Stay abreast of industry trends, gain insight into the latest technologies at Machine Tools Africa 2024

Plan your trip to South Africa’s only metalworking related exhibition.

Stay abreast of industry trends, gain insight into the latest technologies, and see hundreds of new products and innovations on display at the world-class Machine Tools Africa 2024 exhibition, taking place from 21 to 24 May 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec.

Industry leaders, innovators and industry stakeholders will be heading to this year’s Machine Tools Africa exhibition to meet with local industry suppliers and their international manufacturing partners. There will be a wide range of products on show, from machine tools and CNC machinery to 3D printing, control systems, robotics, design, accessories and more. The latest advanced technology, software, automation, and industry 5.0, will be making a strong appearance at the show.

Machine Tools Africa is an event by the Machine Tool Merchants’ Association of South Africa (MTMA) in partnership with Specialised Exhibitions, organisers of the event.

Mike Lee, Chairperson of MTMA, says that the industry is really excited about this year’s Machine Tools Africa exhibition with exhibitors looking forward to showcasing their latest innovations and cutting-edge developments across the machine tool and related industries. “Over the past couple of years, imports have gone from strength to strength and we’ll have the very latest in machine tool technology on display from all over the world for our customers to see. Live demonstrations of the machinery will highlight the advantages of this new technology and customers can benefit from the expert advice available from the technical specialists on the stands.”

Charlene Hefer, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions, is also excited about the show, stating: “We’re thrilled to have such strong industry support for Machine Tools Africa, a show which embraces innovation, collaboration and opportunity in the world of engineering and manufacturing. The event is putting the spotlight on leading industry suppliers’ ground-breaking innovation and technology and we’re expecting thousands of visitors from across South Africa and neighbouring African countries to converge at the exhibition.”

Education, learning and World Skills competition
With education and skills development remaining central to industry, Sol-Tech will be forming part of the Machine Tools Africa exhibition for the first time. Sol-Tech is a privately registered vocational training college that offers world-class training in all of the most important trades. More than 3 500 students have acquired their Red Seal qualifications.

“Sol-Tech is extremely proud of its students. Hard work, dedication and discipline forms part of their student journey. We aim to not only equip them with an excellent qualification, but to also create an opportunity to acquire soft skills while they study at Sol-Tech,” says Paul van Deventer, managing director of Sol-Tech. According to Chantal Swart, marketing manager of Sol-Tech, visitors to Machine Tools Africa can look forward to an exciting Sol-Tech stand filled with activities and some of Sol-Tech’s own students showcasing their skills on various equipment.

WorldSkills South Africa is hosting a local competition at Machine Tools Africa. Showcasing the skills and excellence of the competitors during the four days, the overall winners will be announced on the final show day. A team of local and international judges will be adjudicating the competition.

Expertise shared at free-to-attend seminars
Visitors to the show can also increase their own industry knowledge by attending the free-to-attend seminars, hosted by the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE). During the four show days, industry professionals will be sharing their expertise across a wide range of topics aligned with the show’s theme days: Safety, Sustainability, Skills, and South African Day.

Amongst the speakers at the event, Chris Coetzee, director and owner of OHSS Consulting, will be looking into the world of a systems approach to Occupational Health & Safety Procedures with a focus on developing safe behaviours, working environments, and monitoring strategies, that become the frontline of Risk Management.

Stephan du Toit, Technical Director at Water Solutions and Innovations will be talking about Evaporator Technology. One of the key sustainability challenges of various machining processes is the treatment of the coolant / water waste. Water Solutions and Innovations has successfully researched and developed the Evaporator technology in South Africa. The locally produced Evaporator has already been successfully implemented at various EOM’s and Tier 1 suppliers both in South Africa and globally.

The talk presented by Dr Devon Hagedorn-Hansen, Managing Director of HH Industries and Multitrade 3D Systems, will highlight the transformative role of Additive Manufacturing (AM) in Africa and introducing the different AM technologies and how the various technologies are reshaping the continent’s industrial landscape, driving innovation, and propelling economic development.

Machine Tools Africa is supported by the South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC), the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE), and the Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (SASSDA).

Specialised Exhibitions is a division of Montgomery Group. For more information, visit the Machine Tools Africa website www.machinetoolsafrica.co.za

Opening times
Machine Tools Africa 2020 will take place from Tuesday 21 May 2024 until Friday 24 May 2024 and will be open from 09h00 to 17h00.

Entrance ticket
A free entrance ticket is in this issue of Metalworking News. If more than one of you are attending from your company you can register in advance on the Machine Tools Africa 2024 website.

https://tickets.tixsa.co.za/reservation/2b698018db0dfc217138667302fc1f82e4a7fefb

Snapshot of the Machine Tools Africa 2024 exhibitors
The following is a selection of some of the exhibitors taking part and a description of what you can expect to see on their stands.

Amada (UK) Johannesburg Branch Hall 6 Stand A17

As one of the market leaders in the supply and support of state-of-the-art machinery to the South African market for over 35 years, Amada is once again proud to demonstrate technology that not only provides the total solution, but also gives a technological advantage with total peace of mind.

The 2024 Machine Tool Show will see the latest in fibre laser technology, which incorporates the latest variable beam technology (LBC) together with an Amada built power source to guarantee repeatability and reliability. With machines only being as efficient as the operator, Amada will couple this with an automatic sheet manipulation system – MPL, which ultimately reduces the human intervention and ensures longer, uninterrupted and unmanned production.

To complement the laser technology on show, Amada will also demonstrate the new Amada Brevis 3kW fibre laser. This compact laser, which has a very small foot print, is ideal for small batch and quick changeover production. The bending side of the offering will incorporate the new electric servo bender for small part / high-speed bending, the mid-range 7-axis electric bender.

