http://www.AdsaleCMJ.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/Listing.aspxCMJ Machine - Daily Market NewsFour US associations will jointly host the second edition of The MFG Meeting (Manufacturing for Growth) from March 8-11, in Orlando, Florida, the US.These four associations are the AMT (the Association for Manufacturing Technology), AMTDA (the American Machine Tool Distributors' Association), NTMA (the National Tooling and Machining Association) and PMA (the Precision Metalforming Association). Collectively representing a cross-section of the industry, they will combine their annual meetings into The MFG Meeting to pursue the common goal of building sustained US economic growth by strengthening the country's manufacturing sector.Together, the four associations comprise more than 4,000 small- and medium-sized manufacturers from all 50 US states that provide products for the aerospace, automotive, construction, energy, medical and many other industries in the country and abroad. It is said that by sharing resources, The MFG Meeting provides an opportunity for more than 700 top manufacturing executives to exchange best practices as the industry seeks to reassert and expand its US economic footprint.A slate of speakers will be featured at the second edition of The MFG Meeting. They range from a keynote from Super Bowl winning coach and NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs, to sessions that cover economics, marketing, innovation and government relations.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120559/Article.aspxAs a member of the group of "climate protection companies" in Germany, the Harting Technology Group attended the launch event of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce's theme "Energy and Raw Materials" event lately held in in Berlin.Dr Frank Brode, Management Board Member for New Technologies at Harting, and representatives of the other member companies, had the opportunity to speak to Dr Philipp Rösler, the German Federal Minister of Economics and Technology, and Hans Heinrich Driftmann, President of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, at the event.In his opening speech, Dr Rösler set out the federal government's concept for a change in energy policy which is based on the key areas of extension of the energy network, construction of new power plants, expansion of renewable energies, an increase in energy efficiency and a strengthening of research capabilities.Dr Brode commented, "This concept has a European dimension and requires the support of society as a whole. In this respect, Harting is well positioned thanks to its sustainable energy concept and research on new technologies to replace vital raw materials and it will make a significant contribution.""Climate protection companies" are awarded for their outstanding performance in terms of operational energy efficiency by the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce under the climate protection, energy efficiency and innovation partnership with the Federal Environment Ministry, its climate protection initiative and the Federal Ministry of Economics.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120558/Article.aspxAccording to news posted on the blog on its website, Spanish machine automation and control products manufacturer Fagor Automation has set a target to grow its sales by 10% in order to increase its global market share.For this plan to succeed, it is said that the company's new CNC families and its developments in CNC and absolute encoders will play an important role. It is also key that China recovers the vigor it lost in the last months of 2011.According to the blog news, these expectations are based on the industrial feelings that have been detected in countries like Germany, France, Italy and the US, where the aviation and defense industries are said to be very active. It is also hoped that the control of inflation in China that has made progress at the end of 2011 will increase the country's dynamism.Fagor Automation is said to have established a series of actions to reinforce its international network with more technical and sales personnel and the opening of new offices, giving priorities on the Korean, Italian, German and American markets, where the Spanish company has already had six branch offices.The company has also established a plan for investment in special equipment to increase the traceability of their SMD components by screen printing, and advanced technical equipment, Halt Hass-Hasa to analyze the robustness of complete electronic systems, the blog news reveals.Also, Fagor Automation will complete the development of a program (Etorgai) to diversify its business toward the electric vehicle. Fagor Ederlan, Cegasa, and Mondragon Ecenarro Automotive and Lotus Engineering are working on this project. They are now running successful tests on the first prototypes.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120525/Article.aspxAccording to statistics from China Machinery Industry Federation (CMIF), in 2011, the Chinese machine tool industry saw slowed year-on-year growth.As reported, the Chinese machine tool industry achieved a gross output value of industry of RMB743.761 billion in 2011, an increase of 32.5% year on year, while the sales value of industry was RMB723.119 billion, up by 31.34% compared with the previous year. The sales rate was 97.22%.It is worth noting that the sales rates of different sub-sectors under the machine tool industry saw slowed growth, at different rates, in 2011. Particularly, the sales rate of the other metal processing machinery manufacturing industry registered the largest drop in growth rate, falling by 19.41 percentage points year on year.It is also reported that the total value of export products of the machine tool industry was RMB41.998 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 18.21%, which is, however, 13.44 percentage points lower from a year ago.By sub-sector, while the metal forming machine manufacturing industry and the other metal processing machine manufacturing industry rose by 44.79% and 47.42% in output value respectively, other sub-sectors registered sharp declines. Particularly, the machine tool accessories industry dropped by the largest rate, from 53.86% in 2010 to -14.32% in 2011, representing a decrease of 68.18 percentage points year on year.As far as the output volume of the seven products categorized under the machine tools industry is concerned, in December 2011, NC metal forming machines (NC forging equipment) and metal cutting tools showed slight increases year on year. For the full year 2011, the output volumes of these two categories of products rose by 12.99% and 29.75% year on year respectively, while that of others recorded a drop in growth rate. Particularly, the output volume of numerical control systems grew at a rate that is 113.12 percentage points slower than the previous year.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120524/Article.aspxThe US-headquartered Sodick, Inc, a sales office of Japanese EDM manufacturer Sodick Co Ltd, announces that it has named Rich Sato Sales Coordinator for Japanese Accounts.According to Sodick, Mr Sato has over 15 years of experience in similar positions and holds a Bachelor's degree in management. He will be responsible for supporting Sodick's Japanese account customer base for the entire Sodick product range in the US.Mr Sato will work out of the Sodick Inc's headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois, and will report to Yuji Akutsu, Executive Vice President.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120487/Article.aspxAccording to SMS Meer GmbH, Deutsche Edelstahlwerke (DEW) has placed an order with SMS Meer for the expansion of the 3-roll PSM (Precision Sizing Mill) at its Siegen-Geisweid, Germany, plant to include an automatic size control system with cross-section measuring module.SMS Meer says the PSM forms part of the rolling mill for special steels which are used, for example, in the automotive industry. A new laser precision measuring device for cross-section measurement is to be installed downline of the PSM. The automation system is to be expanded to include a highly dynamic monitor control module. Even in the event of fluctuations in the ingoing product, the new system minimizes tolerance deviations during the rolling process. With this expansion, DEW will be able to increase the efficiency of the PSM, and hence also the quality of the bars produced, SMS Meer claims."The aim is to consistently further develop the potential of single-pass adjustment under rolling force and to learn more about the behavior of the material during the rolling of these highly sophisticated products. Even today, we can reliably achieve tolerances of 1/8 DIN EN 10060. Thanks to this control system, it will be possible to perform additional fine optimization of the final dimension tolerances," says Jens Eisbach, Rolling Mill Manager of the bar mill in Siegen-Geisweid.SMS Meer supplied the world's first 3-roll block with hydraulic adjustment under load to DEW in 2006. The PSM directly replaced two 3-roll blocks at DEW which had been in operation since 1979.The project is said to be implemented in spring 2012.