“Deploying the Olis app on an inexpensive Android tablet is the easiest way to add diagnostics capabilities to our machines,” says Josh Mayse, VP and co-founder of Mid Atlantic Machinery. “Any new order moving forward will include Olis. We no longer need to invest in industrial PCs or any additional edge computing to realize all the benefits of real-time diagnostics and error recovery.”

Specifically for press brake applications, Mid Atlantic now provides the first year’s license for the Olis app, along with the tripod, camera and all necessary equipment, at no additional upfront cost. 

Fast, Efficient and Smart Press Brakes

Trumpf demonstrated the capabilities of smart, connected, automated manufacturing by running live production with real production parts. And, it presented a completely redesigned version of its TruBend 3000 bending-machine series—press brakes designed to operate quickly and precisely, be easy to program and save energy. In addition, it reduces machine throughput time by around 40% compared to the previous 3000-series machines. Press force ranges from 93 to 253.5 tons; bending length, 6.5 to 13 ft. 

To ensure good part quality, Trumpf has integrated its ACB Laser automatic angle-measuring system into the new press brakes, consisting of a camera and laser sensors to measure the bend angle of the part before each bending process. If the angle does not match the value stored in the software, the press beam automatically changes its position until achieving the desired angle. 

Also highlighted: Trumpf’s TecZone Bend offline-programming software. Users simply upload the 2D or 3D model of the part into the software and within a second, the correct bending sequence and the appropriate tools are displayed on the monitor, including collision monitoring. 

Lastly, with the speed-controlled On-Demand Servo Drive, the press brake’s motor only switches on during the bending process, reportedly reducing energy consumption by 30% compared to a hydraulic drive. 

During our booth visit, we learned that as part of a customer-focused “local for local” initiative, Trumpf plans to add a new production line in Farmington, CT, to manufacture TruBend 3000 machines beginning in the summer of 2026. 

Paperless Digital Workflow for Sheet Metal Processes

Hexagon announced a new version of its Paperless Traveller, specifically for sheet metal fabrication. Designed to empower operators with real-time digital workflows that replace paper travelers, streamline production and improve quality, this mobile-based solution gives a look at how Hexagon is working to eliminate paper-based processes and connect operators with live instructions, defect/recut reporting and production status updates, according to company officials.

Available early in 2026, this digital suite of apps, powered by Nexus Connected Worker, provides step-by-step instructions and stays up to date with all relevant ERP and engineering data so that manufacturing processes are adhered to and direct workers have what they need to execute processes correctly. Paperless Travellers are digital document packages that direct a product through production and processing, creating flexible access to manufacturing information needed to produce sheet metal products that adhere to requirements. Think digital job information and step-by-step instructions that support shop-floor digitalization—no need for traveling paper documents.

Key benefits:

• Provides shop-floor teams with simple mobile access to job instructions, nesting and bending workflows, and production data
• Real-time defect tracking and instant recut lists to prevent costly rework and delays
• Connected, secure cloud-based platform with iOS, Android, and web-app support
• Simple onboarding and subscription pricing designed for sheet-metal fabricators of all sizes
• Intuitive interface tailored for sheet metal-process operators, thus minimizing training time and improving adoption.

Robust, Affordable Fiber-Laser Cutting

Bystronic introduced its ByCut Eco laser cutting machines, calling them “simple, robust and affordable,” and aimed at business owners looking to get started in laser cutting.

“Companies that want to get started in laser cutting often need, in an initial phase, a machine that is high in quality and durable while delivering high cutting quality but without the high price,” officials say. “Simplicity in operation, performance and robustness are further criteria that a laser cutting system must fulfill.”

Available in two models—ByCut Eco 3015 and ByCut Eco 4020 and available from 3 to 20 kW—the machines promise to deliver comparatively low operating costs and low maintenance needs. And, fabricators can customize their machines by selecting from a variety of options, including the AI-driven Parameter Wizard that automatically generates the correct parameters to help ensure optimum cut quality.   

In addition, for sheet metal forming Bystronic debuted the Xpert Pro “smart” press brake, in three models: the Classic for job shops with small batch sizes or for prototyping; the Performance model, for medium-sized companies and larger product runs; and Dynamic, providing bending speed to ¾ in./sec. and for batch sizes of 1000 pieces or more. Capacity of the brakes ranges from 110 to 320 tons, for bending material to 5/8 in. thick; bending length, 10 or 13 ft.