To show the simplicity and ease of machine integration, Amada will be holding software demonstrations throughout each day.

BMG Bearing Man Group Hall 6 Stand F10

BMG’s stand will showcase the company’s comprehensive range of quality branded tools and equipment, which has been carefully selected by specialists, to meet the exact requirements of customers in diverse sectors.

“This specialised machine tools exhibition embraces innovation in engineering and manufacturing and is the perfect forum for the collaboration of industry stakeholders, suppliers and manufacturing companies. “This event provides exhibitors the opportunity to present products and services to key customers looking to invest in the latest technologies and industry trends,” says Stephen Allport, Strategic Support – Procurement, Tools & Equipment, BMG.

“As key players in the tools and equipment sector, the BMG team is proud to showcase our broad product offering that is geared to making tasks in every industry safer and more efficient.”

“BMG will be demonstrating the Mitutoyo LH-600FG digital 2D high accuracy linear height gauge, with a best in-class accuracy of ±1.1µm over 600mm. This machine’s easy operation through touch screen navigation, makes it suitable for beginners.”

“We will be launching the new upgraded Mitutoyo QuantuMike micrometer in 0-25mm, 25-50mm, 50-75mm and 75-100mm, with the 0-25mm and 25-50mm sizes at an accuracy of ±1.0µm. These two micrometers are classified as Class 1, in terms of the recently revised ISO 3611:2024 specification. All QuantuMike devices are capable of data capture to a PC through SPC cables or Bluetooth, which is currently in final development.”

“The patented digital 3D taster from Haff & Schneider will also be introduced at the show. This technology makes 3-dimensional setting of the zero point on CNC machines easy and more accurate, without having to add costly point references.”

New metal marking tools have recently been launched by Curv-o-Mark, that makes pipe and structural steel marking easier. The new PipePro magnetic range, which enables pipe workers to have a hands-free approach to layout work, includes standard and jumbo centering heads with an adjustable bubble protractor, as well as a spirit level adjustable protractor dial with magnetic base. The pipe flange alignment with a bubble vial saves valuable fit-up time, providing up to 50% greater efficiency.

BMG’s Tools & Equipment division’s range includes machine tools with cutting accessories, welding, marking tool accessories, abrasives, cutting and re-working tools, as well as precision measuring, marking and testing equipment.

The company’s team of specialists supports these products with a technical support service from the company’s extensive branch network throughout Southern Africa.

BMG, which celebrates 50 years of business this year, is a complete process solutions provider to all sectors of industry, which means customers can access all essential quality branded engineering components, technical services and support from one reliable supplier.

Specialist BMG divisions comprise Bearings, Seals and Gaskets, Power Transmission, Drives and Motors, Materials Handling, Tools & Fasteners, Hydraulics, Filtration, Lubrication and Field Services.

Bodor Hall 6 Stand B6

Taking centre stage on the Bodor stand, represented by Integral Machine Tools, will be the Bodor P4 series all-around sheet metal fibre laser cutting machine. The Bodor P4 fibre laser, with a working area of 4 000mm by 2 000mm, comes with a power source of 60 000W / 30 000W / 24 000W / 12 000W / 6 000W / 3 000W.

The second Bodor machine on display will be the Bodor T230 series laser tube cutting machine for general and custom laser metal cutting applications including round, U-shaped, L-shaped and square tubes. It also comes equipped with edge seeking, centre finding, contour recognition, self centring chuck, genius t-needle nose, auto-focusing laser head and the Bodor thinker 3.0 smart control system. The effective tube cutting length is 6 500mm / 9 200mm.

Also on display will be the BodorWelder 1500 Pro hand-held laser welding machine, which the company launched in December 2023. While designed with fabricators in mind, the BodorWelder 1500 Pro is also suitable for beginners thanks to its user-friendly interface and easy operation.

Bodor sets new expectations for cooling techniques with the launch of BodorWelder 1500 Pro, as the machine redefines the mechanism for heat dissipation and temperature control. Based on Bodor’s intelligent Constant Temperature Circulation technology, the self-cooling method utilises refrigerant to effectively absorb heat the laser source produces. Without the need for a built-in water tank or cooling fans, it largely simplifies the design structure without compromising efficiency. Consequently, users can easily move it to finish projects in various workspace scenarios.

The laser output power is 1 500W, a maximum welding material thickness of 4mm, an optical fibre cable length of 10m and overall weight of 55kg.

Caldeaz Manufacturing Technologies Hall 6 Stand F1

Caldeaz will demonstrate the Kreon arms with the Skyline Eyes scanner. Kreon recently released their new Onyx arms, an updated design from the previous ACE arms. Kreon manufactures a full range of measuring arms, scanners and also scanners for CMMs.

Caldeaz also represents Aberlink. The Aberlink Fulcrum manual CMM will also be demonstrated at the show. This manual CMM can measure parts in 3D at 5 micron accuracy. This little machine is ideal for shop floor measurement to ensure CNC machines are set up correctly. The Aberlink Extol machines are CNC machines specifically designed for the shop floor. They are not sensitive to dust or temperature. The Aberlink software can also calculate tool offset compensation and then feed it back to your CNC machine. The Aberlink software is supplied with no maintenance fees. You buy it once and then you just download the new releases as they get released. That is at least 6 times a year.

Caldeaz are also the API resellers in South Africa. There will be a long-range scanner on the stand. With these systems you can scan components or objects over a long distance very accurately. The Elegoo 3D printers, used in the dental and jewellery industries, will also be exhibited. Elegoo manufacture FDM and resin type of machines. Caldeaz also sell Metal 3D printers.

Caldeaz’s Gauteng agent – Mithril Precision Components will also be on the stand.

