Erowa introduces Robot Compact 150

The new Erowa Robot Compact 150 features a wide range of functions and a transfer weight of up to 150 kg. This new automation solution is suitable for the flexible loading of up to two production machines for all processing technologies – from eroding to milling. Thanks to its design, the loader offers high magazine density within a small footprint. 

An autonomous and flexible production cell, the Erowa Robot Compact 150 loads a die-sinking EDM machine with little space requirement. The two independent drives of the X axis enable long reach and minimal interfering contour to the machine.

It is even possible to load large Erowa MTS 400 pallets with a transfer weight of up to 150 kg and a workpiece height up to 400 mm on to the EDM machine. Over 500 Erowa pallets with different system sizes can be stored in the magazines, with magazine levels set up exactly as required.

An optional loading station can be integrated to save space. It enables large and heavy workpieces (UPC and MTS pallets) to be set up at an ergonomic height while the robot is working. An indexing system (4 x 90°) prevents the pallet from engaging in the wrong position and locks it automatically upon engagement.

Notably, the Erowa EWIS chip identification system (option) is based on RFID technology. It enables the unique identification of pallets and electrode holders fitted with EWIS chips in the robot magazine.

Regarding process control, the Erowa JMS 4.0 connects all data and oversees the entire production process. Due to the automated data flow and real-time monitoring of production processes, JMS 4.0 provides the basis for a seamless workflow, reports the company.

More information www.erowa.com

Sustainability from Seco

The ambition of cutting tool manufacturer Seco is to make manufacturing fast, easy and sustainable and, in 2025, the company is launching impactful initiatives to help customers reduce their environmental footprint and foster responsible business practices. For instance, the company is expanding its Life Cycle Assessment models for some turning and milling products. The models will provide customers with CO2 emissions data, use-phase estimates and insights into the benefits of circular services. Also, Seco’s Cutting Data Engine will enable users to calculate CO2 emissions based on estimated power consumption.

More information www.secotools.com

New Parts Finishing show set for November

The new Parts Finishing trade fair, taking place on 12-13 November 2025 in Karlsruhe, will kick off with an innovative concept. Adapted to the changing requirements of the manufacturing sector, it will present solutions for production steps that include deburring, component cleaning and surface finishing at a single venue. The event’s duration of just two days and turnkey, customisable booth packages ensure reasonable and precisely calculable costs for participation and associated expenses. Parts Finishing will also host a bilingual expert forum on both days of the show.

More information www.parts-finishing.de

R&D facility for Renishaw and IDEKO

Metrology company Renishaw and the research centre IDEKO have inaugurated a new Renishaw Solutions Centre in Elgoibar (Gipuzkoa), Spain. The new R&D facility aims to develop innovative solutions for the advanced manufacturing sector. Located on the premises of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA) member centre, the laboratory forms part of the collaboration agreement signed last year.

A long-term partnership agreement between the two organisations marks the beginning of a partnership that also involves Danobatgroup, a major industrial group in the field of machine tools. The Solutions Centre drives innovation for this group, while Renishaw has been a long-term technology supplier across several of its product lines.

More information www.renishaw.com

Mikron Group reports modest growth

The Mikron Group – which specialises in automation solutions, machining systems and cutting tools – is reporting preliminary and unaudited net sales of CHF374.1m for 2024, an increase of 1% compared with the previous year. The group’s automation business contributed CHF 233.3m, an increase of 0.9%, with strong growth in Europe offset by a decline in America. Mikron Group’s machining solutions business increased net sales by 1.2% to CHF 140.8m, which the company says is a good result given the difficult market conditions, particularly in Europe.

More information www.mikron.com