PRODUCT REVIEWS
Automation underpins sheet metal future
“ The sheet metal processing industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Driven by shifting global supply chains, increasing labour shortages, stronger competition and rising customer expectations, manufacturers are moving away from isolated production equipment towards fully connected and automated production environments,” commented Swiss sheet metal specialist, Bystronic.
Automation is no longer limited to large industrial groups. Small and medium-sized manufacturers increasingly view it as a prerequisite for remaining competitive. Rising labour costs and growing component complexity are encouraging companies to digitalise and network their operations. Modular automation concepts make implementation more accessible by allowing businesses to automate gradually.
Bystronic is addressing this development with scalable solutions designed for every stage of automation.
“ Entry-level users can begin with automated loading systems combined with laser cutting technology to reduce manual handling. Midrange solutions further improve material flow, machine utilisation and productivity through automated loading and unloading processes.
Automated loading and unloading combined with an intelligent material storage system, complementing flatbed laser cutter operations.
More advanced configurations integrate storage towers, sorting systems and intelligent material handling, enabling highly autonomous production with minimal operator involvement and, when required, continuous around-theclock operation,” it told ISMR.
Turning data into performance
However, automation alone does not create maximum value. The real benefits emerge when machines, processes and data are connected.
“ Our BySoft Suite provides end-to-end digital process management, covering everything from quotation generation and production planning to delivery and invoicing. Its open architecture allows integration with existing ERP systems and third-party machinery, creating a centralised data environment that improves transparency, efficiency and real-time decision-making,” it added.
Service is also evolving. Predictive maintenance uses machine data to identify potential issues before failures occur, reducing downtime and improving operational reliability. Together, automation, software and proactive service form an integrated production ecosystem.
“ Today, automation technologies such as robotics, CNC systems and digitally connected manufacturing cells are reshaping the industry. Their growing adoption reflects the need for greater precision, shorter lead times, higher productivity and more stable, repeatable processes,” explained Bystronic.
“ The conclusion is clear: long-term success in sheet metal processing depends not on individual machines, but on the seamless interaction of equipment, automation, software and service. Companies that embrace this system-oriented approach gain higher productivity, improved quality and greater flexibility,” it concluded.
Meet Bystronic at EuroBLECH 2026 in Hanover( Germany) on stand B66 in Hall 12. n
www
. bystronic. com
Roll forming goes digital at EuroBLECH
From 20-23 October 2026, EuroBLECH in Hanover will once again open its doors to the international sheet metal community – and data M Sheet Metal Solutions GmbH will be there to meet customers and prospects from around the world. The company has been part of this leading sheet metal trade show since 1988, when it first exhibited at“ Blech 88” in Essen, and has built strong ties with the industry ever since. data M SMS supports its customers in roll form tooling design, simulation software and engineering services. As the developer of COPRA ® RF and COPRA ® FEA RF, it offers leading CAE software for the design and simulation of roll-formed profiles and tubes. The portfolio is complemented by intelligent sensor and measurement technology; key building blocks for digitalisation in roll forming. By consistently connecting its own products with new, data-driven technologies, data M SMS supports its customers on their journey towards the“ Smart Factory”.
Above: Tool design with COPRA ® RF and high-end forming simulation with COPRA ® FEA RF: two closely integrated systems.
“ This year, we will showcase our strength as a research and developmentdriven company on the joint stand of the EFB( European Research Association for Sheet Metal Working) in Hall 11( stand C15) at EuroBLECH. Alongside our software solutions for design and simulation, we will also highlight our training and consultancy services delivered by our experienced engineers, as well as our development services( from individual projects to complete R & D engagements),” it said.
The company will also announce new highlights across its software programs at EuroBLECH 2026— details will be revealed live on the stand.
Roll forming is a highly efficient and energy-saving technology for the production of profiles with complex cross-section geometries out of sheetmetal with thicknesses from fractions of a millimetre up to 16mm- in some cases, even higher.
“ Usually, various steel alloys and aluminium are manufactured; more recently, high-strength to ultra-high-strength steels and fibre composite materials can also be formed. In addition to the production of standard profiles, such as U-, angle-, C-, Z- or hat profiles, many companies specialise in the manufacturing of special profiles. These are individually designed and manufactured profile shapes, according to customer requirements,” it concluded. n
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72 | ismr. net | ISMR September 2026