CGR Agencies Hall 6 Stand B3

CGR Agencies will be showcasing a range of metalworking products from Fenes s.a. Fenes have been manufacturing quality tools for over 40 years with all raw material being sourced from reputable European producers to ensure high quality products.

Products that will be displayed at the show include Bi-metal bandsaw blades, which CGR Agencies keeps a comprehensive range of, from 13mm right up to 80mm wide blading. All blades are welded on the latest technology Ideal welding machines from Germany so customers can have the confidence that they are receiving quality blades with guaranteed welds.

Fenes offer a massive range of cutting tools to satisfy the needs of any toolroom or metalworking customer. This range includes the annular cutters, end mills, drills, taps, rotary burrs and countersinks. All these items are available in different material qualities to cover a customer’s full needs of cutting and drilling.

Between CGR Agencies and Fenes they have over 70 years of experience in the metal cutting industry and continue to evolve to create cost effectiveness for their customers and to work with their customers to make sure they are getting the most out of products. CGR agencies also have the technical experience to sort out issues that customers might have and to always offer back-up on all products they sell.

Chemical Solutions & Innovations Hall 6 Stand C4

Chemical Solutions and Innovations (CSI) is a private company established in 2006 that has grown to become a leading supplier of metalworking fluids and automotive lubricants to the Southern African market. CSI is the official distributor of Quaker Houghton and manufactures its own lubricants brand Potenza Oil.

CSI will be exhibiting a range of cutting fluids (neat oils), grinding fluids, alkaline industrial cleaners that are ideal for the de-greasing of parts after machining and a range of solvent and water-based rust preventives that provides long-term indoor and outdoor protection to ferrous material.

CML MachineTools Hall 6 Stand D1

Since 2000 CML Machine Tools have been the official agency in South Africa for Euromac punching and bending machines. Based on Euromac’s success in South Africa, the SafanDarley E-brake and shearing machine agency was acquired in 2006. Euromac and SafanDarley are world renowned companies and admired for their quality and exceptional service.

CML are also agents for SengFeng sheet and tube laser cutters, Delta Tube and Pipe Processing Machinery, Matrix Punch Press Tooling, Wila Press Brake Tooling and Delta Punch Press Tool Grinders.

DNE South Africa Hall 6 Stand D4

DNE South Africa are suppliers of sheet metal fabrication solutions and metal processing equipment. The focus lies on the automation of the complete material and data flow of the cutting and bending process chain. DNE’s portfolio includes laser cutting systems, press brakes, and associated automation and software solutions. Comprehensive services round off the portfolio.

DNE South Africa will have a DNE fibre laser and a DNE fibre laser welder on display.

Fanuc South Africa Hall 6 Stand G4

Fanuc South Africa will be demonstrating their full range of products, including ROBODRILL, their compact high speed machining center, ROBOCUT Wire EDM, ROBOSHOT fully electric injection moulding machine, Industrial robots, educational CNC Simulator, and IOT products.

On display for the first time in South Africa will be a couple of exciting new products. These include:
• The newest generation CNC Simulator specifically designed for education
• For the first time ever, a ROBODRILL with an extended Y axis travel of 500mm and a larger 28 tool turret will be shown. This advanced version machine has many exciting features including a servo turret for super-fast tool changes, power failure backup module and high-speed direct drive 4th axis
• An enhanced line-up of collaborative robots or cobots, now with payloads of 5, 10, 20 or 30kg
• Robot systems specifically designed for education will also be demonstrated
• IoT packages enabling smart factory management and predictive maintenance for CNC and Robot will be displayed with live demonstrations available for you to see

Flexilube Hall 6 Stand K14 and OS1, where The Coolant Doctor Mobile Laboratory will be stationed

Flexilube, a leading South African producer of lubricants and a specialist metalworking fluid manufacturer, are launching a new machine tool oil at Machine Tools Africa. The multi-functional hydraulic, machine tool slideway and gearbox oil NanoTritech is a true multi-purpose machine tool oil with a high viscosity index ensuring exceptional multigrade characteristics.

NanoTritech was developed to be totally compatible and work in conjunction with Flexilube’s NanoKool and BioKool range of water soluble cutting fluids used for turning, milling, drilling and grinding. Flexilube says supplying a product is only part of the experience, it is their after sales value-added-services are what set them apart from the rest.

The Coolant Doctor mobile laboratory, another of Flexilube’s extremely successful innovations, is of tremendous benefit to our customers. This unique on-site metalworking fluid programme, allows our customers to focus on what they know best and leave the hassle of caring for their soluble oils to us.

French Engineering Works Hall 6 Stand K13

French Engineering Works (FEW) is a manufacturer, exporter and importer of standard and premium high-speed steel cutting tools. The extensive product range stocked includes taps, dies, drills, cutters, reamers, broaches, toolbits, allied lines, recoil and solid carbide cutters and drills. Special taps and thread rolling dies (flat and circular) are manufactured on request. HSSE application machine taps for through and blind holes in stainless steels, high resistance steels, cast iron and non-ferrous metals are available ex-stock. FEW manufactures to ISO, DIN and JIS specifications. The wide range of thread forms readily available include M, MF, UNC, UNF, UNEF, UN, NPS, NPT, BSW, BSF, BA, BSB, BSP G / RP, and BSPT RC. FEW products are exported to 40 countries worldwide through a distribution network of stocking depots and exclusive agents. FEW will have a range of these tools on display.

Gühring Cutting Tools Hall 6 Stand C5

Gühring excels in designing innovative tools, optimising production lines, and providing unparalleled problem-solving expertise. Their national sales network ensures personalised service and support, making them a trusted partner in achieving operational excellence.

At Machine Tools Africa, in conjunction with their latest tools and solutions, Gühring are proud to showcase the Gühring Tool Management system, an epitome of efficiency and innovation in Industry 4.0. Gühring’s tool dispensing system, tailored to your needs, exemplifies their commitment to revolutionising manufacturing processes.