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120486/Article.aspxAccording to news posted on AFM (the Spanish Machine Tool Manufacturers' Association) website, IZAR Cutting Tools SAL, a Spain-headquartered cutting tool manufacturer having been established for more than 100 years, had a very positive performance in 2011, with 10% increase in the turnover year on year.This confirmed the path embarked on in 2010, said the company, attributing the success to its export performance, as its presence in around 80 markets worldwide enables it to diversify sales. IZAR revealed that exports now make up over 60% of its total sales, allowing the company to weather the tough times for Spain's economy and their consequences on the cutting tool market.The cutting tool company also announced that it is set to invest 1.5 million euros in 2012 to strengthen the "Made in Spain" concept. IZAR's goal for 2012 is for its turnover to pass the 20 million euro mark once again, which it only narrowly fell short of in 2011. And particularly, the company wishes to continue its growth in the milling tools area.IZAR emphasized that it will continue on the path of growth by taking a series of commercial measures, including increasing its offer of new products for both the industrial and professional markets, and improving its service and extending its opening hours to 7pm, among other aspects. It will also continue to organize customer and user visits and training at its latest-generation facilities in Boroa-Amorebieta.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120444/Article.aspxUCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE - Italian Machine Tools, Robots and Automation Manufacturers' Association reports that in the fourth quarter of 2011, the index of machine tool orders for the Italian manufacturers, marks a fall of 12.4% in comparison to the same period of the previous year, for an absolute value of 95.1.This figure is however among the highest recorded in the last three years, remarks UCIMU, adding that despite the slowdown in the end of the year, the full year 2011 average index of orders for the Italian manufacturers registered an increase of 12.8% compared to 2010, for an absolute value of 93, the highest recorded in the last three year period.UCIMU emphasizes that the result of this last survey, after seven consecutive quarters recording increases, is therefore attributable to the fact that it has been compared to a particularly positive period, as confirmed by the absolute index of the fourth quarter of 2010 that reached 108.6.On an annual base, the index of the orders collected by the manufacturers domestically marks a fall of 11.9%, for an absolute value of 55.2. On the other hand, the index of foreign orders recorded an increase of 20.9% year on year, for an absolute value of 116.3.With reference to the foreign markets, according to the last survey carried out by UCIMU Studies Department on the base of ISTAT data, in the period January-October 2011, the main outlet markets for Italian supply of machine tools were: China (+11.5% compared to the first 10 months of 2010), Germany (+55.9%), the US (+104%), Brazil (+60.2%), France (+20.1%), India (+13.5%), Russia (+16.3%), Turkey (+59.2%), Poland (+42.3%), and Spain (16.3%).Giancarlo Losma, President of UCIMU, commented that the slowdown recorded in this last quarter does not anticipate a new period of difficulty. "Currently there are no elements demonstrating an inversion in trend and therefore the start of a new negative cycle for the Italian machine tools, robots and automation industry. On the contrary a fact on all shows the level of efficiency that characterizes the industries of the sector: the index of production capacity that, in the fourth quarter of the year, reached 80%," said Mr Losma.In the meantime, he expressed his concern about the widening discrepancy between the domestic and foreign users, and called for the government authorities, according to the drawn development program, to include concrete measures to support the companies that choose innovation.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120443/Article.aspxThe Tornos Group posted consolidated gross sales revenue of CHF271.1 million in 2011, a 69.3% rise on the previous year (CHF160.1 million). New orders totaled CHF276.3 million, an increase of 28.7% compared with 2010 (CHF214.7 million).According to the Swiss machine-tool manufacturer, this significant improvement is due to a healthy inflow of new orders from all the market segments targeted by the group and to Tornos' ability to respond immediately to the strong upturn in demand. "The favorable business climate has enabled the Group to benefit from customers' investments in capacity renewal and expansion. This was particularly true of the medical, watchmaking and automotive industries," said Tornos.Tornos further said that while the first half of the year was characterized by strong demand from Switzerland and southern Europe in particular, the second half witnessed a certain slowing of momentum in these countries. However, this momentum was taken up by the vigorous level of activity in northern Europe and Asia. Asian customers, particularly those in China and Taiwan, are increasingly discovering the advantages of multi-spindle technology and have started to order machines of this type for improving the productivity, reliability and stability of production processes in their factories, said the company.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120408/Article.aspxSwedish bearings and seals manufacturer SKF Group has lately released its year-end report 2011. According the report, in the full year 2011, the group's net sales were SEK66,216 million, up by 8.5% compared with 2010. Operating profit was SEK9,612 million, compared with SEK8,452 million in the previous year. And operating margin rose from 13.8% to 14.5%. Profit before taxes were SEK8,932 million, up from SEK7,549 million, and net profit was SEK6,224 million, up from SEK5,296 million.For the fourth quarter alone, net sales of the group were SEK16,257 million, an increase of 5.5% compared with SEK15,409 million in 2010. However, operating profit dropped to SEK2,006 million from SEK2,202 million, and operating margin fell to 12.3% from 14.3%. Profit before taxes went down to SEK1,823 million from SEK2,048 million, and net profit decreased to SEK1,205 million from SEK1,350 million."The SKF Group had a very strong performance in 2011 with record sales, operating profit and operating margin," commented Tom Johnstone, President and CEO. "In the fourth quarter overall demand softened as expected but with a somewhat better demand in USA and weaker in Asia. As planned we ran our production lower than sales to reduce inventories and this had the expected impact on our results."Mr Johnstone said that while the integration of Lincoln is going according to plan, in 2011 SKF launched a number of new products, gained significant business and opened a new bearing factory in China. "Spending on research and development increased significantly as planned, and our new Global Technical Centre in India was opened," he added.Talking about the first quarter of 2012, Mr Johnstone said, "We still see uncertainty in demand in Europe and in our automotive business. Demand for the group in total is expected to be lower than in the first quarter last year and similar to the fourth quarter." He stressed that the company will continue to invest in the faster growing regions and markets.