FABTECH 2025 Sneak Preview: The Future of Manufacturing is Here
Get ready for FABTECH 2025 in Chicago! Experience the future of metal fabrication, including the new the Job Shop Pavilion, from September 8-11 at McCormick Place. Be among the first to experience products that will strengthen your business. The post FABTECH 2025 Sneak Preview: The Future of Manufacturing is Here appeared first on Fabricating & Metalworking.
When FABTECH, North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event returns to Chicago this year, it will feature its largest ever exhibit hall footprint spanning three halls. The exhibit floor will feature more than 850,000 square feet with more than 1,500 exhibitors.
Beyond viewing demonstrations of automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, and advanced welding equipment, among other processes, the more than 45,000 expected attendees are also able to select from among 200 expert-led sessions that discuss topics such as supply chain strategies, smart factory implementation, job shop production, workforce development and leadership methods.
A new addition to FABTECH is the Job Shop Pavilion, where exhibitors will demonstrate tools and technology to support smarter, faster, and more precise scaling for small and mid-sized fabricators.
FABTECH has rebranded the METALFORM Pavilion as the Stamping, Tool & Die, and Press Automation Pavilion. Additional pavilions include: Automation, Welding, Forming & Fabricating, Tube & Pipe, and Finishing.
World Premiere for Tube Laser and Press Brake Machines
At FABTECH, BLM GROUP USA (Novi, MI), will demonstrate the ways laser machines can work together with benders and press brakes to reduce or eliminate secondary processes downstream in an “All-In-One” functional solution in Booth A-2138.
Machine debuts include:
- The world debut of the new tube laser for medium-sized tubes that provides compatibility with the quality-of-life features of larger models with a more modest footprint.
- The world debut of the all-new, fully automated press brake system sporting a simple setup for real-time synchronization between the robot and press brake.
- The all-electric E-TURN63 tube bender, capable of right- and left-hand, in-process bending of tubes up to 2.5” (63 mm), will make its North American debut. It performs complex bends in a single cycle, an ideal machine for industrial plants, as well as automotive, furniture and shipbuilding applications.
Returning appearances include:
- The LT-FREE 5-axis laser, equipped with robotic arm, will demonstrate how complex part geometries with variable thicknesses can pave the way for innovative applications.
- The LS5 with load/unload automation is back in its transversal model to showcase high-quality, precise sheet cutting with an evenly distributed footprint.
- The all-electric ProBend 260-150 with its patented direct-drive torque motors will showcase the precision and repeatability of the BLM GROUP line of press brakes.
- The ELECT102, capable of bending tubes up to 4” in diameter, is an all-electric tube bender that specializes in handling large, robust tubes for right- or left-hand bends.
- The Four Runner H3 supports right- and left-hand bends to process small and medium diameter tubes, specializing in complex shapes to make flat or 3D serpentines.
Spotlight on Plate and Angle Rolling Technology
Davi Inc. (Dallas, TX), the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of advanced plate and angle rolling machines and automated metalworking production systems, will showcase its broad range of advanced, labor-saving plate and angle rolls in Booth A-4314. Among those innovative systems, the company will demonstrate its transformative all-electric MCE e-POWER plate rolling machine.
The MCE e-POWER machine provides manufacturers in high-tolerance processes positioning accuracy of five hundredths, compared to the typical one-tenth precision normally offered. Because there is no hydraulic fluid to push through the system, the MCE e-POWER provides simultaneous movements across multiple axes and executes multiple tasks concurrently.
It also minimizes the need for human intervention and eliminates points of leakage commonly found in traditional machines, which translates into improved reliability and increased uptime. The absence of hydraulic control units significantly contributes to the machine’s small footprint.
Davi will also demonstrate its new iVision laser radius measuring system for MCE e-POWER machines that brings artificial intelligence (AI) to the plate rolling process. With the combination of a laser blade measuring system, AI and a specific algorithm, iVision encompasses reading/measuring and self-correction through the machine’s CNC to automatically adjust in real time.
Davi will also highlight its portfolio of angle and plate rolling machines, including the MCP 11 angle roll. The MCP series machines, offered in small and larger heavy-duty models, feature three powered rolls, each of which has its own dedicated, synchronized hydraulic motor to facilitate section feeding and provide high torque. The two side rolls on the machines move against a fixed top roll, and Davi’s patented planetary guide technology actuates the side rolls to provide the necessary bending force while maintaining close tolerances in tight diameters.
