Industry News

Precision’s Global Vanguard

Machine Tool Influencers 2024

Mr B V Shyam, Managing Director, Blum Novotest Measuring & Testing Technology Pvt Ltd, Discusses Pioneering Precision Technology for Automotive, Machine Tool, Aerospace Sectors

Company Profile
Blum-Novotest – a global leader in technology and innovation in measuring and testing technology. A reliable partner to the global machine tool, automotive and aerospace industries.
Blum-Novotest offers outstanding, technologically advanced measuring and testing technology in three divisions. These include Measuring Components for the international machine tool industry, Measuring Machines for the automotive, supplier and machine tool industries and Test Engineering for the automotive, hydraulic and aerospace industries.

Company Name: Blum Novotest Measuring & Testing Technology Pvt Ltd
Year Established: 2011
Headquarters Location: Grünkraut, Germany
Number of Employees: 29
Website: www.blum-novotest.com

Influencer Profile

Name of Influencer: B V Shyam
Current Position- Managing Director
Years of Experience in the Industry: 30
Educational Background: AMIE

Industry Insights

Can you describe the key trends currently shaping the machine tool industry?
Automation and Robotics: There is a significant move towards integrating automation and robotics into CNC machining processes. This includes robotic loading and unloading of parts, automated tool changers, and even lights-out manufacturing where machines operate autonomously.

Additive Manufacturing Integration: Many CNC machine tool manufacturers are exploring or integrating additive manufacturing capabilities alongside traditional subtractive machining. This hybrid approach allows for more complex geometries and reduced material waste.

Customization and Flexibility: Customers are increasingly demanding machines that can be easily customized and adapted for specific manufacturing needs. Modular designs and flexible configurations are becoming more popular

What innovative technologies or solutions is your company implementing to stay ahead in the market?
Blum Novotest’s Form Control software represents a sophisticated tool for CNC machine tool users aiming to optimize their manufacturing processes through precise measurement and quality assurance capabilities. Its integration with CNC machines enables efficient, accurate, and real-time measurement, contributing to improved productivity and reduced manufacturing costs.

Measurement and Inspection: Form Control software is designed primarily for the measurement and inspection of geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T) on machined parts. It ensures that parts conform to specified geometrical requirements such as roundness, cylindricity, flatness, and perpendicularity.

The Blum LC50 Digilog serves as a vital tool in the machine tool industry, offering precise and reliable measurement capabilities essential for maintaining quality and efficiency in manufacturing processes. Its digital technology, combined with robust design and ease of use, makes it an asset for machining operations striving for accuracy and consistency in dimensional control.

How is your company addressing the challenges faced by the machine tool industry today?
Improved Accuracy: Ensures high precision and accuracy in measuring complex geometrical features.
Efficiency: Reduces inspection time and improves overall production efficiency by performing measurements directly on the CNC machine.
Quality Assurance: Enhances quality control processes by providing detailed measurement data and analysis.
Cost Savings: Minimizes scrap and rework costs by detecting dimensional deviations early in the manufacturing process.

What role does sustainability play in your manufacturing processes and strategies?
Environmental Impact: Manufacturing processes historically have significant environmental impacts, including energy consumption, waste generation, and emissions. Adopting sustainable practices helps reduce these impacts, minimizing carbon footprints and preserving natural resources.
Innovation and Efficiency: Pursuing sustainability encourages innovation in product design, manufacturing processes, and materials. This can lead to new market opportunities, improved product performance, and operational efficiencies.
Long-term Viability: Sustainable manufacturing strategies contribute to the long-term viability of businesses by ensuring they remain competitive in a world increasingly focused on environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility.

Future Outlook

What do you foresee as the major developments in the machine tool industry over the next five years?
Enhanced Data Analytics: There will be a greater emphasis on utilizing big data analytics and machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of machining data. This includes optimizing tool paths, predicting tool wear, improving part quality through real-time monitoring, and overall process optimization.

How is your company preparing for these future trends and challenges?
Blum Novotest’s future products are likely to build upon their existing strengths in precision metrology and quality control, while embracing technological advancements to address evolving industry demands for efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in manufacturing processes.

What advice would you give to emerging companies in the machine tool industry?
Understand Market Needs: Conduct thorough market research to understand customer needs, industry trends, and competitive landscape. Tailor your products and services to address specific pain points or emerging demands in the market.

Focus on Innovation: Differentiate yourself by focusing on innovation. Identify gaps or inefficiencies in current technologies or processes and develop solutions that offer significant improvements or unique capabilities. Invest in research and development to stay ahead of competitors.

Plan for Long-Term Growth: Develop a clear and realistic growth strategy with measurable objectives. Balance short-term goals with long-term vision, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability over time.

Machine Tool Influencers 2024
Operational Excellence: Focus on operational efficiency to optimize costs, streamline processes, and maximize productivity. Implement lean manufacturing principles and utilize data analytics to drive informed decision-making.

Personal Insights

What key qualities do you believe are essential for someone to be a successful leader in this industry?
Innovation and Technology Leadership: Leaders in the machine tool industry innovate continuously, introducing cutting-edge technologies and advancing capabilities in precision, automation, and connectivity. Staying ahead of technological trends and investing in research and development are crucial.

Quality and Precision: Maintaining high standards of quality and precision is non-negotiable. Industry leaders excel in producing machines that consistently deliver accurate results, meet stringent tolerances, and operate reliably over extended periods.

Customer-Centric Approach: Understanding and responding to customer needs is paramount. Leaders actively engage with customers to anticipate requirements, provide tailored solutions, and offer superior support throughout the product lifecycle.