Moreover, with Gühring’s reconditioning services, your tools undergo rigorous refurbishment at their state-of-the-art service reconditioning centre. Gühring is able to provide reconditioning for their own products and the same high-quality service for competitor tooling as well, counting on over four decades of experience in developing cutting-edge coating technologies.

Gühring’s carbide recycling programme offers you an environment-friendly and economically attractive solution. By sending Gühring your used carbide tools, you help preserve and protect the environment and ensure that these products are recycled responsibly.

Hi-Tech Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand B5

Hi-Tech Machine Tools will exhibit various Mazak CNC machines including a Variaxis C600 5-Axis vertical machining center, the HCN 6800 Neo 2 horizontal machining center with a PALLETECH pallet changer and the VCN 600 vertical machining center. Featured on the Mazak CNC machines will be Open Mind hyperMILL CAM software and Albrecht tool holders used on the live demonstration parts which will be running through the duration of the exhibition.

Japanese manufacturer Mazak CNC manufactures vertical and horizontal CNC lathes, vertical and horizontal machining centers, the Integrex Mill-Turn, 5-axis machining centers and laser processing machines. Mazak CNC machines feature the Mazatrol Smooth Series Controller. The Smooth G & X Controller boast a 19” capacitive touch screen to make daily functions quick and easy. The Smooth controller can utilise both Mazatrol and ISO (G-Code) programmes making programming for any operator easy and functional.

Open Mind hyperMILL CAM software originates from Wessling, Germany. HyperMILL is a modular and flexible CAM solution for 2.5D, 3D and 5-axis milling as well as mill turning and machining operations such as high-speed cutting (HSC) and high-performance cutting (HPC), with everything integrated in a single interface. The special applications for milling impellers, blisks, turbine blades, tubes and tyre moulds complete the range of functions available in hyperMILL. hyperMILL can be used as a standalone system using hyperCAD-S or hyperMILL can run as an add-in for Solidworks or Autodesk Inventor.

Albrecht Precision Chucks, based in Wernau, Germany manufacture keyless drill chucks for manual milling and turning machines. Albrecht have also designed a keyless CNC drill chuck for modern applications and demands. When utilising milling tools for high performance and heavy-duty machining, Albrecht has the APC and Ultra chucks which use a 1:16 worm gear to pull the special collet on a 1.25 degree taper into the holder ensuring high clamping force for peace of mind and increased vibration dampening. When hard to reach areas and 5-axis strategies are needed, Albrecht can offer the 5-axis Slim Line, XXL Extensions and Micro Chucks. The Pin-Lock feature which mechanically secures the Weldon notch in the collet enables even better security when milling difficult to machine materials.

Additionally, Hi-Tech Machine Tools will have product and give live demonstrations on 5th Axis work holding, Hofmann & Vratny milling cutters and Freddy coolant recycling vacuums.

There will also be product and information on Blaser Swisslube on the stand.

HMR High Tech Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand B5

For over 20 years, HMR High Tech Machine Tools has been at the forefront of precision measurement and industrial innovation. HMR offer industry-leading scanners and expert support to businesses across South Africa. From the cutting edge of aerospace to the heart of the manufacturing floor, HMR helps companies capture reality with unmatched accuracy and speed.

HMR are also the sole authorised distributor of Bansbach gas springs in South Africa, offering a wide range of these high-quality motion control solutions for various applications. Bansbach has been a leading manufacturer of gas springs for over 100 years, known for their reliability, durability, and innovative technology.

HMR will have the following on display:
peel3.CAD – The new generation budget friendly portable handheld professional grade 3D scanner (Infra-Red) – Creaform HandySCAN Black|Elite portable handheld metrology grade 3D Laser scanners with software suitable for reverse engineering, inspection, and non-destructive testing with an accuracy of 0.025mm and 0.012mm. They have ISO17025 accreditation based on VDI 2834 Part 3 Standard.

HMR also offer 3D scanning services solutions for surface damage assessment for pipelines, aerospace and other service damage requirements. Part of the HandySCAN family is the new HandySCAN Max with an accuracy of 0.075mm for scans up to 15m. The HandySCAN Max is ideal for professionals in various industries who need to scan large objects. HMR also provide a professional scanning service.

Lead Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand H9

Lead Machine Tools was founded in 2011 and has since built a reputation throughout South Africa as a high-end, B-BBEE Machine Tools merchant, supplying high-technology machine tools and accessories. Lead Machine Tools has carefully selected hi-tech suppliers from Europe, USA, Taiwan and Japan to cover a wide range of machine shop, job shop and production requirements. They are continually improving the product range to keep up with the constantly evolving technological manufacturing world.

Lead Machine Tools stock a large variety of CNC accessories, CNC tooling, conventional machines and related equipment.

On display will be a Microdynamics Tera 50V VMC, a Hwacheon Cutex 180 BL SYNC universal lathe, a SINO SP 1020 bridge-type double column machining center and a SINO SHL 60P-500 horizontal CNC lathe.

Metal Chip Machinery Hall 6 Stand J8

Metal Chip Machinery supply, install, commission and maintain capital equipment and provide the spares and consumables necessary to ensure that your asset need not stand idle. Metal Chip Machinery are agents for European and Asian manufacturers of cutting, forming and chip removal equipment as well as tooling and accessories. These include HSG Lasers, CoastOne, Gerradi and MVD.

Metal Chip Machinery will display a HSG 3015X 12kW fibre laser, a Jaguar LS 30 air compressor, a Loewer DiscMaster 4TD through feed deburring and edge rounding machine, a CoastOne C9 fully electric press brake, a PressOne automatic fastener installation press, a MVD-B175 3100 CNC press brake, as well as spares tooling and consumables from Gerardi work holding, Ketec punching tooling, Eurostamp press brake tooling and Teng tools.

