GrindingHub 2024 officially opened in Stuttgart, marking its second iteration as the leading trade fair for grinding technology. “This event has quickly established itself as the premier meeting place for the grinding technology community,” said Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of the VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association), the event’s organizer.
The grinding technology sector, though niche, is vital to metalworking processes. Dr. Heering expressed satisfaction in bringing together international market leaders for an impressive showcase aimed at trade visitors.
The numbers for GrindingHub are notable: around 490 exhibitors from over 30 countries, with more than half from abroad, are occupying roughly 41,500 gross square meters spread across four halls—an increase from the previous three. The product range now spans over 40 sectors, indicating growth in all key metrics. “We are successfully meeting our goal of showcasing the entire grinding process chain,” Heering added.
Dr. Patrick Rapp, State Secretary in the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism, attended the opening and toured the exhibits. He praised the broad array of new developments on display, which aim to expedite and simplify critical production processes.
GrindingHub’s Role in Boosting Investment
Germany remains a major player in the grinding technology sector, both as a supplier and a customer. Last year, the country saw strong performance with production valued at EUR 1.1 billion and a growth of 14%. Consumption rose by 10%, and exports and imports increased by 15% and 11%, respectively. Despite a decline in orders since early 2023, there are early signs of potential stabilization and recovery.
Heering emphasized that the innovations presented at GrindingHub could stimulate investment by enhancing efficiency for users. This sentiment was echoed by Björn Köbler and Armin Ranzenberger, managing directors at Köbler Zerspan- und Rundschleiftechnik GmbH, who highlighted the importance of automation, machine learning, and AI in their operations. They view GrindingHub as an ideal venue for gaining new ideas.
High-Level Expertise and Innovation
Beyond the exhibitors’ displays, GrindingHub offers a rich supporting program. The GrindingSolution Park Science in Hall 10 features five institutes presenting their latest research projects, aiming to transition these innovations from the lab to industrial practice. Topics include networking, new materials, process reliability, machine learning, sustainable production, and innovative tool concepts.
The umati (universal machine technology interface) stand in Hall 9 is a key point for visitors interested in OPC UA in grinding technology, promoting seamless factory communication. The Start-up Hub in Hall 7 showcases new machine concepts, AI-based maintenance software, innovative diamond coatings, and high-precision cutting edge preparation.
Promoting Skills and Knowledge
A highlight of the event is the “Grinder of the Year” competition, taking place on May 16. Five finalists from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland will demonstrate their skills live. “This competition is our contribution to addressing the skills shortage in the industry,” said Heering. He emphasized the need to communicate the varied and technically challenging nature of jobs in grinding technology.
The event also features Forum presentations in Hall 10, offering a wealth of new ideas and covering current trends in the industry. “The Forum is a treasure trove of new ideas,” Heering concluded. GrindingHub 2024 promises to be a pivotal event, driving innovation, investment, and growth in the grinding technology sector.
