or overflowing baskets.”

The 1500MX, introduced in April 2024, is Tormach’s most powerful and precise machine to date. Engineered with an epoxy granite frame for superior vibration damping, a 4HP (up to 6HP) BT30 spindle and servo motors with 23-bit encoders, it delivers professional-grade machining capabilities at an accessible price point. The addition of the Chip Conveyor Kit further enhances its usability for both commercial and garage-based machinists.

About Tormach

Tormach is a 100% employee-owned US-based manufacturer of CNC machines and automation tools that are capable, affordable, and easy-to-use. Our full line runs on single-phase power and includes our free and open-source control software called PathPilot^®. And unlike others in the industry, Tormach customers have true ownership of their machines with no service contracts or software lockouts.  Tormach machines are engineered and supported in the USA.

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Although digitalization offers enormous opportunities, many companies are still hesitant to take the step towards Industry 4.0. High investment costs, a lack of expertise and uncertainties regarding implementation often stand in the way. Yet digitalization not only improves efficiency and product quality, but also makes a decisive contribution to achieving sustainable goals – for example by conserving resources and increasing energy efficiency. At the same time, it makes businesses more resilient by making processes more flexible and production systems more resilient to disruptions.

Sustainability and resilience were therefore already key topics at the “ICNAP Summer Meeting 2024”, where researchers and industry partners worked together to develop practical approaches focusing on “Intelligent Sensing and Communication” and “Data-Driven Sustainability”. For the first time, the results of these workshops have been directly incorporated into this report.

Artificial intelligence – plug-and-produce for rapid deployment

The use of AI in manufacturing is a particular focus of the report. AI offers a wide range of opportunities for process optimization, from quality assurance to automation. The report presents a plug-and-produce approach that enables AI to be quickly and easily integrated into existing production systems. This is supported by a technical reference architecture and an organizational framework to guide companies.

Another study is dedicated to generative AI and its potential to transform business processes and production workflows. The interactive platform “AI Everywhere”, which was developed as part of the study, offers ICNAP partners a practical overview of tools, use cases and best practices in which generative AI is used. This enables companies to identify specific potential without having to conduct extensive basic research.

Trust is good, control is better – zero-trust architectures to prevent cyber attacks

As digitalization increases, so do the demands on IT security. New EU directives such as the Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2), the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the EU Machinery Regulation are making the protection of production systems a priority for companies. At the same time, the threat of cybercrime is growing.

For this reason, this topic was also explored in a study: the article “Zero trust architectures for networked industrial processes” shows how companies can protect their production systems from increasing cybersecurity risks by relying on the “zero trust” model. This model continuously verifies every access and thus significantly increases the level of security.

From digital twin to dark factory – the future of fully automated production

The Digital Twin Demonstrator is another result of the 2024 research presented in the report. Using battery cell modules as an example, it demonstrates how deep learning can be used to automatically control the quality of welds. This is a practical example of how companies can use connected modeling to make their production processes more efficient and error-free.

Another study looks at the next step toward full automation of a production facility, bringing the vision of a “dark factory” – a fully autonomous, self-controlling production facility, is becoming more tangible. By using multidimensional digital twins and advanced analysis tools, companies can evaluate their production facilities and develop them further in a targeted manner. The report offers concrete tools for analyzing the status quo and identifying key technologies for the production facility of the future.

ICNAP – a networked innovation platform for the digital industry

The International Center for Networked Adaptive Production (ICNAP) combines the expertise of the three Aachen-based Fraunhofer Institutes for Production Technology IPT, for Laser Technology ILT and for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME as well as leading experts from industry and science. ICNAP was founded as an open research platform and industrial test environment to develop new approaches to the digitalization of production and test them in practice.

ICNAP places particular emphasis on knowledge transfer and exchange with partners from industry. The platform is open to new partnerships and regularly offers free events to provide direct insights into the work of the community and the research of the participating Fraunhofer Institutes.

The annual meeting in December 2024 was used by the members of the ICNAP community to vote on the five new studies for the following year. The newly selected topics for 2025 include

• Integration of Sensor Technology in Brownfield Applications
• Approval of AI Systems for Quality Control – Fulfilling Regulatory and Stakeholder Requirements
• Production Optimization: Concept for Holistic Optimization of Production
• A Digital Process Twin for Manufacturing: Unlocking New Optimization Potentials
• Manufacturing “Secured by Design”: A Zero-Trust Approach to Industrial Product Development

The study report for the year 2025 will be presented at this year’s annual meeting on December 9, 2025.