Multitrade Distributors Hall 6 Stand E10 and E11

Multitrade Distributors, a wholly owned South African company established in 1983 specialising in tungsten carbide cutting tools and holding tools and are the exclusive distributor in Southern Africa of DIAEDGE by Mitsubishi Materials. Multitrade Distributors also offers a selection of globally recognised brands including Moldino, D’Andrea, Union Materials, ARNO Werkzeuge and NT TOOLS. This portfolio of brands addresses the ever-changing demands of the industry, guaranteeing meticulous precision and increased efficiency in machining operations.

Visitors can explore Multitrade Distributors’ latest cutting tools range, engage with technical sales engineers for expert advice, and witness machinery demonstrations featuring products at the TH Machine Tools stand. Additionally, an Edgecam programming competition offers visitors a chance to win prizes, as well as giveaways at the Multitrade Distributors stand.

Committed to quality and innovation, Multitrade Distributors boasts a technical applications team providing guidance and support, with headquarters in Johannesburg and branches in Cape Town, Gqeberha and Durban, ensuring widespread access to their products and services.

Multitrade 3D Systems Hall 6 Stand F13

Multitrade 3D Systems, a leading provider of metal additive manufacturing solutions, will showcase its innovative technologies catering to sub-Saharan African markets. Serving as the sole representative for GE Additive in South Africa and authorised reseller for Meltio, MX3D, and Amazemet in Sub-Saharan Africa, Multitrade 3D Systems offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge technologies.

Their product portfolio includes laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) / direct metal laser melting (DMLM) machines, directed energy deposition (DED) systems, ultrasonic atomisers, furnaces and finishing equipment. Visitors will see Multitrade 3D Systems showcasing the Meltio M450 machine, highlighting its capabilities in fabricating metal parts rapidly and cost-effectively. The team will also emphasise the unique features and benefits of the brand new Meltio M600 machine.

Demonstrations and expert talks will be given at Multitrade 3D Systems’ stand, with insights from Dr. Devon Hagedorn-Hansen, their additive manufacturing specialist, on the future of manufacturing and the benefits of metal additive manufacturing.

PBS Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand E7

PBS Machine Tools’ stand will revolve around the concept of the smart factory and getting companies to get involved in the digital era, showing off productivity tools that can ensure you run at the highest possible production rates, whilst being connected to view your machine’s status.

“In mass production environments change-overs occur least often, if at all. Whereas in jobbing environments change-overs are far more frequent and can cause losses of entire shifts if not planned correctly. Changing over from one job to the next involves tooling, fixtures, programming and first off operations.”

“With this in mind, we are exhibiting the following at Machine Tools Africa 2024 in order help start the digital revolution in South Africa’s production environments. Thus, allowing planning departments and setters to plan their work in advance.”

Digital Twin Technology – having a digital twin of your machine allows you to fully test and check processes and programmes, tooling and fixture interference and accurate cycle time because we use the actual machine PLC prior to loading the part into a machine. This reduces set up times and also allows for predictable production rates and accurate quoting as you will have accomplished the first off in the same time.

Line Management System – TLM monitors machine utilisation, uploads programmes, provides real time machine status, tool life management and constantly measures OEE. All of this information is critical in managing any production system and improving productivity.

Dr. Tongtai – Tongtai’s patented Dr. TT suitcase plug in system for fault finding and testing. This is done by our technicians on the customer’s machine in real time, while the CNC is running.

Production Training Centre – we are launching our new training centre, where companies can send their staff for high level training in production planning and execution. Course material includes:
• Calculating OEE
• Implementing SMART manufacturing solutions
• Time and motion studies
• Production flow

PFERD South Africa Hall 6 Stand F24

PFERD South Africa is a manufacturer of premium tool solutions for work on surfaces. The product range includes tools for cutting, grinding, brushing, polishing, filing and milling tools, plus matching power units.

PFERD is a leading brand in the development, production and support, as well as distribution of tool solutions for work on surfaces and material cutting. In keeping with a tradition that dates back more than 200 years, PFERD operates as an independent, internationally oriented, family-owned company geared towards long-term sustainability. PFERD tools offer the user maximum benefit and optimum cost-effectiveness. Its unlimited commitment to premium quality and operator safety, its reliability as a supplier, and its responsible use of resources all make PFERD a dependable and reliable trading partner that operates with mutual sustainability in mind.

On display will be a range of industrial abrasives, including files, TC burrs, bonded abrasives, stones, grinding and cutting discs, coated abrasives, sand paper and fibre discs.

Puma Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand G2

With over 20 years’ experience, Puma Machine Tools is a leading supplier of machine tools, tooling, consumables, services, and accessories to the metalworking and engineering industries. Puma Machine Tools represents a number of prestigious South East Asian manufacturers including DN Solutions, JFY, Chevalier, Citizen Machinery Co., Ltd, Cosen, CSM, IEMCA, Parkson, S & T Dynamics and Visionwide.

Services offered by Puma Machine Tools include machine installation, servicing, repairs, importation of spare parts and consumables, programming, training, machine moves, time studies, after-hour support and project implementation.

Puma Machine Tools will have two South African product launches on the stand – the JFY BFC Plus 3015 fibre laser machine and the JFY electric press brake, TPE8 series.