Mini Flap Discs Deburr, Blend and Finish in Hard-to-Reach Areas

Saint-Gobain Abrasives debuted 2- and 3-in.-dia. “mini” versions as part of its Norton Vortex Rapid Prep non-woven flap-disc line. These mini discs are designed to provide a practical solution from roughing to finishing in one operation for difficult-to-reach, uneven areas. The long-lasting discs produce significantly increased cutting rates and smear-free finishes, with Norton Vortex agglomerated grain technology enabling the cutting power of a coarser grit while producing a finer finish, according to company officials, who note that the discs provide forgiveness and reduced vibration on uneven surfaces.

Ideal for light blending, stripping, edge breaking and surface-preparation applications, Norton non-woven flap discs feature 3D non-woven abrasive layers, which reportedly ensure uniform finishing with consistently low surface-finish Ra. In addition, multiple layers of surface-conditioning material provide added life, meaning fewer disc changes. The discs also feature Norton proprietary Clean Bond resin technology for smear-free finishes, even on high-nickel-content alloys, and reduced loading when cutting aluminum and other softer materials. And, Norton recommends the  flap discs for cleaning, light deburring and finishing of gas-tungsten-arc-welded seams on stainless steel.

Robotic Bend Cell, Value-Packed Tube Laser

The BLM booth featured its new ProBend HBS II robotic bending cell and the LT6 entry-level tube laser. The ProBend HBS II customizable bend cell features an integrated sheet-following system that offers real-time synchronization between the robot and the press brake and adjusts movements dynamically to ensure precise bends and minimize scrap or defects.

With the LT6, BLM expands its tube-laser offering by providing a lightweight, entry-level model offering full 3D-cutting capabilities—high-performance features in a compact machine with a small footprint and at a relatively low entry cost, company officials note. The LT6 can cut tubes from 0.5 to 6-in. dia. and weighing as much as 12 lb./ft. The machine also includes an automated thread-insert feature, ideal for fabricators working with tube walls too thin for traditional tapping. 

Extended-Reach Cobot with Coordinated Multi-Axis Motion for Complex Tasks

Universal Robots (UR) unveiled the UR8 Long, an extended-reach cobot for tackling demanding and space-constrained automation tasks. The cobot’s extended reach combined with coordinated multi-axis motion allows for complex applications, such as complex weldments requiring consistent quality—it reportedly was designed with collaborative welding in mind. Motion-performance optimization also delivers smoother movements at maximum speed to enhance tasks such as fast-paced bin picking. 

With the same 1750-mm reach as UR’s UR20 cobot and a significantly slimmer profile, UR8 Long combines reach, stability and precision in a rugged, compact, lightweight form, and features an 8-kg payload. This makes it ideal for space-constrained setups and industrial tasks, from complex weldments to precision dunnage picking and flexible multi-point inspections, according to UR officials.  

The UR8 Long features advanced technology for synchronized robot motion, intuitive programming and inverted mounting. It runs with both PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X, UR’s software platforms, and can be extended with MotionPlus, UR’s new advanced motion-control technology that allows for ease of integration with linear-axis and rotary positioners as well as rotary turntables for precise control, smooth trajectories and consistent accuracy.   

Combined with UR’s upgraded free-drive capabilities, users can guide the arm manually with precision and ease—making lead-to-teach programming more intuitive and enabling rapid, ergonomic setup even on complex parts, all without the need for layered interfaces or external tools. UR8 Long’s lighter mass—30% less than the UR20—and compact wrist design also makes it ideal for mounting on gantries, rails or overhead systems, where external axes can operate more efficiently. 

Robot Vision System Elevates Bending Automation

Salvagnini, as part of its emphasis at FABTECH on optimizing job-shop flexibility and connected systems, showcased its RVS (Robot Vision System), designed to help automate the intermediate steps of part recognition, handling and programming. RVS promises to minimize or eliminate the need for human intervention in sheet metal processing, and simplify part-identification operations, making the process more intuitive and reducing the risk of errors.

Thanks to its integration with Salvagnini’s P-Robot for panel-bender tending, RVS enables the handling of components that have complex geometries or that cannot be centered with traditional gravity-centering devices. RVS can recognize parts, even in unordered stacks; distinguish individual sheets; identify pallets and stacks without the need for physical references; and share information in real time with the panel bender and the robot.

Pacific Press Launches New Low-Tonnage Press Brakes

Pacific Press Technologies debuted a new low-tonnage press brake, dubbed by company officials as a next-generation machine with features to optimize efficiency and operator safety.  Among these features: advanced tooling add-ons, and enhanced safety mechanisms including foot switches and two-hand run controls as standard, and optional light curtains and laser-safety systems. Also included is a 2D Delem control with 18.5-in. screen, which provides bend-sequence calculation and crowning control (using Wilson Tool equipment), among other features; and a G24-series Autogauge gauging system, with an optional programmable R axis to adjust gauge-bar height.

