EMO 2025 out-performed Hurco’s expectations
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Hurco was pleasantly surprised by the number of existing customers and new contacts ready to negotiate machine purchases on the company’s stand at EMO 2025, held in Hannover from 22nd to 26th September. In total, 14 machine tools valued at more than €2 million were booked at the show, early signs that the outlook for machine tool sales in European markets will improve over the coming months, following a period in the doldrums.
The event reaffirmed its status as a top trade show for metalworking and production technology. It felt well timed, coming after years of investment caution by manufacturers, notably due to the pandemic and its aftermath, as well as supply chain disruptions. The exhibition showed technology pushing forward and a growing readiness in parts of the world to start spending again. Automation, digitalisation and sustainability were strong themes throughout.
Hannover remains the ideal location to host this international show, where manufacturers from all over the world are given the opportunity to showcase their latest advances in metalcutting technology. According to Klaus Holzl, general manager of Hurco GmbH, “If it is available, there’s a good chance you will see it at EMO”.
Due to the large size of the fairground and with so many exhibitors, it is inevitably challenging to see everything. Visitors generally stayed more than one day, deciding to navigate the halls as efficiently as possible, prioritising their particular interests.
Star of the show for Hurco was a new offering from the manufacturer’s in-house robotics division, the Profeeder Easy Desk 30, which was on show for the first time in Europe. Employing a higher-specification UR30 ProCobot that offers a 30 kg load capacity, compared to 12.5 kg available with the popular cobot models currently sold by Hurco, it was integrated with a Hurco VMX42Di 3-axis vertical machining centre.
The new cobot enables heavier components to be handled, while maintaining the benefits of easy programming and quick changeover offered by the efficient user interface that allows programming directly at the Hurco Max 5 twin-screen control. For Easy Desk 30, heavy-duty workholding and grippers from Schunk are preferred. Furthermore, an additional proximity sensor is incorporated that pauses the motion of the ProCobot when an operator moves into the working zone.
Klaus Holzl continued, “Machine automation has been with us for some time. However, we are now finding that the technology is becoming more accessible, affordable and easier to use. It is a trend that can only get stronger”.
Summarising, he said that in spite of challenging headwinds that exist in the world of manufacturing, EMO proved its worth as the primary biennial machine tool exhibition for showcasing each OEM’s latest innovations. It also provides an excellent opportunity to meet end-users face-to-face and discuss plans for the future.
Hurco Europe Ltd
