B&R Vision Functions are new image processing tools that simplify automation programmers’ tasks.

B&R vision functions perform specific image processing tasks, either individually in a vision sensor or as a sequence of functions in a smart camera. By encapsulating sophisticated HALCON program code in an intuitive interface, the new vision functions make it easy for automation programmers to configure advanced vision functionality and incorporate the results in the machine application. The Simple Matching function is easier to train because it has fewer argument possibilities. When a picture is being trained directly from the application, it serves as an alternative to the edge-based standard matching algorithm. The Clutter Matching function can be used to define an area within or around a matching hit where no clutter is allowed, which is important in pick-and-place applications.

The calibration function corrects errors resulting from perspective or optical distortion by converting pixel values into metric values. These are needed for metric data from a camera or when precise measurement of the subpixel range is needed. The image manipulation function makes it possible to apply added filters and image manipulations for tasks such as reading curved fonts. With the Simple Logic & Mathematics function, the intermediate results from one or more vision functions can be used directly on the camera to control later image processing steps. These five new vision functions make image processing more flexible and productive than ever.

Ammann has opened a new manufacturing facility in India for the production of track pavers. The facility, which will focus on ABG Track and Wheel Pavers, compactors, and bitumen sprayers, will integrate German-engineering technology to strengthen Ammann’s presence in the Indian and global markets.

Ammann, a road construction equipment manufacturer, inaugurated a new manufacturing facility dedicated to the production of track pavers. This expansion marks a significant milestone in Ammann India’s commitment to enhancing its world-class construction equipment offerings.

Further to acquiring ABG pavers last year, Ammann has now invested in a state-of-the-art facility that will focus on the production of ABG Track and Wheel Pavers with widths ranging from 7.5 meters to 10 meters as well as, compactors, and bitumen sprayers. The integration of pioneering German-engineering technology will further strengthen the company’s foothold in the Indian and global markets, reinforcing its reputation for delivering high-performance, fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced road construction solutions.

The investment has been directed towards modernising manufacturing infrastructure, incorporating automation, implementing sustainability initiatives, and upskilling the workforce. It incorporates cutting-edge automation features including IIoT-based Automatic Storage and Retrieval System for optimised material handling and safety as well as automated real-time data acquisition for enhanced process monitoring and quality assurance.

The facility’s design is centred on sustainability. Comprehensive environmental measures have been incorporated by Ammann, such as the installation of solar panels to lessen carbon emissions, IIoT-enabled energy monitoring systems, and an environmentally friendly infrastructure with LED lighting, skylights, and HVLS fans. The company’s dedication to ethical manufacturing is further demonstrated by a strong waste management and recycling program. The centre will also offer extensive courses in Lean Six Sigma and quality assurance, as well as advanced manufacturing training, and international talent exchange programs.

Speaking on the occasion, Hans-Christian Schneider, CEO- Ammann Group, shares, “India has emerged as a key market for Ammann, and this expansion underscores our long-term commitment to the region. With its growing infrastructure needs and demand for advanced road construction solutions, India plays a crucial role in our global strategy. With a similar manufacturing facility in Germany and now India, we continue to showcase our dedication to technological innovation, creative problem-solving, and sustainable practices.”

This strategic expansion is aligned with Ammann India’s vision of indigenously manufacturing solutions tailored to revolutionise India’s highway infrastructure and also take it to the global markets across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and a few European countries, reinforcing its position as a leader in the road construction equipment industry.

SAVWIPL is recognised as a top exporter by the Mumbai Port Authority with exports of over 675,000 made-in-India cars to about 70 countries.

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has been recognised as the “Top Exporter 2023-2024” by the Mumbai Port Authority. This prestigious accolade celebrates SAVWIPL’s remarkable contribution to India’s export landscape and its pioneering legacy of exporting made-in-India cars to the world for over 20 years.

The Group has exported over 675,000 vehicles to date. In 2023, the Group recorded 38% year-on-year (YoY) growth when exports accounted for 30% of total production. This was followed by 20% YoY growth as exports constituted 40% of its locally produced vehicles in 2024.

