MT Magazine May/June 2025

MANUFACTURING MATTERS

MAY/JUNE 2025

9

Manufacturing Matters Check in for the highlights, headlines, and hijinks that matter to manufacturing. These lean news items keep you updated on the latest developments.

TECHNOLOGY

Manufacturing Is Driving Emerging Markets Do you like the idea of nozzles in jet engines that save you 20% fuel? How about heat exchangers that save 22% weight in Formula One applications? Want to order in lot sizes of one for mass customization? Advanced manufacturing technologies and processes largely drive these advancements in emerging markets. While this is not a new concept, how manufacturers operate in these markets is evolving. These markets require fast iterations, knowledge of limitations, experience pushing past boundaries, and application lessons learned – and iterating from that knowledge. To continue seeing innovative products, manufacturing and quality must increasingly connect with design to continue seeing innovative products.

INTELLIGENCE

Small Chips Make a Big Splash in Manufacturing Semiconductor manufacturing is undergoing a transformation that is significantly influencing manufacturing technology. While traditional machine tools are not directly involved in fabricating semiconductor wafers, they play a crucial role in the production, assembly, and maintenance of the specialized equipment that enables chipmaking. High-growth sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs), AI/data centers, and defense are driving the surge in semiconductor demand. EV platforms now require two to three times more chips than internal combustion vehicles, with semiconductor content per EV ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, compared to $400-$600 for traditional vehicles. AI accelerators for data infrastructure demand new architectures and high-yield wafer processes, creating a ripple effect for machinery makers, prompting greater need for ultra-fine machining, cleanroom-compatible workholding systems, and automated metrology solutions that ensure tight tolerances and zero defect output.

SMARTFORCE

Emerging Markets? How About Emerging Talent? Don’t wait for the Smartforce Student Summit at IMTS 2026 – stay engaged with workforce trends year-round! Keep pace with innovation through the Smartforce Newsletter and Smartforce Blog and connect in person at the Bright Minds Student Summits during SME’s MT Series shows. Follow these platforms for timely insights, resources, and opportunities to prepare for the future of our workforce. Learn more at IMTS.com/smartforce.