Puma Machine Tools will have the following machines on display: a JFY BFC Plus 3015 fibre laser machine (table 3 050mm by 1 545mm up to 3kW), a JFY TPR8 press brake 100 x 3 100 (100 ton by 3 100mm), a JFY TPE8 press brake 50 x 1 500 (50 ton by 1 500mm), a Cosen Saw G300 (round 300mm, square 300mm and rectangle (HxW) 300 x 340mm), an IEMCA Advantage 66 bar feeder , a DN Solutions DVF 5000 5-Axis VMC (XYZ travels 625/450/400mm, load 450kg, table 500mm x 550mm), a DN Solutions Lynx 2100 LSYB horizontal lathe (max turning 300mm, max length 510mm)
DN Solutions DNM 5700 VMC ((XYZ travels 1050/570/510mm, load 1 000kg, table 1 300 x 570mm), a DN Solutions PUMA 4100 LC horizontal lathe (max turning 550mm, max length 2 052mm) and a DN Solutions DNT 2100 MB horizontal lathe (max turning 320mm, max length 501mm).

Rapid 3D Hall 6 Stand G12

Rapid 3D supplies and supports additive manufacturing (3D printing) solutions from EOS. EOS is the global technology and quality leader for high-end solutions in the field of additive manufacturing (AM). Rapid 3D was founded in 2004 and has an experienced and expert team ready to assist you in leveraging AM technology for your business. Solutions covering verticals such as aerospace, automotive, industrial manufacture and more. Rapid 3D can supply AM solutions for the production of parts in metal and polymer as well as full processing solutions.

Renishaw Hall 6 Stand K16

Renishaw are a global engineering technology group with core skills in measurement, motion control, spectroscopy and precision machining. Renishaw create high-precision technology for metrology and healthcare. Renishaw design and develop systems and solutions for complete precision, control and reliability.

Renishaw are also a world leader in additive manufacturing (also known as metal 3D printing). They design and produce compact machines that ‘print’ parts from metal powder. From transport to agriculture, electronics and healthcare, Renishaw’s breakthrough technology transforms product performance.

Renishaw have 67 key locations in 36 countries with 5 000 plus employees worldwide. Over 3 000 people work for Renishaw in the UK. This is where Renishaw does much of their research and development and manufacturing.

Renishaw’s products include precision measurement and process control, CMMs, CMM probes, software and retrofits, machine tool probes and software, machine calibration and optimisation, smart manufacturing data platforms, Equator gauging systems, fixtures, precision styli for metrology, position and motion control, open optical encoders, enclosed optical encoders, interferometric laser encoders and magnetic encoders.

Retecon Hall 6 Stand H1 & H8

Retecon will occupy two stands. On the one stand (H1) the equipment on display will be used in the forming and sheet metal industries. On the other stand (H8) most of the equipment is used in the shaping of metal.

With over 50 years’ experience, Retecon is the leading supplier of machine tools, tooling, consumables, services, and accessories to the metalworking and related engineering industries. Retecon represents a number of prestigious international manufacturers including DMG MORI, Trumpf, Alpha laser, Ficep, and Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

Retecon provides you with a complete, support solution from machinery, sales and installation to service, spare parts and relocation. They are the only certified laboratory for calibration and verification of portable arms in Southern Africa.

Retecon will have 3 product launches including a N.KO Stinger 300, a heavy-duty ID mounted pipe beveller utilising self-centring expandable mandrels, a AL-FLAK 900 laser welder from Alpha Laser and Alpha Laser welding and cladding equipment.

Equipment Stand H1
On display will be a Trumpf TruBend 5320 press brake (353 tons by 4 420mm), Trumpf TruBend 1150 press brake (150 tons by 3 100mm), Trumpf TruBend 1225 press brake (225 tons by 4 100mm), Trumpf TruLaser 1030 (L99) 6kW fibre laser (Bed 3 000mm x 1 500mm) and a MSS Nitrocube nitrogen generator.

Hand-held machines Stand H1
On display will be a Trumpf N500 nibbler, a Trumpf TKA 1500 deburring tool, a Trumpf TKA 700 deburring tool, a Trumpf TKF 1500 beveller, a Trumpf S 160 AKKU metal shear, a Trumpf PN 200 profile nibbler, a Trumpf TF 350 fastener, a Trumpf F301 seam locker, a Trumpf TSC 100 slat cleaner, a Trumpf PS 100 part separator, a N.KO UZ 50 Triumph double-sided bevelling machine, a N.KO Stinger 300 pipe beveller, a N.KO B15 Electra beveller and deburrer, a Markator FlyMarker mini 85/45 Plus dot peen marker, a Markator M80 dot peen marker and a Markator Station.

Equipment Stand H8
On display will be a Alpha Laser AL FLAK laser welder, a Alpha Laser ALM 300 laser welder, a DMG MORI M1 VMC (XYZ 550x550x510mm, table 1 400 x 600mm, load 1 700kg), a Hexagon Global Lite CMM , a Hexagon Tracker direct scanning laser, Hexagon Absolute portable arms, a ViciVision Prima optical measuring machine, a Tube Inspect P8 optical tube and wire measurement system, a Porsche GT3 RS vehicle and a Haimer tool presetter.

RGC Engineering Hall 6 Stand G6

RGC will have a full interactive Measurlink statistical process control system (SPC) setup, showing the latest in integration of digital measurement tools. This will include micrometers, vernier’s, height gauges and other small tools. RGC will also be showing the ability to integrate this with other capital items like 3D coordinate measurement machines (CMM), vision machines (2D and 3D optical measurement machines), Surftest (surface roughness tester) and others.

On the Marposs side, RGC will be showcasing some of the state-of-the-art solutions for production inspection requirements, manual handheld inspection gauges, in-line bench measuring fixtures and fully automated in-line inspection systems for specific custom inspection requirements including Real Time SPC.

RGC will be showcasing a range of GOM Atos Core scanners in various setups and measuring volumes as well as the portable T-SCAN hawk 2 system that measures coordinates of 3D objects quickly and precisely, showing capabilities of 3D digitising, deformation analysis, CAD overlay and full inspection. Live demonstrations will be done at the stand as well as a presentation to be done at the free to attend seminar theatre.