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120407/Article.aspxAt the upcoming GrindTec 2012, an international specialized trade fair for grinding technology held from March 14 to 17 in Augsburg, Germany, the Schleifring Group will be exhibiting 16 machines in all, including its Orbit, CT450, S22, S41, Helitronic Vision, Helitronic Micro, Helitronic Diamond, Helicheck Pro, Helicheck Plus, Heliset Uno, Compact Line, Laser Line, Insert Line and so on.The new complete surface and profile grinding machine series Blohm Orbit will be on shown at that time. With 2 control options, the series' grinding ranges are from 500x200mm up to 800x400mm and there is a new, patented cross slide concept using hydrodynamic guideway in the X-axis. Schleifring says this combination ensures a particularly even grinding pattern.The new tool grinding machine Helitronic Vision Long by Walter Maschinenbau GmbH will make its world premiere at the show. As introduced, due to changes in the kinematics by keeping the same machine size, the new machine can process tools of 700mm total lengths instead of the usual 300mm. To make the measurement of these long tools possible, Walter added a 700mm option to the Walter measuring machines Helicheck Pro and Plus and it will present these options as well.Besides the products presentation, Schleifring will host a press conference on the first day of the exhibition.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120367/Article.aspxCanada-headquartered portable 3D optical measurement technology supplier Creaform announced recently that BMW Rosslyn in Pretoria, South Africa has integrated a HandyPROBE arm-free and portable probing system to its manufacturing process and plant. To be more specific, the system was installed at the Quality Control Department of BMW Rosslyn's BMW 3 series product site. And according to Creaform, Wenzel Metromec, a Swiss inspection software company, has developed an interface between the HandyPROBE and its Metrosoft CM inspection software. This new gateway allows BMW to maintain its existing Metrosoft CM inspection programs and keep on using known inspection functionalities while using Creaform's TRUaccuracy technology, which ensures highly-accurate measurements regardless of the surrounding environment or vibrations, to improve their inspection process output, Creaform states."The fact that BMW could benefit from the HandyPROBE increased accuracy, faster measurement process and automatic alignment feature without the hassle of having its entire crew trained on new software was a key selling point," points out Jean-François Larue, HandyPROBE product director.Marcel Lenherr, General Manager of Metromec, explains: "Metrosoft CM is a very sophisticated metrology software with a large functional width and depth. For an automotive manufacturer like BMW, it is crucial to be able to use different brands and types of measuring devices with it. Thus, Creaform's HandyPROBE is a great addition to line-up of technologies supported by Metrosoft CM."http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120366/Article.aspxUK CAD/CAM software developer Delcam has launched the 2012 R2 release of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM system. The new version includes important new strategies for roughing and turn-mill operations, alongside a range of more general enhancements to allow faster toolpath generation.According to Delcam, the main addition to FeatureCAM 2012 R2 is a series of new strategies for 2.5D roughing. These include a continuous spiral option to minimize wear on the cutter and machine tool, high-speed roughing options, including trochoidal machining and Delcam's patented Race Line Machining, and "tear-drop" moves to clear corners more smoothly. In addition, more styles of leads and links can now be used to give greater overall efficiency for the toolpaths.Stepovers for 2.5D mill roughing can now be set as large as the tool diameter itself, says Delcam. Previously, stepovers were limited to 50% of the tool diameter and, if this limit was exceeded, the toolpath would leave stands. The new algorithm supports larger stepovers by providing extra moves automatically to clean up those stands.Other milling improvements include an option to add an extra profile pass exactly at the base of flat pockets, the ability to use face-milling tools with chamfered edges to machine chamfers as well as faces and so minimize the number of tools needed, a choice of right- or left-handed thread-milling tools resulting in either climb or conventional machining of the thread, and the ability to reduce calculation times by saving boundaries as curves if they will be needed for subsequent calculations.Roughing has also been improved for users of turning equipment that can operate with live tooling. A new option allows cutting with a live milling tool, while the workpiece is rotating in the turning spindle. This approach avoids the issues associated with interrupted cutting and ensures regular chip breakage, so removing any chance of wrap-around by the swarf.Turn-mill programming has been improved with the addition of more flexible five-axis positioning. For example, any amount of negative b-axis movement available can be used, so avoiding extending the y limit too far back into the machine. Switching the positioning angles in this way makes editing easier to keep the machine within its travel limits.Another turn-mill improvement is support for cylindrical interpolation, which allows toolpaths to be created with NC code for a plane and then wrapped around a cylinder. This approach, which can also be used for four-axis milling, allows cutter compensation to be applied when calculating the toolpath and gives smaller NC code files.All FeatureCAM users will benefit from improvements to the simulation module, Delcam states. In particular, they will see much faster results through the use of multiple cores for these calculations. In addition, the ability has been included to save a position during the simulation, for example, while toolpaths are being edited, and then to run the simulation from that position rather than from the start.Other general enhancements include direct cutting and pasting of models between FeatureCAM and Delcam's PowerSHAPE design and data repair software, and the ability to create machining configurations on a network as well as on an individual computer, so saving time and encouraging consistent results from different users.FeatureCAM was the world's first feature-based programming software when it was launched in 1995.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120327/Article.aspxA Sandviken, Sweden based engineering group in tooling, materials technology, mining and construction, Sandvik is celebrating its 150th anniversary today (January 31).Sandvik says an anniversary flag will be hoisted and a spectacular fireworks display arranged in Sandviken today. An anniversary issue of the group's magazine Meet Sandvik has been published in 14 languages and a book presenting the company's development will be released in March. In addition, various events will also be arranged by all of Sandvik's companies worldwide during the anniversary year.Since its establishment by Göran Fredrik Göransson 150 years ago, Sandvik has operated and evolved by continuously being innovative and identifying new opportunities in the markets and through various shifts in technology.Sandvik was first in the world to use the Bessemer process. It now employs 50,000 employees across the globe.