ISMR March 2025 | Page 15

INDUSTRY NEWS

Bystronic wins Swiss Technology Award

Bystronic has won the Swiss Technology Award ( in the ‘ Industry Innovation ’ category ) with its new “ Intelligent Cutting Process ( ICP )” autonomy kit .
“ Numerous projects entered the competition , and we came out on top with our autonomous laser cutting machine . The Swiss Technology Award is Switzerland ’ s highest recognition for innovation and technology . Behind this award is the full innovative power of Bystronic ; the potential of artificial intelligence ( AI ) has been recognized to solve customer challenges . The aim is to optimise and automate the cutting process and therefore address key challenges in the metalworking market ,” said the Swiss sheet metal specialist .
“ Offering this solution , we help our customers to produce more sustainably , efficiently and costeffectively . With our new ‘ Intelligent Cutting Process ( ICP )’ feature , we offer a semi-autonomous machine and have successfully established the first applications on the market . To further increase the machine ’ s degree of autonomy , we are working on controlling other process parameters , in addition to speed . In the near future , we will make the product ready for series production ,” added Andreas Lüdi , Deputy Head of Pre- Development , Bystronic .
The Swiss Technology Award supports and promotes a culture of innovation . Every year , outstanding technology-based innovations and developments from start-ups , universities and established companies are honoured in three categories . The application period for the STA25 awards starts in spring 2025 . n
www
. open-i . swiss / en / swiss-technology-award
www . bystronic . com

Stainless steel comes under the spotlight

According to a recent report , the global market for stainless steel was valued at US $ 120.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US $ 157.4 billion by 2030 , growing at a CAGR of 4.6 % from 2024 to 2030 . The “ Stainless Steel - Global Strategic Business Report ” from Research and Markets . com valued the U . S . stainless steel market at US $ 32.5 billion in 2024 and forecasts China ’ s stainless steel market to grow at 7.5 % CAGR to reach US $ 32.2 billion by 2030 .
“ Growth in the stainless steel market is driven by several factors , including increasing demand for durable and corrosion-resistant materials across industries like construction , automotive and medical devices . Advances in alloy composition , manufacturing techniques and recycling processes have improved the performance , availability and sustainability of stainless steel , supporting broader adoption in diverse applications ,” commented the report .
“ The focus on infrastructure development , lightweight automotive components and hygienic food processing equipment has further fuelled demand , as manufacturers and builders seek reliable materials that offer long service life and minimal maintenance . Additionally , rising investments in construction projects , automotive manufacturing and healthcare infrastructure have contributed to market growth , encouraging the integration of stainless steel ,” it added .
According to the report , the flat stainlesssteel segment is expected to reach US $ 113.3- billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.4 %. The long stainless steel segment is also set to grow at 5.2 % CAGR over the forecast period .
Stainless steel is a versatile alloy known for its corrosion resistance , strength and durability . Composed primarily of iron , chromium , nickel and other elements , stainless steel offers various grades and finishes to meet specific requirements , including resistance to heat , moisture and chemical exposure .
Key types include austenitic , ferritic , martensitic and duplex stainless steel .
“ Austenitic stainless steel holds the largest market share due to its wide-ranging applications in kitchenware , construction and medical devices . Grades cover 200 , 300 , 400 series and others , with the 300 series representing a significant segment driven by its superior corrosion resistance and weldability ,” outlined the report .
“ Applications span construction ; automotive ; consumer goods ; medical devices and industrial machinery , with construction leading the market as it uses stainless steel for structural frameworks , railings and facades ,” concluded the report . n
www . researchandmarkets . com
Stainless steel exhaust pipes for the automotive industry .
Stainless steel storage tanks .
Image : VLB Group .
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