Davi’s MCA 2017 4-roll and MCB E30 4-roll plate rolling machines are for thinner materials and medium to heavy-duty plates, respectively. They provide perfect control over plate position by clamping it with a bottom roll, and Davi’s patented Servo-Tronic© parallelism control system keeps machine rolls in perfect alignment. The 4-roll machines are fully CNC control enabled for automated production with limited operator input.
For heavy-duty applications, there is Davi’s MAV 30-80 3-roll variable axis plate rolling machine with tilting rolls for precise cone bending and maximum flexibility. The MAV series is suitable for rolling plate thicknesses from 3”-to-4” and greater.
Variety of Plasma and Waterjet Cutting Technology on Display
Hypertherm Associates (Hanover, N.H.), a U.S.-based leading manufacturer of industrial cutting systems and software, will showcase a variety of precision plasma and waterjet cutting technology along with production-enhancing software and digital solutions in booths A-4513 and B-15051.
For gouging and flush-cut applications, the Hypertherm Powermax SYNC® series will be on display, including the Powermax45 SYNC®, which features built-in intelligence, a patented single-piece cartridge and up to five times longer consumable life with greater cutting power than its higher-amperage competitors. The Powermax85 SYNC® air plasma cutter simplifies gouging operations and is recommended for cutting thicknesses up to an inch.
Hypertherm Associates’ will also demonstrate the XPR® line with X-Definition® technology. The XPR460® provides unmatched cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel, steel and aluminum. The unit performs multiple applications with SureCut® technology for bolt-ready holes and smooth 45° bevels. It is well suited for robotic cutting applications and is future enabled for Smart Factory integration and connectivity.
Hypertherm Associates’ OMAX waterjet cutting technology will also be on display, including the OMAX® OptiMAX®, MAXIEM® and ProtoMAX® waterjet cutting systems. OptiMAX is the culmination of three decades of waterjet engineering and expertise, and comes standard with the exclusive IntelliTRAX linear drive system that provides real-time, closed-loop positioning feedback. It is backed by the industry-leading IntelliMAX® premium software. At FABTECH, the OptiMAX will feature a taper-eliminating Tilt-A-Jet® cutting nozzle that moves taper to the scrap part for exact square edges on the workpiece.
The company will also feature the VersaJet® cutting nozzle in a live cutting demonstration, which has a cutting range of 0°-to-60° for 5-axis cutting of beveled edges, angled sides, countersinks and 3D shapes.
The company will also demonstrate its ProNest® and Robotmaster® software systems. ProNest is designed for advanced mechanized cutting applications, including plasma, laser, waterjet and oxyfuel. Robotmaster is an offline programming software that cuts robot programming time and seamlessly blends robot programming, simulation and code generation for quicker, error-free results and greater productivity.
Hypertherm will also host world-renowned metal artist Rae Ripple, who will demonstrate her craft using a Hypertherm Powermax45 SYNC plasma cutter in the Welding Pavilion at Booth B-15051.
Cost-effective Automated Arc Welding Robotics
KUKA Robotics Corp. (Shelby Township, MI) will feature its cost-effective and efficient automated arc welding robotics and technology in Booth B-17039. KUKA will demonstrate the KR CYBERTECH nano ARC Edition robot, which delivers superior weld quality compared to traditional arc welding and is built for flexible, continuous operation. Its economical operation helps manufacturers optimize their welding applications and overall productivity at a lower cost.
The Edition robot is available in two reaches from 1,440 mm-to-2,010 mm and features a hollow wrist with bearings on either side of the robot with a diameter of 46 mm and a repeatability of 0.04 mm. The robot delivers an extremely high path accuracy and speed to workpieces for maximum efficiency and less downtime. These robots use the latest-generation KR C5 controller and appropriate welding software, such as KUKA.ArcTech Basic. The variant offers simplified, focused and reliable technology as well as significantly lowering procurement costs.
KUKA will also debut the new arc cellerate cell, the company’s standardized welding solution designed to offer an economical and efficient option for high-mix, low-volume applications. Available in both index and side-by-side configurations, these fully equipped cells are ready to perform a wide range of welding tasks for diverse manufacturing needs.
“Connected, Live, Smart”: MES Software Streamlines Projects
Lantek Sheetmetal Solutions USA (Mason, OH), a global leader in sheet metal software solutions, will showcase its groundbreaking Lantek v44 software and iQuoting module at Booth A-3106. iQuoting provides a streamlined workflow, centralizing all quoting tasks within a single platform, creating accurate quotes at the beginning of the manufacturing process.
Lantek v44 redefines production efficiency with its “Connect, Live, Smart” approach. This release enhances factory connectivity, data flow, and decision-making by leveraging cutting-edge tools.