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120326/Article.aspxAccording to Frost & Sullivan, the lightweight automotive material market earned revenues of US$38 billion in 2010 and this figure will reach US$95.34 billion in 2017, driven by the need to conform to environmental regulations.As far as lightweight automotive metals are concerned, the 2010 market was US$20,698.1 million by revenue and 10.3 million tons by volume. The market intelligence company projects the automotive metal market to grow to US$59,805.6 million in 2017 at a CAGR of 16.4%. Aluminum remains at the forefront of automotive metals usage, both in terms of value and volume.Frost & Sullivan also suggests that exterior and Body-In-White (BIW) components are likely to witness more of metal-metal substitution. Aluminum remains the leading material of choice for exterior body panels, whereas for BIW structures, Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) is expected to replace lower grade steels.Coming to automotive plastics, the market was US$17,305.7 million by revenue and 5.5 million tons by volume in 2010, and it is predicted to grow to US$35,536.2 million in 2017 at a CAGR of 10.8%. Polypropylene remains at the forefront of automotive plastics usage, both in terms of value and volume, Frost & Sullivan forecasts.Interior and under-the-hood components are likely to witness more of plastics-plastics substitution, the company suggests. The majority of the plastics are targeting metal replacement given on-going trend of weight reduction of vehicles.Frost & Sullivan remarks that among all lightweight materials, aluminum leads in volume and revenue, while polymers are finding an increasing number of takers, mainly due to the low cost-to-performance ratio depending upon part size, shape and complexity. The adoption rate of plastics will be low in structural parts, which require robust impact resistance properties, the company adds.Frost & Sullivan says governments across the world have been passing laws mandating reductions in fuel consumption and/or carbon emissions. These laws have resulted in the lowering of vehicles' weight through the replacement of heavy materials in certain systems with lighter alternatives, as the weight of the automobile has a direct bearing on its fuel efficiency."These laws also challenge OEMs to find innovative solutions to comply with them and still stay profitable," says Sandeepan Mondal, Senior Research Analyst, Frost & Sullivan.As an example, the end-of-life directive in Europe compels automakers to minimize the waste created when a vehicle reaches the end of its useful life. On one hand, it encourages the incorporation of recyclable lightweight materials in passenger vehicles; on the other hand, it hinders the market growth of thermosets and carbon composites.While lightweight materials decrease the overall weight and emissions, they hike the costs considerably at the same time. The business of both OEMs and tier-I suppliers took a hit during the economic downturn and in such unfavorable economic conditions, they will unlikely be enthusiastic about shifting from a metal-based assembly to alternative materials, the report suggests.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120286/Article.aspxKennametal Inc announced on January 17 that it has signed a definitive purchase agreement with the UK-based Deloro Stellite Group from Duke Street Capital for approximately 277 million euros.Deloro Stellite is a global manufacturer and provider of alloy-based critical wear solutions for extreme environments involving high temperature, corrosion and abrasion. With annual sales of approximately 220 million euros, the company employs approximately 1,300 people across seven primary operating facilities globally, including locations in the US, Canada, Germany, Italy, India and China.Kennametal says Deloro Stellite delivers value-added, tailored wear solutions for customers in Kennametal's current end markets of oil/gas, power generation, transportation, and aerospace, through proprietary metal alloys and materials expertise as well as specialized engineering design and fabrication capabilities."Deloro Stellite has a long-standing history of providing exceptional value to customers in demanding environments and we are pleased they have agreed to join the Kennametal team," commented Carlos Cardoso, Kennametal Chairman, President and CEO. "The addition of this world-class surface technology and materials science expertise will enhance the range of productivity solutions provided to our customers in extreme wear environments."The acquisition remains subject to customary regulatory approval and negotiated conditions of closing, but Kennametal expects it will close in 60 to 90 days.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120285/Article.aspxRobotic Industries Association (RIA), a trade group in North America organized specifically to serve the robotics industry, will host a free webinar on Tuesday, February 7 from 12 noon to 1pm (North American Eastern Standard Time) to introduce a new robot safety standard that is in the pipeline from RIA.RIA says manufacturers have already started producing robots that are compliant with the new standard, so users and integrators now must consider guidelines that are harmonized with ISO. It explains that the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) under the US Department of Labor has referred to the ANSI/RIA R15.06-1999 Robot Safety Standard for more than a decade, but as times change, so does the standard.This webinar will be supported by Siemens Industry, Inc. Online registration is now available on Robotics Online.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120272/Article.aspxIndustrial automation technology provider Rockwell Automation Inc announces the launch of two new Allen-Bradley power monitors, the PowerMonitor W250 and 500, designed to provide manufacturers with scalable, cost-effective insight into how, when and where energy is being used throughout the production process."Many manufacturers are looking to gain deeper insight and data granularity of their industrial energy consumption," explains Phillip Bush, power and energy management product manager, Rockwell Automation. "These two new power monitors allow our customers to drill down beneath facility or process-level monitoring to collect data from specific energy-intensive applications without significant cost and effort."According to Rockwell Automation, both of the power monitors feature wireless capabilities and improved energy-data display to simplify energy-consumption tracking. Particularly, the PowerMonitor W250 offers a self-generating wireless communications platform, making it suitable for applications located in areas where hard-wired networking is cost prohibitive.Rockwell Automation adds that the PowerMonitor W250 is capable of measuring energy consumption at multiple metering locations, including remote or confined spaces such as ceilings, conveyor belts or outdoors. Completely cable-free, the self-generating wireless network transmits energy consumption information directly to Rockwell Software RSEnergyMetrix software for reduced networking costs and easier data collection. Simplified networking for additional monitors allows for improved system modularity and flexibility, according to Rockwell Automation.As for the PowerMonitor 500 for smaller consumption and demand-monitoring applications, an on-device LCD display is featured in a small, panel-mounted footprint, allowing operators to access real-time energy demand and consumption data at the machine or process level without requiring any additional components. It also features Modbus TCP and EtherNet/IP communication options and is fully integrated with RSEnergyMetrix software. Energy consumption data can be loaded directly to Web-based dashboards to provide a cost-effective tool for implementing and verifying energy-saving initiatives, Rockwell Automation introduces.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120266/Article.aspxGerman metalforming machine manufacturer Schuler AG reports record figures in its fiscal year 2010/11 ending September 30, 2011.According to its latest press release, the SDax-listed company recorded 1.32 billion euros worth of new orders in its fiscal year 2010/11, a year-on-year increase of 61.2%, while sales rose by 47.4% to 958.5 million euros compared with the previous fiscal year.As for the first quarter of its current fiscal year 2011/12, Schuler expects to post new orders of around 390 million euros. It also says that orders were higher than in the three preceding quarters, and sales in the first three months reached approximately 276 million euros, compared with 178 million euros in the previous year."Business continues to run very smoothly for Schuler, we've been able to seamlessly continue our past record year," states Schuler CEO Stefan Klebert. At the same time, he confirms the company's guidance for its current fiscal year 2011/12, with sales expected to increase to at least 1.1 billion euros."The new order level remains strong and our order backlog of over one billion euros provides a great buffer. Our task now is to work through these orders," adds Mr Klebert.Schuler also says that it sees great potential in the growing markets of Asia, in the expansion of its existing business fields and in its new product developments, expecting to launch at least 10 new products this year. Moreover, it is planning its largest investment program of the past 10 years with capital expenditures of around 50 million euros, for example in new machinery and information technology.Under this program, around one third of total investments are earmarked for the expansion of activities in China. "We expect that Asia will continue to drive growth in our most important sales market, the automotive industry. We already generate one third of our total sales in this region," explains Mr Klebert.According to Schuler, it is therefore expanding its existing assembly capacities in the North Chinese city of Dalian and will be processing large machine parts there in future. At its Shanghai facility, the company aims to strengthen its sales, purchasing and engineering divisions and will expand its after-sales service in different provinces.Schuler remarks that its Service division, which accounts for almost a quarter of total sales, is also a strong growth area. The company expanded and realigned its operations in this field in 2011. As demand for expert services continues to grow, Schuler sees opportunities to expand its current approximately 20% share of the service market significantly.