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Easy to use and reliable 

Octomill 06 self-centering inserts allow operators to quickly and securely position inserts with high repeatability. The use of a long insert screw enables indexing of an insert without having to remove the screw from the cutter body. The cutter-insert interface design disconnects cutting edges from support surfaces and mimics the design of a double-sided insert while keeping the positive setting approach of a single-sided solution.

“This separation of cutting edges and support surfaces keeps worn portions of the insert from damaging or negatively impacting the performance of unused edges,” said Seco Product Manager Tobias Jakobi. “Furthermore, the self-centering feature prevents the occurrence of incorrectly positioned inserts that can cause instability, edge and tool breakage, costly work interruptions and the need for rework.”

The Octomill 06 is a top choice for applications featuring unstable setups or thin-walled parts. Featuring a right-handed design with a straight cutting edge, Octomill 06 incorporates a high helix angle of +16° to reduce radial and axial forces and enable high-quality production. The cutter achieves smoother entry and exit and reduces back cutting effects. Additionally, Octomill 06 provides consistent wear along the entire cutting edge.

Flexibility across a wide range of applications 

The multi-insert pocket design of Octomill 06 accommodates face milling, round and moderate high feed inserts. This allows a single cutter body to effectively perform a variety of applications, including face milling, ramping, helical interpolation and profiling. A diverse range of insert grades and geometries provides optimal performance in materials spanning the P, M, K, N, S and H Seco Materials Groups.

About Seco

With its origins in Fagersta, Sweden and present in more than 75 countries, Seco is a leading global provider of metal cutting solutions for indexable milling, solid milling, turning, holemaking, threading and tooling systems. For nearly 100 years, Seco has driven excellence throughout the entire manufacturing journey, ensuring high-precision machining and high-quality output.

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Pyroshield Syn Kiln Lubricant boasts high film strength, enabling it to withstand high-load and heavy-shock applications even at elevated temperatures. Its impressive temperature reduction capability of 5-15% improves gear efficiency and extends equipment life, while the 95-lb Timken OK load rating ensures reliable performance under extreme pressure conditions. The lead-free composition allows for disposal like standard petroleum oils without special handling, making it an environmentally responsible choice for industries seeking sustainable solutions.

The lubricant is suitable for versatile application methods, permitting manual or automatic spray system application without equipment shutdown. Users can expect a significant 25-50% reduction in lubricant consumption, leading to lower operational costs and reduced maintenance requirements. The proprietary Almasol additive offers remarkable temperature resistance up to 1,900°F, maintaining protection even in extreme heat conditions, while meeting multiple industry standards including ANSI/AGMA 9005-EO2 and major manufacturer requirements.

With a high viscosity index of 208, Pyroshield Syn Kiln Lubricant maintains consistency across wide temperature ranges, providing superior rust and corrosion protection as evidenced by passing both freshwater and seawater rust tests. The lubricant’s high Four-Ball EP Weld Point of 400 kgf demonstrates superior extreme pressure performance and wear protection, while its FZG Scuffing test rating greater than 12 proves exceptional resistance to gear scuffing under heavy loads.

Further enhancing its performance, Pyroshield Syn Kiln Lubricant achieves a Copper Corrosion rating of 1b, providing excellent protection against copper corrosion. Its Four-Ball EP Load Wear Index of 97.1 kgf and FZG Wear test results showing less than 2 mg/kWh weight loss demonstrate exceptional wear protection under extreme pressure and heavy load conditions. Available in quarter drums and drums to accommodate different volume needs, this lubricant’s black color with graphite content allows for visual confirmation of proper application and coverage.

About Lubrication Engineers

Founded in 1951, Lubrication Engineers, Inc. has grown from a visionary lubricant company to a global leader in lubrication reliability solutions. With a commitment to quality and innovation, the company develops proprietary formulas and premium lubricants that enhance machinery performance and reduce equipment wear. Operating a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Wichita, Kan., and with a network spanning across the United States and more 60 countries, Lubrication Engineers provides tailored solutions and exceptional service to businesses worldwide, helping them optimize equipment performance and achieve long-term operational success.

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