SAVWIPL exported more than 43,000 locally-manufactured cars in FY 2023-24 to over 26 countries across Asia, Africa, and North America. From iconic models like the Volkswagen Vento and Polo to new-age models like the Volkswagen Virtus, Volkswagen Taigun, and Škoda Kushaq, SAVWIPL’s made-in-India cars continue to gain international recognition, strengthening its global presence and reinforcing India’s significance in the Group’s global strategy.

As part of its expanding export strategy, the company is also exporting parts and components to Vietnam from its Parts Expedition Centre in Pune to support local vehicle assembly in the region. This strategic move leverages India’s manufacturing prowess and geographical synergies, contributing to the growth of India’s automotive sector on a global scale.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director & CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, commented on the achievement: “We are honoured to receive this award. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and the growing global presence of cars engineered and manufactured in India. Over the years, we have demonstrated our capabilities as a key export hub, and we remain dedicated to strengthening India’s role in the global automotive industry. We extend our gratitude to the port authorities, our dedicated teams, partners, and stakeholders who have made this success possible. As we look ahead, we will continue to explore additional export opportunities while maintaining the momentum into 2025.”

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India remains focused on developing the domestic ecosystem, nurturing local talent, and delivering world-class, high-quality vehicles driven in India and appreciated globally. With this latest milestone, the Group reaffirms its commitment to ‘Make in India, for India and the world’, as it continues to drive Indian manufacturing excellence onto the global stage.

From Canada, the partner country of HANNOVER MESSE 2025, comes Quantum Bridge, a young company with academic roots that aims to protect companies against even the most advanced threats with its quantum-based solutions.

Quantum Bridge was founded in 2019 as a spin-off from the University of Toronto. The people behind the company have decades of experience in the fields of quantum and classical information theory, communication, cryptography and cybersecurity. Based on academic excellence and technological innovation, Quantum Bridge has quickly become a leader in the field of quantum-safe communication.

Quantum Bridge is primarily concerned with complex technical and theoretical challenges, including the generation and manipulation of quantum entanglement. The remarkable work on quantum repeaters and the company’s proprietary technology strengthens existing networks against both classical and quantum threats.

At HANNOVER MESSE 2025, the Canadians are showcasing the Symmetric Key Distribution System (SDS), a flexible and comprehensive security solution designed to enable organizations to protect their sensitive data and communications across the entire network stack, regardless of the encryption methods or devices used. The SDS supports post-quantum cryptography (PQC), quantum key distribution (QKD), pre-shared keys (PSK) and the distributed symmetric key establishment (DSKE) protocol for unconditional security. According to Quantum Bridge, it protects against even the most advanced threats and ensures that organizations can meet their security and compliance requirements with confidence.

Airplanes, skyscrapers, and pipelines rely on advanced welding consumables for strength and precision. From flux compositions to hydrogen control, filler metals, and sustainable welding tech—discover how innovations in welding materials shape industries while making them endure the toughest of weather fluctuations and storms.

You are watching a SpaceX rocket launch. The rocket lifts off when the countdown hits zero and the engines roar, spitting fire hotter than the sun’s surface (over 3,000°C!). Did you wonder how the engine does not melt? Well, the welding process was in action. Rocket engines are built using exotic heat-resistant alloys and require super-precise welding to survive these extreme temperatures. Now, welding needs the aids – the materials that survive the heat, the wind and the ice.

The rockets weld the nozzles and combustion chambers using Nickel-based filler wire, such as ERNiCrMo-3 and Inconel 625. TIG welding Electrodes (Thoriated Tungsten – EWTh-2) help in the precision welding of fuel injectors. Shielding gas (Argon + Helium Mix) protects molten metal from contamination. So next time you watch a rocket launch, think about the thousands of welded joints inside the rocket engine, each making the mission successful.

Advancements in welding consumables are ongoing, with R&D efforts continually focused on discovering and applying new materials to enhance final products and improve upon existing solutions. Here, we explore some of the major welding consumables.