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120264/Article.aspxThis year's METAV, an international fair for manufacturing technology and automation held in even years, will be held from February 28 to March 3 in Düsseldorf, Germany."The current status is that we're expecting approximately 620 exhibitors from 26 different countries," reports Dr Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director at the METAV organizer VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association). According to VDW, they will take up a net exhibition area of more than 35,500sq m, 10% up on the figure for the previous event in 2010. "The keen participatory interest in the first international trade fair in the metalworking sector right at the year's beginning shows that following a successful 2011 the firms are anticipating a successful time in 2012 as well," Dr Schäfer remarks. A significant contribution towards the METAV's growth is said to be from the manufacturers of high-precision tools, who will be occupying about a fifth of the total exhibition area, with an increase of 50%.Of all METAV exhibitors, 12% will be coming from overseas, primarily from Japan and the USA, and around 20% from Europe outside Germany.Supplementing the exhibitors' showcased capabilities will be an extensive accompanying programme, in which more than 70 companies and institutions are involved. These concurrent events include: - METAV Technology Forum: Sustainable Cutting Processes, on February 29 and March 1- Special Show: Metal meets Medical - From One-of-a-Kind to Bulk Production, from February 28 to March 3- Special Forum: Medical Technology, from February 28 to March 3 - Joint stand: Technology Competence from North Rhine-Westphalia, from February 28 to March 3- Symposium: Production Technology as the Key to Electromobility on February 29- Special Show: CompositesWorld Area - Composites for Lightweight Construction, on February 28 - Lecture Forum of the Carbon Composites Network Association, from February 28 to March 3- Special Show for Young People: "Mechanical Engineering - a Job with Power", from February 28 to March 3http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120262/Article.aspxThe US-based Mate Precision Tooling is introducing its new, patent-pending lubrication pads, Eliminator, designed to keep the punch tip lubricated throughout the punching process, preventing galling and other problems. They also help reduce heat buildup in the punch, extending tool life while maintaining quality edges to punched parts.According to the company, Eliminator lubrication pads can insert easily into tooling assemblies. Once in place, they ensure even distribution of lubricant on the punch through each punching cycle, providing extra tooling protection and enhancing the punching process. They are particularly helpful when punching difficult materials and when operating the turret press at optimal speeds, Mate stresses."Mate's Eliminator lubrication pads help deliver more value to the punching process," says John Galich, Mate marketing manager. "During our extensive product testing, our test engineers were amazed that there was no galling on the punch. They are an economical way to extend tooling life while ensuring top quality punching results. Eliminator pads are yet another innovative Mate product that helps fabricators lower their operating costs and improve their piece part quality."The lubrication pads are made of durable polyether filter foam. They are available in sizes for A through E station thick turret tooling, but can also be used in other tooling styles.To set up, the user is to insert a lubrication pad of a correct size into the punch and stripper assembly, "punch" the hole into the pad, and then saturate the pad with 46- 68 ISO viscosity hydraulic oil, according to Mate.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120261/Article.aspxOn May 8-9, the VDI Wissensforum will organize the "Maintenance of Wind Turbines" conference in Hamburg, Germany, to provide information regarding promising maintenance concepts, as well as projections of possible cost and risks involved.The conference will be led by Professor Andreas Reuter, CEO and head of the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind-Powered Energy and Energy Systems Technology (IWES). It will deal with technical requirements, legal issues, the formulation of contracts and questions dealing with human resources.A further discussion point will be the cause and effect of significant mechanical defects on wind turbines, the conference organizer says.Attending experts include representatives of Acciona Energy, Availon, Deutsche Windtechnik AG, GE Renewable Energy and Vestas Offshore.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120255/Article.aspxAccording to Chinese media reports, China's Dalian Machine Tool Group Corporation (DMTG) will technologically upgrade its vertical machining centers, robotic welding lines and some other projects during the 12th Five-Year Plan period.As reported, DMTG focuses on improving its automation capabilities as a response to the higher and higher labor costs. And following its technology upgrade, DMTG aims to achieve more than RMB50 billion in terms of both sales and production.DMTG is a modern company that is growing rapidly with a reputation of innovation, quality and integrity. DMTG now has totally 22 effective subsidiaries, joint ventures and cooperation with world famous partners from USA, Germany, Japan, Korea, Switzerland and Israel, including Hennig, Index, IBAG, and ISCAR.As a result of this upgrade, the efficiency of DMTG's production and assembly line will be largely improved by five to six times or higher. Compared with the traditional way requiring almost 3,000 people, after the upgrade, only 500 people will be needed in processing and assembling two to three times more machines. What's more, an intelligent fault diagnosis system will be equipped, which will considerably shorten the troubleshooting time. As said, technicians will be able to identify and locate problems in one minute's time, hence enabling rapid solving.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120182/Article.aspxAutomechanika Shanghai, one of Asia's leading trade fairs for automotive parts, equipment and service suppliers, once again set new records for its exhibitor and visitor numbers in 2011, according to Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd, one of the organizers of the show.Also organized by China National Automotive Industry International Corporation (CNAICO), Automechanika Shanghai 2011 covered an exhibition area of 160,000sq m, including 13 halls and six temporary halls, as well as an outdoor exhibiting area. The show attracted 3,619 exhibitors from 36 countries and regions, and 61,178 visitors from 131 countries. Commenting on the new show record, Jason Cao, General Manager, Messe Frankfurt Shanghai Co Ltd, said: "Automechanika Shanghai has grown rapidly in just seven years and I'm glad to see that the show is becoming more developed and diversified to meet the demand of the industry. This year, we have set up specific areas for remanufacturing and new energy. In addition, even stronger support from international associations and organizations, like Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA) and Institut für Kraftfahrwesen Aachen University (ika), to the show and high standard of fringe programme also reinforces the status of Automechanika Shanghai in the industry."The next edition of Automechanika Shanghai will take place from December 11-14, 2012.