SIMTEQ Engineering Hall 6 Stand G6

SIMTEQ Engineering specialises in Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) technology and engineering simulation software. We provide engineering businesses and manufacturers with digital tools and virtual environments to competitively design, develop and manufacture products and solutions for a better tomorrow.

Engineering simulation is a major key to the five business drivers to provide a better understanding and insight into product development, process behaviour, variability and risk.

World-class simulation software providers like Hexagon | MSC Software, Moldex3D, ESI, Ingeciber and VI-grade chose to partner with us thanks to our extensive technical knowledge, engineering experience and passion for simulation solutions.

SIMTEQ Engineering provides the sales, training, knowledge transfer and support of the industry-leading engineering simulations tools that we represent in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Somta Tools Hall 6 Stand F4

Somta Tools’ theme and emphasis this year is on complete machining solutions, in line with all the new solutions that they have to offer the industry.

In 2016 Somta partnered with global cutting tool giants OSG, with OSG becoming the majority stakeholder. OSG is a leading manufacturer of taps, end mills, drills, and indexable cutting tools. OSG’s extensive line of high technology cutting tools features exclusive metallurgy, cutting geometries and proprietary surface treatments to help increase productivity, reliability and tool life.
As a result of the partnership Somta gained access and support to OSG technologies and expertise on a global scale, and can now offer OSG cutting tools to the African market, whilst OSG subsidiaries worldwide have added Somta’s range of tooling to their portfolio offering.

On 1 November 2022, Somta Tools reached an agreement with Korloy to promote and support its carbide insert and tool holder ranges in the African market. Korloy, established in South Korea in 1966, is a world-renowned brand specialising in tool holders and inserts for turning, milling and multipurpose, both with a full line-up of ISO standard and special tools.

Being able to offer OSG cutting tools and Korloy insert and tool holder ranges alongside Somta’s round tool programme, makes Somta the undisputed leader of machining solutions in Africa with all the comprehensive offerings it now has available.

Another focus on the stand will be that Somta is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Somta was established in 1954, with a staff complement of only 20 employees. Since then, it has grown exponentially and now provides employment to more than 300 people, with its head office and manufacturing plant based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and a sales and distribution centre in Gauteng.

The sales and distribution centre in Gauteng stocks all Somta standard and application products as well as some OSG and Korloy best sellers and is able to offer same day delivery within the Gauteng region, and next day delivery to all other provinces within South Africa.

Somta Tools will be showing some of their standard and application tooling as well some of OSG’s and Korloys tooling. This will be Somta’s first time to showcase Korloy since they reached an agreement to promote and support their carbide insert and tool holder ranges in 2022.

New products on the stand will include OSG’s M-LT-SFT-Duplex tap and their AE-CRE-H and AE-HFE-H end mills. Somta’s new products on display will be the new collet range and the new VariCut Pro with improved geometry, variable helix, edge preparation & machining methodology.

There will also be some coated gear cutters and piercing punches on display because, in addition to Somta coating its own tooling, they also do coating of gear cutting tools, piercing punches, moulds, dies, dental inserts, broaching blades and inserts of all different manufacturers and sizes for customers. Coating these items can improve their life span by 200% to 300% and when used in certain applications, can increase speeds and feeds by as much as 50%.

Somta will also have a Haas VF2 on the stand on which they will be machining M200 steel, 304 stainless steel and hardened H13 steel. Machining will include drilling with OSG’s HYP-HP-3D drills, tapping with OSG’s A-SFT and A-XPF taps and milling with Korloy’s TPMS triple mill, HFMD high-feed cutter and CE45 multi-functional chamfer tool, OSG’s AE-LNBD-H, AE-MS-H and WXL-LN-EBD end mills, as well as Somta’s new VariCut Pro with improved geometry, variable helix, edge preparation and machining methodology. All tools will be held in the Haas machine with Korloy holders and Somta’s new collet range. Haas South Africa who have supplied the VF2 machine will also have a Haas representative present on the Somta stand.

Spectrum Machine Tools Africa Hall 6 Stand A16

Spectrum Machine Tools Africa specialises in sheet metal and metal removal machines. Spectrum Machine Tools Africa is the sole distributor in South Africa for various brands such as Durmazlar (Durma), Hyundai Wia, Tamsan Compressors, Mikropor, Metalix CAD/CAM software as well as other products complementing the products delivered by Spectrum Machine Tools such as press brake tooling, laser and plasma cutting consumables.

On display will be a Durmazlar AD-S 3015 hydraulic press brake with an easy-to-use control unit, stable body structure, perfect design, low operating cost, different tool usage options, and maximum safety standards. Durma press brakes are equipped with aluminium back-gauge systems, front sheet supports, precise hydraulic system, Durma’s licensed upper table sliding system, Euro type punch holders, high-speed and stroke Y1-Y2 bending axis and CE level safety standards.

In addition, Spectrum Machine Tools Africa will have on display a Hyundai Wia SE2200LM compact live tool long bed turning center with a maximum turning diameter of 300mm and a swing of 600mm. There will also be a Hyundai Wia KF5600II vertical machining center with XYZ axis of 1 100mm by 560mm by 520mm and a table size of 1 250mm by 560mm.

The fourth machine on the stand will be a Dongbu 200LSY CNC lathe.

Tekenso Ltd Hall 6 Stand C16

eTrack is basically a suite of different applications which stretch from accounting to manufacturing, warehouse management, human resources and customer relationship management. From quote to invoice eTrack enables the provision of fast, accurate fabrication and manufacturing operational intelligence.

