EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

FANUC to showcase next-generation automation

Industrial automation expert FANUC will host a live demonstration of an automated drilling
cell developed by Airbus and incorporating FANUC robot technology. Visitors to stand 18-
449 can also see first-hand a new generation of CNC, the FANUC FS500i-A, which enables
complex manufacturing environments to meet high precision and adaptability demands. In
addition, FANUC will showcase its in-house robot system building capabilities.
The centrepiece of the UK stand will be the robotic drilling system, which employs a FANUC
M-800iA/60 six-axis robot, as well as a drilling effector controlled by a FANUC CNC and a
mobile platform, both designed and built by Airbus. Designed for aerospace components, it
has improved drilling accuracy and increased productivity for the aerospace giant, while
releasing operatives to work on more creative and value-added tasks.
More information www.fanuc.eu

MACH 2026: The Very Best in Advanced Manufacturing

MACH 2026 is fast approaching and is expected to attract thousands of attendees once
again at the NEC in Birmingham from 20-24 April. Across five exhibition halls, dedicated
technology zones will be focal points of vibrant activity. Throughout the week, exhibitors
will showcase an array of new, inspiring manufacturing technologies, including enthralling
demonstrations of live working machinery and product launches. 
James Selka, CEO of event owner and organiser, the MTA, says: “As market conditions look
to be turning more favourable across the manufacturing sector, 2026 is the year to visit
MACH. We’re placing a strong emphasis on highlighting the latest technologies across
multiple dedicated technology zones. No other UK exhibition brings together such a
comprehensive overview of the manufacturing technologies industry.”
More information www.machexhibition.com

WFL sets the date

On 5-7 May 2026, WFL Millturn Technologies will host its annual Technology Meeting at the company’s headquarters in Linz. Trade visitors from all over the world will have the opportunity to experience the latest manufacturing technologies and exchange ideas with industry experts. The event will focus on solutions for modern metal cutting, the latest R&D in WFL MILLTURN technology and practical applications along the entire process chain. Live demonstrations, technical presentations and personal discussions will provide immediate insight into the performance and prospects of modern manufacturing.

More information www.wfl.at/en

Fronius opens Tech Centre

Welding technology specialist Fronius UK has opened a Technical Competence Centre at the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Catcliffe. Located four miles from Sheffield city centre, the new centre offers customers the opportunity for bespoke welding trials, demonstrations, training, servicing and hands-on technical problem solving. The expansion strengthens support for Fronius customers nationwide, complementing sites in Milton Keynes and Kilmarnock. Professionals from manufacturing and fabrication are invited to attend the official opening in Catcliffe on 7 May and experience the latest in welding innovation. More information www.bit.ly/3NHymK1

Major trade fairs conclude 2026 editions

Concurrent manufacturing trade fairs, Guangzhou Industrial Technology and Asiamold Select – Guangzhou, concluded their 2026 editions earlier this month. Co-located with SPS (Smart Production Solutions) Guangzhou, the combined platform drew 40,026 professional visitors from domestic and international markets. Attendees gathered to source technologies and share insights across a wide range of advanced manufacturing segments, including industrial automation, embodied intelligence, robotics, mould making and additive manufacturing.

More information www.bit.ly/4lEnnha