The Assembly to Nesting 3D importer is a major upgrade in Lantek v44 where users import and unfold common 3D CAD file formats for quoting or production. The module automatically recognizes design structure, whether it involves sheet metal, tube parts, profiles, or supplier elements including full assembly structure recognition. Additionally, it supports standard bevels recognition, automatically assigning the corresponding technology when transferring the part data to Lantek Expert.
2D CAD/CAM enhancements include a new nesting strategy based on production workflow parameters such as customers data, manufacturing routing, and delivery dates; and a new Import Assistant provides smarter DXF/DWG geometry cleaning and layers management, streamlining data imports and increasing efficiency.
Lantek Flex3D optimizes tube and profile cutting with an improved engine that increases speed, precision and flexibility. Numerous areas have been enhanced, supporting the management of advanced robotic cutting heads. Additionally, the MES Intralogistics is a new application designed for operators that improves the management and tracking of raw material supply from the warehouse to cutting work centers.
When it comes to machine connectivity, the MES WOS Live module interfaces with machine controllers, allowing automatic validation of operations, which streamlines workflows, reduces manual interventions, and ensures accuracy on production data. The Control Panel module complements this by offering a cloud-based web dashboard for monitoring machine status, diagnosing maintenance issues, and providing performance insights.
Enhance Your Weld Environment and Operations
In Booth B-20027 Miller Electric Mfg. LLC (Appleton, WI) will showcase the solutions to enhance welding operations and weld environments — from fume protection to handheld and automated welders. Among the many manufacturing solutions Miller will highlight at FABTECH are:
Weld Fume Solutions: Minimize weld fume exposure and increase compliance with respiratory protection and fume extraction solutions. Protect your weld operators with versatile Powered Air Purifying Respirator solutions (PAPR II) now with longer battery life and increased comfort with a lighter weight. The new Bernard® Clean Air E
MIG gun captures up to 95% of weld fume directly at the source. Connect up to four fume guns to the Miller® FILTAIR® 215 high-vacuum fume extractor for strong effective fume removal.
Battery Powered Welder: Power and mobility work hand in hand with the newly released Miller® Venture 150 S battery powered stick/TIG welder. Eliminate the need for hauling long, heavy leads with swappable batteries engineered specifically for welding. With the battery and welder weighing less than 27 pounds, it is ideal for the quick welding jobs in remote or hard to reach locations.
Intuitive Automation: Miller will preview its collaboration with Novarc Technologies to bring NovAI, an advanced computer vision and AI system, into the Copilot Builder. This integration enables adaptive welding, allowing fabricators to automate a broader range of parts by intelligently adjusting for part fit-up variations and other inconsistencies. Also on display will be the PerformArc robotic welding systems, which can now be paired with the all-new IntelliPath offline programming software, which streamlines programming and setup, increases precision and enhances safety.
New Software for Robot Stations and Automated Welding Solutions
Pemamek Ltd. (Cincinnati, OH), a leader in automated welding systems, has launched the all-new PEMA CellControl, an advanced software program developed to enhance the efficiency and functionality of PEMA robot stations. It places comprehensive workflow management of a single or multiple work cells at the operators’ fingertips through an intuitive, browser-based touchscreen interface, simplifying and accelerating robot station operations. Pemamek will showcase this and their advanced automated welding solutions in Booth B-35036.
PEMA CellControl’s drag and drop job queue and product database functions, the latter of which allows operators to build their own product directories, ensure that preprogrammed welding jobs and repetitive tasks can be managed effortlessly, reducing downtime and boosting output. The live status monitoring and built-in alarms provide instant feedback and rapid responses to any outages. The capability to oversee multiple robot cells from a single platform allows the software to simplify the management of complex workflows, maximizing production hours. Operators can monitor each cell’s live status and make adjustments on the fly.
Versatile Offline Robot Programming
Visual Components (Carmel, IN) brings decades of software development, advanced 3D simulation expertise and offline robot programming (OLP) software to Booth B-10060. Visitors can see live demonstrations of Visual Components Robotics OLP software implementing robotic welding applications. To highlight the software’s cross-platform capability, robots from two different suppliers will be used at the show. The company’s flexible and customizable solutions offer today’s manufacturers software for reimagining new and efficient manufacturing processes and systems.
Compatible with any industrial robot brand, process or complexity, the software ensures flexibility and seamless integration. It improves robot utilization rates with fast, accurate and error-free programing. In addition, the software allows programmers to update and re-program from anywhere, which decreases downtime because robots can continue working on the production floor. Plus, the OLP software stores process knowledge, making it simple to reuse programs and preserve institutional information.
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