20 September, 2024AMB 2024, one of the most important international exhibitions in the metalworking sector, closed its doors on 14 September in Stuttgart, Germany, after five days of intense activity. The event brought together 65,584 professionals from 78 countries, consolidating its position as a key forum for the exchange of ideas, innovation and networking in the metal fabrication industry.
AFM Cluster had an outstanding participation, accompanying 25 Spanish companies from the sector. The presence of these companies at AMB 2024 underlines the key role that Spain plays in the field of advanced manufacturing and metallurgy at international level. In addition, the cluster organised a technical trade mission that included visits to relevant companies in the Stuttgart region, thus strengthening commercial ties and exploring opportunities for technological collaboration in one of the most important industrial centres in Europe.
Innovation and technology at the heart of AMB 2024The central theme of AMB 2024 was Industry 4.0, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI), collaborative robotics and smart machine networks. Participating companies, including those represented by AFM Cluster, had the opportunity to showcase their advances in these fields, presenting solutions that combine advanced automation with precision tools to improve the efficiency and sustainability of manufacturing processes.
One of the attractions was the SmartFactory area, where live demonstrations of production with interconnected machines took place. Through open interfaces, such as the UMATI (Universal Machine Technology Interface) initiative, attendees were able to see how emerging technologies are transforming the metalworking industry, integrating machines and systems to optimise industrial performance.
Recognition of excellence at the AMBInnovation was rewarded on several fronts during the show, most notably at the AMB Awards, where outstanding companies received awards for their contributions to the advancement of metalworking. In the field of software and digitisation, goCAD GmbH was recognised for its innovative software, while Liquidtool Systems AG excelled in components and operating materials. In the category of precision tools, Hainbuch GmbH was honoured, and in machine tools, Sodick Deutschland GmbH was honoured. In addition, a Special Sustainability Award, highlighting the industry's commitment to more responsible practices, was awarded to Vito AG and Ceratizit S.A.
Startups and emerging innovationAMB 2024 also gave space to startups, with events such as the ‘Pretzels “n” Pitches’, which allowed young innovators to present their pioneering solutions for metal machining. Tetralytix GmbH, with its simulation software, and plasmotion GmbH, which developed an automated polishing technology combining plasma physics and electrochemistry, were among the winners, underlining the importance of emerging talent in the evolution of the sector.
AFM Cluster's participation in AMB 2024 was strategic not only to consolidate the presence of Spanish companies at a global benchmark event, but also to facilitate access to new markets and technological trends. The technical mission carried out in Stuttgart has allowed the cluster companies to deepen their knowledge of best practices and establish valuable connections with key players in the European industry.
The fair has once again demonstrated the importance of AMB as a crucial international forum for dialogue and innovation in challenging times for the global economy. AFM Cluster, with its commitment to internationalisation and technological innovation, continues to support Spanish companies in the sector to compete on the global stage.