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120181/Article.aspxAccording to the latest data released by China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), the country produced 184.19 million vehicles while selling 185.05 million vehicles in 2011, representing year-on-year increases of 0.84% and 2.45% respectively.Although the output and sales both exceeded 180 million vehicles in 2011, their growth rates were down by 31.60 and 29.92 percentage points respectively compared with 2010. What's more, the growth rates in 2011 were the lowest in the past 13 years.CAAM attributed the decreases in growth rates to the implementation of China's macro-economic adjustment measures and the withdrawal of favorable policies. Other reasons included the high baseline due to the high growth rates recorded in 2010, as well as the implementation of restrictions on car purchases in Beijing and other cities.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120142/Article.aspxHarting Technology Group reports that it has been awarded the "TOP Newcomer 2011" by the FAZ Institute.TOP, or Technologieorientierte Besuchs- und Innovationsprogramm, is a "technology oriented visiting and innovation program" pursuing the aim of promoting the exchange of experience and knowledge between large scale and medium size companies (called "Mittelstand" in German). The 100 member companies of the innovation network are engaged in regular exchange on success concepts in the areas of production processes, technology and strategy.Within the context of various events held in 2011, experts and managers from the member companies of TOP discussed their particular innovations. Addressing the topic of "Employees come first - and never stand in the way", Harting hosted the first TOP event, during which the company also showed how the challenge of customer specific, individual solutions can be solved in connection with low order volumes.As Harting says, it was awarded the "TOP Newcomer 2011" distinction in acknowledgement of its exceptional commitment and the excellent evaluation of its exchange of experience and knowledge among German companies, following the evaluation of the events by the participants and the FAZ Institute.The distinction was awarded in the course of a meeting of the German Society for the Promotion of Research on Standardization at DIN in Berlin. The award was received by Dr-Ing Eh Dietmar Harting, President and Partner of the group.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120141/Article.aspxGleason Corporation, producer of gear production machinery and related equipment, will introduce a series of advanced new capabilities, technologies and localized customer support service at the second International Power Transmission Expo (IPTEX 2012) to be held from February 9 to 12 in Mumbai, India. Gleason will show Genesis production capabilities, OPTI-GRIND, which is said to be the industry's most complete line of gear-cutting tools and workholding solutions, advanced workholding solutions and so on.Significant productivity benefits are possible on new Gleason Profile Grinding Machines utilizing the OPTI-GRIND process. As introduced, this breakthrough technology uses multiple grinding wheels (for roughing and finishing), achieving significantly reduced production times. Users also benefit from improved part quality as a consequence of optimized contact conditions between the grinding wheel and the workpiece flank and improved surface finish. The company also designs and produces a complete series of quick-change, tool-less workholding equipment for both cylindrical gear and bevel gear, and non-gear production machines. According to the company, these systems range from Gleason X-Pandisk systems which automatically align workpieces weighing up to 2,000 kg to reduce changeover time by up to 70%, to Quik-Flex and a large variety of quick-change workholding solutions that significantly reduce change-over times for the production of both bevel and cylindrical gears. http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120111/Article.aspxLeading supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems, SKF recently announced that it will take one-off costs of around SEK 100 million in the fourth quarter of 2011. According to SKF, there's about SEK 40 million related to impairment of assets, and it has no impact on cash flow. The remaining costs are related to various restructuring activities. Approximately SEK 60 million of the total will affect the Industrial Division and most of the balance will affect the Service Division, notes the company.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120110/Article.aspxGF AgieCharmilles recently announced that its new, detail-rich and interactive portfolio is now available. According to GF AgieCharmilles, available free of charge on the Apple App Store as part of its iPad app, its portfolio includes a wide range of success triggering high-speed and high-performance milling, EDM, laser and automation solutions. Besides, its customizable customer services offering is available at the same time.Features of the iPad edition of the GF AgieCharmilles Portfolio include rotating 3D machine models, virtual showrooms, pinch-and-zoom detail photos, and an interactive map showing GF AgieCharmilles' locations worldwide.Under the Swiss Georg Fischer Group, Switzerland-based GF AgieCharmilles is the world's leading provider of machines, automation solutions and services to the tool and mold making industry and to manufacturers of precision components. http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120081/Article.aspxAccording to a recent press release of CMTBA-China Machine Tool Builders' Association, the seventh China CNC Machine Tool Show (CCMT 2012), to be held from April 16-20 in Nanjing, China, will add another 5,000sq m to meet exhibitors' increasing demand, contributing to the total exhibition area of 86,000sq m. And because of this, CCMT 2012 will become the largest exhibition in Nanjing in 2012.According to the organizer, CCMT is recognized by exhibitors and visitors as one of the most important machine tool exhibitions in China. CCMT is the sister exhibition of CIMT (China International Machine Tool Show). It represents product groups include CNC machines, machine controls, machine components, industrial machinery, encoders, linear systems and many more. The theme of this session of CCMT will be "Keeping pace with increasing demands and accelerating structural adjustment."Li Jingming, Vice President of CMTBA expressed his confidence in the success of CCMT 2012 with the support and hard work from the organizer, contractors, and all the related local departments. He promised to try the best to build a high level, quality exhibition as well as a platform for information exchange and sourcing.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120080/Article.aspxKuka Systems announced an automotive order from the US lately. A division of Augsburg-based Kuka Aktiengesellschaft and a global player in the systems business receives an order from a German premium car company to install new production systems at the automaker's factory in southeastern US and to upgrade existing assembly lines without shutting down the plant.According to the announcement, the project is valued in the mid-double-digit million euro range and was booked in the fourth quarter of 2011. The order includes the design, construction and startup of framing lines, which will be used to produce car bodies for various SUV models. Kuka Systems Corp North America, an American subsidiary of Kuka based in Sterling Heights, Michigan, will provide site supervision for the project starting in April 2012. The job is expected to be completed by mid-2014. "The decision to award the order to our company was based on the long-standing, excellent working relationship with our customer, as well as the project management and process systems expertise of KUKA Systems and its employees," emphasized Dr Till Reuter, KUKA Aktiengesellschaft's CEO.