ITPLAST Giugno/Luglio 2026 | Página 9

UNION [ on cover ]

Union Officine Meccaniche S. p. A. Via 1 ° Maggio 12 / 14 20028 S. Vittore Olona( MI)- Italy Phone: + 39 0331 519300 Fax: + 39 0331 518370 web site: www. unionextrusion. it
Tandem extrusion system
The Union production department
CHINA AND TECHNOLOGICAL COMPETITION Another key element to be considered in the global scenario is the evolution of the Chinese industry. In recent years, the country has made significant strides in developing advanced technologies, supported by hefty investments in research and a growing availability of engineering skills. This evolution, Passoni states, is affecting above all high-tech sectors such as electronics, semiconductors and batteries, where highly specialised extrusion lines are in demand. In these areas, the focus is on complex materials and precision applications, which require sophisticated equipment and advanced design skills.
THE HUMAN FACTOR IS STILL STRATEGIC Alongside market dynamics and international competition, one of the most significant issues for the European manufacturing industry remains the availability of qualified personnel. The shortage of specialised technicians— assemblers, turning and milling machinery operators, test specialists and designers— currently represents a major obstacle to the growth of companies in the plastics sector. Passoni emphasises that the lack of technical skills is not unique to Italy but is affecting many industrialised countries, making the role of training and in-house transfer of know-how increasingly important.
INVESTMENTS AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT Against this challenging backdrop, Union continues its growth efforts focusing on new investments in infrastructure and production capacity. Current projects include expanding the facilities dedicated to the production and testing of large-scale systems, particularly at its subsidiary Tecom, which specialises in blown film lines. The goal is to have facilities high enough to allow for complete system testing before delivery to customers. This operating model makes it possible to perform in-depth testing and technical demonstrations directly in-house, improving service quality and the international visibility of the technologies developed.
Italian technology plast / June-July 2026
www. plastmagazine. it
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