The press brakes use a nonproprietary hydraulic system with a high-speed power unit from Hawe Hydraulik. The machines are available in eight models from 110 to 230 tons and 8- to 10-in. stroke. Other specs: 10- or 12-ft. overall length; open height, 13 or 15 in.; throat depth, 7 or 8 in.; forming speed, 27 in./min.; return rate, 300 in./min.

Battery-Powered Welding Machine Saves Setup Time

Miller Electric Mfg. LLC has launched the Venture 150 S, a swappable-battery-powered shielded-metal/tungsten-metal-arc welding machine designed to enhance productivity and mobility for welders working in remote and challenging environments.

The machine reportedly can save as many as 250 hr./yr. by significantly reducing setup time—eliminating the average of 150 hr. spent running leads and cutting an additional 100 hr. lost to downtime from tripped breakers, according to company officials. Whether welding in tight spaces, remote locations or areas with limited access to power, the small, lightweight and swappable batteries ensure that welders can perform their tasks no matter their locations. Key benefits include time savings via rapid setup, compact design and reliable output—100% duty cycle at maximum output.

Updated Sheet Metal-Fabricating Software Streamlines Shop-Floor Operations

Lantek has released v45 of its Lantek Expert sheet metal-fabricating software, designed to enhance part-handling and shop-floor efficiency, and incorporating a new feature that allows users to set custom nesting priorities based on operational needs.

The latest Nesting by Attribute tool enables manufacturers to group and organize parts on sheet metal based on selected criteria, thus simplifying part identification and improving operator workflow, according to company officials. Parts from the same job or production stage can be color-coded, separated by offset zones or even divided by visible lines, making them easier to identify and remove.

“The latest Nesting by Attribute tool is user friendly, helping machine operators quickly identify which parts belong to which job,” summarizes Adam Ball, Lantek commercial director. “With today’s high-speed laser cutting machines, shop-floor operators often struggle to sort cut parts quickly enough. Grouping parts from different jobs on a single sheet sometimes can disrupt the production flow if the parts require different post-processing steps. This new feature helps to avoid that, reduce errors and save time.”

And, users now clearly can define nesting priorities using any attributes stored in Lantek Expert or Lantek MES, such as delivery deadlines, follow-up processes, container type, associated job orders or assemblies. During nesting, parts matching the selected properties are prioritized, while others are placed in the remaining spaces.

“In some cases,” Ball says, “full material optimization is ideal, but in other cases, it’s far more practical to nest in a way that supports faster and more efficient part handling on the shop floor.”

Communication Devices for Industrial Environments

Relay Inc. showcased its frontline-communication platform featuring cloud-connected units that combine advanced hardware with intelligent software to provide crystal-clear audio, real-time language translation, connectivity and built-in safety alerts with location tracking. The platform is designed to replace typical industrial-radio units and function reliably through walls and elevators, and over long distances.

Designed for resilience, Relay and its simple user interface utilizes multiple cell networks simultaneously, delivering a redundant connection for consistent communication. And, Relay’s audio system reportedly delivers loud, clear sound using dual speakers and advanced microphone technology—ideal for high-noise areas. Long-lasting 24-plus-hr. battery life facilitates continuous use, keeping operations running smoothly across multiple shifts.

Safety features include custom safety codes (Plant Evacuation, Fire, Ammonia Leak, Shelter-in-Place, etc.), panic buttons and, coming soon, man-down alerts. And, Relay’s TeamTranslate technology enables real-time translation, allowing team members to communicate clearly, no matter what language they speak.

Newly released, Relay’s Fleet Shield program provides a full device replacement at no cost, shipped the next day, even prior to users sending an old unit back. Relay proactively monitors device health to preemptively replace units before they can cause a slowdown. With Fleet Shield, users can renew service plans at a discount.

Video Weld Inspection Ideal for Automotive Applications

Vitronic showcased its zero-defect vision technology for weld inspection, paired with Lincoln Electric welding technology and a Kuka Robots industrial robot for fully integrated inline inspection. The system takes in welding data and information from the robot, then merges it to give users the data points they need to run their robotic-welding operations. Vitronic considers this an ideal solution in automotive applications, where the company has logged a wealth of experience. Its Viro WSI (weld-seam inspection) system stores the results of all seam and component inspections in an integrated database. The data enable users to immediately determine any required action, with a growing database allowing for knowledgeable optimization efforts.  MF

 

See also: Pacific Press/Multipress, Inc., Miller Electric Mfg. Co., TRUMPF Inc., Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, Mid Atlantic Machinery Inc.

Technologies: CNC Punching, Coil and Sheet Handling, Cutting

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