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120055/Article.aspxSeco reports that its recently redesigned customer magazine - EDGE was recognized the "Best Customer Magazine" at this year's award ceremony by the The Svenska Designpriset (Swedish Design Prize), a graphic communication competition open to everyone.The design prize jury was quoted as explaining that Edge won this prize because it makes the left and right side of the brain work together in perfect harmony. While traditional magazines present industrial production and processes in a complicated and inaccessible way to the average person, Edge is just as thought-out and effective as the tools being written about.Seco's Jennifer Hilliard, Editor of the magazine, says, "I couldn't be more proud - I have worked closely with Appelberg Publishing to create three fantastic issues so far, and they deserve this recognition for all their hard work."According to Seco, there are more than 45,000 copies of Edge printed twice a year and it's translated into 25 languages. Product managers, experts, Seco employees and customers offer their expertise and knowledge to create interesting case stories, give product information and offer advice, while graphic designers, journalists and creative team members wrap it all up with fantastic photography and an edgy style.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120054/Article.aspxAccording to the latest news from AMTDA, the American Machine Tool Distributors' Association and AMT - The Association For Manufacturing Technology, in November 2011 U.S. manufacturing technology orders totaled US$430.17 million. This total, as reported by companies participating in the USMTO program, was down 6.9% from October but up 26.6% when compared with the total of US$339.68 million reported for November 2010. With a year-to-date total of US$4,956.51 million, 2011 is up 73.9% compared with 2010.Metal cutting technology orders was US$372.35 million in November 2011, 13.1% down from the previous month at US$428.64 million and up by 24.7% year on year. Metal forming and fabricating technology orders were US$57.82 million, representing an increase of 72.0% in comparison to last month, and an increase of 40.4% from November 2010."Manufacturing technology orders slowed slightly in November, but maintained their sprint toward the 2011 finish line thanks to the bonus depreciation tax incentive," said Peter Borden, AMTDA President. "The order slowdown in metal cutting equipment was countered by acceleration in the fabricating sector and contributed to an increase over 2010 of nearly 75%. Backlogs for 2012 are very healthy at this point and growing longer."http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120023/Article.aspxOn the occasion of WESTEC 2012, to be held from March 27-29 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Delcam will demonstrate the latest developments in its CADCAM products. The range of enhancements enables faster and easier programming for CNC machining and produces more efficient tool paths to give greater machine productivity.According to Delcam, the most important enhancement in PowerMILL 2012 for high-speed and five-axis machining, is Flowline Machining. This dedicated strategy for high-speed machining divides the toolpath between a pair of drive curves in a constant number of passes, rather than having a varying number of passes with a constant stepover. This approach gives fewer sudden changes of direction and so produces a superior part surface finish, with less wear on the cutter and the machine tool.FeatureCAM 2012, the latest release of the feature-based CAM system, includes a range of enhancements for quick and accurate CAM programming for production machining on lathes, mills and mill-turn machines. Two new strategies are back boring and spiral roughing. Back boring allows more parts to be completed in a single set-up, with larger bores able to be produced on the reverse side of the part. Spiral roughing can be used instead of Z-level roughing. It uses a single continuous toolpath instead of a series of levels giving a smoother finish with no dwell marks. Major highlights of PartMaker 2012 include a new module for the simulation of vertical and horizontal machining centers, improved simulation for the latest breed of multi-axis, turn-mill and Swiss-lathe machine architectures, more powerful surface machining strategies, and improved program visualization, as well as a host of additional productivity enhancements.The 2012 version of Delcam for SolidWorks, the SolidWorks Certified Gold Partner product for CAM programming within the SolidWorks environment, includes programming of wire EDM for the first time, alongside the comprehensive options for the programming of turning, mill-turn, drilling and two- through five-axis milling.As for the 2012 release of Delcam's PowerSHAPE CAD system, the major change is a range of direct modeling options. Unlike other programs that have incorporated direct modeling as part of a product design system, the PowerSHAPE options are focused on design for manufacture, in particular on preparing product designs for the development of molds and other types of tooling.Delcam says the new functionality will enable tooling designers to tackle all the common problems that they find in product designs, such as insufficient draft or inappropriate fillet sizes. Direct modeling is faster to use than surface modeling and so can shorten the overall time needed to produce tooling designs. Together with the extensive data translation and data repair options already available in PowerSHAPE, the addition of direct modeling gives a unique range of capabilities to programmers and designers.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-120021/Article.aspxDuring METAV 2012, an international fair for manufacturing technology and automation, a technology forum themed "Sustainable Cutting Processes" will be held on February 29 through March 1.Keynote topics of the forum will be drilling (first day of the conference), and high-precision machining and hard fine machining (second day). "Both of these are topics that deserve to be discussed by both machine tool and die manufacturers, particularly in terms of a holistic approach to the cutting process", to quote Professor Frank Barthelmä, Executive Director of the GFE - The Society for Production Technology and Development in Schmalkalden, Germany. To solve the problems involved in machining new materials, he adds, it is vital to focus development work involving machines and tools rigorously on shortened process chains, so as to guarantee quality-compliant yet affordable production operations at the user's facility. Representative examples will be adduced in the lectures.The METAV Technology Forum will include contributions by experts from the machine tool industry, such as Chiron Werke in Tuttlingen, von MAG Europe, Göppingen, Röders in Soltau, A. Monforts Werkzeugmaschinen in Mönchengladbach, TBT Tiefbohrtechnik in Dettingen and Ewag AG in Etziken. From the high-precision tool industry, speakers include representatives of the following firms: Mapal from Aalen, Gühring, Albstadt, Paul Horn, Tübingen, MMC Hartmetall, Meerbusch, Iscar Germany, Ettlingen. Cutting technology expertise will be represented by the Römheld company from Laubach.METAV Technology Forum is hosted by the GFE Schmalkalden in cooperation with the METAV's organiser VDW (the German Machine Tool Builders' Association) and the Specialized Section Precision Tools within the VDMA, conceptual sponsor of the METAV 2012.METAV 2012 will be held from February 28 to March 3 in Düsseldorf, Germany, showcasing the entire spectrum of manufacturing technology, with focus on machine tools, production systems, high-precision tools, automated material flows, computer technology, industrial electronics and accessories. So far more than 500 exhibitors from 22 different countries have registered for the METAV 2012, on over 33,000sq m of net exhibition area.The last METAV in 2010 attracted approximately 45,000 trade visitors from 26 different countries.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119983/Article.aspxCai Weici, Executive Vice-President of China Machinery Industry Federation (CMIF), reported on the economic development of the Chinese machinery industry in 2011, while giving his forecast for 2012 during a recent conference on the economic situation of the machinery industry in China.According to Mr Cai, in 2011, the Chinese machinery industry welcomed the 12th Five-year Plan with a good start. Statistics reveal that in the first 10 months of 2011, the industry's gross output value was RMB13.64 trillion, an increase of 25.93% year on year. In the first nine months of last year, the industry's revenues from main business increased by 26.16% to RMB11.84 trillion, and profits totaled RMB806 billion, up by 18.25%.Mr Cai pointed out that the Chinese machinery industry achieved substantial progress in adjusting its industrial structure in 2011. The pace of product upgrade to the high end accelerated, and breakthroughs were achieved in key parts and components. New advancements were also made in developing modern manufacturing services and extending the supply chain. Besides, the regional structure continued to be adjusted as expected.For the full year 2011, Mr Cai foresaw that the Chinese machinery industry would see an increase of 25% in sales rate, 16% in profits, 24% in exports, and 15% in industrial added value.Looking ahead into 2012, Mr Cai predicted that the Chinese machinery industry would face lesser pressures, while the implementation of fine adjustments would facilitate upgrade of the industry. And due to continued capacity expansion, competition among companies will become fiercer. He therefore foresaw that in 2012, the industry would rise by 18% to 20% in sales rate, 12% to 15% in profits, and 15% to 18% in exports.