FACE TO FACE
solution ; much depends upon the application . There are many applications where plasma is the better choice , from a cost perspective , if you look at total lifecycle . So , it really does come down to making the right cutting choice for the application ,” explained André Rombouts .
“ This is one of the reasons why the connection we have with our partners is so important ; the cutting source , machine and software is a combined solution . We are continuously exploring applications , with our partners , for plasma cutting . Our combined expertise on projects could reach , for example , to applications for artificial intelligence or other technologies ,” he continued .
He highlighted the key role that software plays in the cutting process , and the shift in how data is collected to drive continuous
Below from top : Powermax45 SYNC , ProNest ® software is designed to maximize productivity and minimize waste . and the OMAX ® OptiMAX ® waterjet cutting system .
The ProtoMAX ® waterjet cutting system .
improvement of the cutting process as digitalisation increases in sheet metal cutting markets .
“ Our software collects useful data which determines how a user can get the best from his machine and optimise his operations . We are continuously developing our software so that we can improve cut quality , for example , or cutting speed . Leftovers from the cut should be minimised , which is why we have nesting solutions to make sure that users can get the most parts out of a sheet of metal . Additionally , energy costs must be reduced . Sustainability is a key priority ,” commented André Rombouts .
An eye on markets improvement in a manufacturing process could help users to drive down the total cost of ownership . It uses technology to radically simplify processes , meaning mechanical design and full automation of the process centre for customers , as well as machine monitoring .
“ Despite the challenges in the current global economic climate , we have managed to stay on course and achieve our goals . Being an Associate-owned company ( we do not have to satisfy shareholders ) means that we can march forward with speed and purpose . Of course , we adjust our strategy to market developments , but always in concert with our partners ,” André Rombouts told ISMR .
“ At the end of 2023 , our belief was that 2024 would be an easier year . However , with all the political upheavals ( like wars , conflicts and elections ), it has been a difficult year for everyone amid a lot of change in global markets . We hope that , in 2025 , economies will begin to improve once more in different markets and sectors . Fundamentally , there is a lot of money in the market but uncertainty affects investment ( and we have seen that pattern this year ). Interest rates and energy costs contribute to this ,” he added .
He pointed to changes in key European economies , such as Germany , which have affected industrial investment . However , he
With its customers facing global challenges from the combination of inflation , high interest rates , economic uncertainty from regional conflicts and labour shortages , Hypertherm Associates aims to make it easy as possible for operators to use its equipment , as well as reduce their labour and training costs . For example , a 2 % incremental
Hypertherm Associates has established ambitious environmental impact reduction strategies for waste , energy and carbon emissions to be achieved by 2030
does see opportunities in specific market sectors such as defence , the hydrogen industry and automotive markets ( with the move to electric technologies ). The company is closely following these movements to ensure that it provides the right equipment to meet market requirements .
“ European markets have been facing more challenges than markets in the U . S . The outcome of the November 2024 election in the United States will impact manufacturing markets . Will we see more market protectionism in the future ? The conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East are also factors that affect market confidence . Will these escalate ?” mused Rombouts .
He also highlighted Hypertherm Associates ’ ‘ think global , act local ’ strategy that it applies in different regions of the world .
“ Because we are a global company , we have a different approach to certain markets and specific regional sectors . We employ a more targeted approach to end users and markets ,” he said .
54 | ismr . net | ISMR December 2024 / January 2025