Software investment can challenge the most successful of metal fabricating companies. They know what they would like to have, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the software company has a product that adheres to their requirements. Often, a big gap exists between what a shop would like to have and what they end up with. The developers of Tekenso’s eTrack software recognised this struggle and saw an opportunity to fill a perceived gap in the market. Creating and testing processes in the manufacturing and fabrication industry for over 12 years they developed a complete management system that incorporates finance, sales, production, logistics, HR and IT (CAD/CAM/nesting software, CRM/ERP) that was launched in 2021.

The developers realised that they had to come up with a solution that could help the many businesses that want to get into the digital space at an affordable level. They know that the majority want to and the way to do this is to take up our modular approach for their journey into digitalisation. The flexible, interoperable and modular approach will allow companies to move as fast as they like by adding the various modules to their package when they require to do so.

TH Machine Tools Hall 6 Stand F8

TH Machine Tools specialises in used, reconditioned and new fabrication, manufacturing and engineering machines, including press brakes, guillotines, plate rolls, metal workers, lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, bandsaws and more.

TH Machine Tools supplies the engineering industry with good quality and value for money machine tools, services and spares. All machines go through a thorough commissioning process before leaving the floor, and a reliable team of specialised technicians attends to all after sales services and maintenance. The company will have a range of the machines they market. The vast portfolio includes conventional press brakes, guillotines, plate rolls, metal workers, lathes, mills, drills, band saws, welding machines, CNC fibre laser cutters, plasma cutters, machining centers and turning centers.

Suppliers are carefully selected from across Europe, the East and America, namely: Hurco from the USA; SYIL from China; Sahinler, Isitan, LFSS and Bekamak from Turkey and TH Machine Tools’ brand from China and Taiwan, ensuring quality, affordability, service, backup and spares.

Top-Tool Hall 6 Stand A1

Top-Tool is a level one agent and supplier of Sandvik Coromant cutting tools including milling cutters, carbide tools, reamers, taps, turning tools, step drills, carbide drills, long series drills, boring tools, knurling tools, endmills, u-drills, cam drills, slotting tools, threading tools, grooving tools and more.

Top-Tool are also the agents for Hermle AG machining centres and milling machines and HWR Spanntechnik GmbH, a specialist in clamping deformation-sensitive workpieces and in compensating, concentric clamping of components of any shape.

TRM Supplies Hall 6 Stand D3

TRM offers products in the field of sheet metal machines for the following industries: Sheet metal, air-conditioning, refrigeration, rail and road transport, vehicle manufacturing, mining and engineering, structural and architectural steelwork, advertising display manufacturing and toolrooms.

TRM Supplies represents Hugong, Yangli, AMG, GMACC, MG, SEI Laser, LTI KEBA Motion control, Laser ISSE, Uzma, ACCTEK, Olymtech and used Trumpf machines.

On display will be a Hugong HGlaser 3015 with a 20kW Maxphotonics laser source using the latest FSCUT 8000 control, a Hugong Flashlaser 3015 open type single table with a 2/3kW Maxphotonics laser source, a Hugong 3in1- 3kw dual wire Laser welding, cutting and cleaning machine, a Yangli EB3612 full electric high-speed CNC press brake with a 36 ton bending force and 1 250mm width, a 22kw Olymtech 16BAR 4IN1 compressor and other fibre laser equipment. A range of laser consumables, Hypertherm plasma consumables and machines will be on display as well.

TRM Supplies will have representatives on the stand from Hugong and Olymtech China.

WD Hearn Machine Tools Hall 6 Stands H9, J12, J13, J14, J15, J16, K17

WD Hearn is one of largest CNC machine tool suppliers in South Africa providing highly experienced technical support and quality after sale customer service wherever your business is situated. WD Hearn was established in 1937 and presently has branches in the four major cities around the country. WD Hearn is consistently up to date with the latest worldwide machine tool developments and current technology market trends. WD Hearn makes a point of understanding all customers’ needs to ensure that professional and customer-specific advice is given to all job shop and production requirements.

With just under 500m² exhibition space spread across 7 stands, WD Hearn Machine Tools are going to showcase a Kitamura 4G 5-Axis VMC, a Nakamura Tome SC-100 multi-tasking machines, a Mitsubishi wire-cut EDM, four Leadwell machines including a Leadwell V-52AF VMC, a Leadwell V-42 VMC, a Leadwell T-7i slant bed lathe and a Leadwell T-8XL horizontal turning center, LK CMM, Leader, Scantech and Tomelleri measuring equipment.

WTS-Whole Tooling Solutions Hall 6 Stand H10

WTS-Whole Tooling Solutions is the official distributor for the Filtermist brand in South Africa. WTS will be exhibiting the Filtermist product range on its stand.

Made in the UK, Filtermist is an industry-proven solution for eliminating oil mist from manufacturing environments, trusted by world leading manufacturers since 1969. Filtermist collector units, also known as oil mist eliminators, efficiently remove oil mist, coolant mist, fume and steam in thousands of manufacturing operations around the world.

Filtermist oil mist collectors are in regular use on applications including general machining, spark eroding, grinding, turning, food spraying and industrial washing processes.

Other exhibitors
Other companies that are exhibiting include Adams Metalworking Products, Baypac Solutions, B&R-Stillam, CNC Professional Machine and Engineering, CNC Warehouse, Easysoftcnc, Garsin Steel Tube and Pipe, Gencsi Machine Tools, Iplastics, Magnum Machine Tools, Mecad Systems, Nitralife SA, NSK, Perfect Laser Technologies, Pinnacle Welding and Safety, Reebok River/Cadmes, Rubber Stamp and Engraving, Sasfin Bank Limited, Sol-Tech, South African Capital Equipment Export Council, Sphoorti, Trotec, WR Agencies, Wuhan EETO Laser Equipment, Yomi Supply Chain.