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119980/Article.aspxMachine tool builder Mazak announces that the Greenspoint District near Houston, Texas, the US, has recently named its Southwest Technology Center and Regional Headquarters the area's "Company of the Year" for demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the community.Located 15 miles north of downtown Houston and minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport, the Greenspoint District is a municipal entity created to ensure economic prosperity for Greenspoint's businesses and an exceptional quality of life for its employees and residents. Mazak says it has been a part of the Greenspoint District since 1982. Last June, after outgrowing its original Greenspoint location, Mazak opened a new 30,000 square-foot Southwest facility on 4.5-acres of land within the district."Mazak's new Southwest location enhances Greenspoint's reputation as a business district that attracts world-class corporations," said Jack Drake, President of the Greenspoint District. "As the world's largest machine tool builder, Mazak had the opportunity to move out of Greenspoint, but they chose to stay with us - and for that, we are very appreciative."Mazak's Southwest Technology Center and Regional Headquarters currently employs a workforce of 48 individuals, with the goal of opening up 15 new positions throughout 2012. This customer support facility services manufacturers in all industry sectors, with a special focus on the energy sector, by showcasing its latest machine tool technology and offering a world-class training center."It was a surprise and honor to be named Greenspoint's 'Company of the Year'," said Dana Scott, General Manager for Mazak's Southwest facility. "Manufacturing is alive and well in Texas, and Greenspoint has always been an ideal location for us to offer our customers the best possible manufacturing solutions."In addition to Mazak, more than 4,000 companies call Greenspoint home, including Citgo Petroleum, ExxonMobil, Shell Oil Products US, Ashley Furniture, United Airlines, DHL Worldwide Express, Federal Express and Sysco Foods.According to Mr Drake, 2011 marks the Greenspoint District's 19th year of administering its "Company of the Year" awards program. The district's board of directors and staff are responsible for selecting the winner each year.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119940/Article.aspxKurt Manufacturing Company, Industrial Products Division, announced the USA based automated manufacturing of precision AngLock vises for shipment and marketing in China.To support this, the US precision workholding products manufacturer also announced the opening of Kurt Manufacturing Shanghai, its sales and service facilities in Shanghai.Steve Kane, global sales and marketing manager for Kurt Industrial Products, made the announcement and stated, "Kurt's Automated Production Systems allow us to make our vise products here in Minnesota and ship them to China while being globally competitive. Kurt Manufacturing Shanghai is an exciting growth opportunity for Kurt precision machine vises in the dynamic Chinese manufacturing market."According to the announcement, Kurt Manufacturing Shanghai has two separate locations, with one for a new sales office and a second for a new showroom.New personnel includes: Jack Chen, who is sales manager and responsible for the development and management of dealers, sales agents and customer development; Echo Ge, who provides general services and is responsible for product promotion, network promotion and trade show participation; and Charlie Zhao, handles sales and is responsible for customer communication, feedback and service.http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119939/Article.aspxSKF announces the establishment of a global, marine-focused network of specialized technology and service centers that will focus on providing a complete range of marine solutions to improve fleet efficiency and predictability in a sustainable way.The first SKF Marine Industry Service Center is opening this month near Rotterdam, the Netherlands. According to SKF, this center will be the hub of SKF global marine services, and plans call for additional marine centers to be established in Asia and Latin America."The SKF Marine Industry Service Center near the port of Rotterdam is a major step forward for SKF, as an increasingly important player in the marine industry," comments Gerald Rolfe, SKF Executive Business Manager, Marine. "The SKF Marine Industry Service Center incorporates a team of more than 30 highly experienced marine engineers, and is connected to the worldwide network of local SKF sales and service units."The SKF Marine Industry Service Center will provide a wide range of services and products for the marine industry and will accommodate facilities for training and certification related to the marine industry.According to SKF Global Marine Segment Manager David LH Johansson, SKF has developed a range of solutions that improve availability and cut operating costs across the marine market, "Our expertise applies to machinery systems on a range of ship types, from oil & gas fleets and pipelay vessels, large container carriers and cruise ships, to highly specialized research vessels and workboats." He notes, "Whether a business is involved in designing, building, sailing or maintaining a vessel, SKF can help improve profitability in a multitude of ways."http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119903/Article.aspxAMT - the Association for Manufacturing Technology says in a release that that the outlook for US manufacturing technology in 2012 remains positive.The association attributes it to the weak US dollar, which is making exports strong. Also, reshoring is in full bloom, and the manufacturing base is reinvesting in the latest tools. In addition, energy will continue to be a large investor in manufacturing technology.Other favorable factors include: The automotive industry is making major changes to address green issues, which will lead to significant investments in production technology, as well as spending to support the shift of the industry's center from Detroit to the South/Southwest; and aerospace green field investments will continue in the Southeast and West.Douglas K Woods, President of AMT says, "This all said, manufacturing in America still needs help. Jobs are an unresolved issue. Despite the high number of Americans out of work, manufacturing jobs continue to go unfilled. That is because the factory floor today is very different from what it used to be. It is awash with new technologies and processes that require advanced training and adaptable skills. We need a 'smartforce' of workers who are up to the job."Until we take steps to level the playing field for U.S. companies in the global marketplace by eliminating trade barriers, reining in regulations, and lowering taxes for manufacturers, we risk losing ground to our foreign competitors in new markets and industries. We must keep the pressure on our elected officials to come up with a focused plan for moving forward. AMT is poised to work with the Federal Government to implement a national manufacturing strategy - a Manufacturing Mandate that will establish America as the worldwide leader in next-generation manufacturing technologies and the world-class products and services they provide. Continued growth in our manufacturing sector is a necessary step on the path to sustainable economic prosperity and worldwide leadership and only achievable through the concerted, collaborative efforts of the stakeholders."http://www.adsalecmj.com/Publicity/MarketNews/lang-eng/article-119902/Article.aspx