Flux compositions

Flux compositions’ advancements improve weld quality and minimise defects, particularly in critical applications such as pipelines, structural welding, and pressure vessels. The flux composition of welding filler metals has a major effect on arc behaviour, spatter formation, slag release, weld bead appearance, weld metal purity, and mechanical properties. 

Modern fluxes are formulated to optimise metallurgical properties, arc stability, and weld integrity. They incorporate alloying elements like manganese and silicon to boost strength, toughness, and crack resistance while controlling oxygen content to reduce porosity and inclusions.

Stabilising additives give better arc control, smoother arcs, and higher deposition rates, particularly in submerged arc welding (SAW), leading to greater efficiency and cost savings. Additionally, tailored flux formulations enhance mechanical properties and corrosion resistance in specialised applications such as offshore, nuclear, and automotive welding while also ensuring compatibility with automated and robotic welding systems for consistent, high-quality welds with minimal manual intervention.

Dr. Krishnan Sivaraman, Industrial Welding Expert and Associate Dean of R&D and Industrial Liaisoning at Fr. Conceicao Rodrigues Institute of Technology, shares that advanced flux compositions contribute to stronger, more reliable welds by improving weld quality, reducing defects, and enhancing efficiency, making them indispensable in high-performance welding applications.

Hydrogen for welding

Naturally, hydrogen gas is not present in the atmosphere. It comes in the weld metal by dissociating moisture in the flux coating during welding. The flux coating has a natural propensity to pick up atmospheric moisture. So, if an electrode is kept open for some duration, it picks up moisture and when it picks up moisture, that moisture during the welding arc dissociates.

The solubility of hydrogen in steels is mainly dependent on their crystal structure, temperature, and composition. It is way more soluble in austenite than in ferrite.

The diatomic hydrogen gas reacts with the steel and is dissolved in atomic form. The hydrogen solubility in steel increases with temperature and ranges from less than 1 ppm at room temperature to about 8 ppm at 704⁰C.

Nickel makes steel absorb more hydrogen, while molybdenum has no effect. Tungsten reduces hydrogen absorption, whereas vanadium, titanium, niobium, zirconium, and tantalum increase it, especially at lower and moderate temperatures.

Somnath Chakravarty, head of research, development and quality (Welding Consumables) at Ador Welding Limited, explains that hydrogen cracking occurs when hydrogen atoms diffuse into the metal and form hydrogen molecules in tiny voids. The pressure from these molecules can cause the metal to crack. Hydrogen cracking can occur immediately after welding or a short time later. It can occur in the weld metal or the heat-affected zone. High-strength, low-alloy steels are particularly susceptible due to their poor ductility or elongation properties.

Low-hydrogen electrodes play a critical role in welding high-strength steel structures or components. They help mitigate the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC), which is also called cold cracking or delayed cracking. 

Hydrogen presence, susceptible microstructure, and residual stresses are the primary factors contributing to hydrogen-induced cracking. Low-hydrogen electrodes are designed to minimise the hydrogen diffused into the weld metal, thereby mitigating the risk of HIC. 

These electrodes have low moisture content in their coatings, allowing them to diffuse less hydrogen during welding. Low-hydrogen electrodes also contain more basic compounds that reduce impurities and oxygen levels in the weld, resulting in cleaner, tougher, and ductile welds resistant to cracking.

Filler metals

Manufacturers use various filler metals and process techniques in conjunction with relevant filler metals to improve deposition rates and reduce welding time. 

Nagarjuna Hariprasad, Product Manager – Filler Metals, ESAB, shares that “Flux-cored, metal-cored wires, with their higher current density, melt faster than solid wires, providing higher deposition rates and reduced welding times. Gas metal arc welding with higher diameter wires like 1.4/1.6 mm in conjunction with a twin wire process setup helps significantly improve deposition rates. 

Submerged arc welding with various combinations of wire diameters like 3.15/4.00/5.00 mm and process variants like twin wire, tandem, tandem-twin, and  3/4/5/6 multiwire can boost the deposition rates from 20 kg/hr to more than 100 kg/hr. Robotic and mechanised systems and compatible filler metals help significantly reduce weld time and improve multifold productivity.”

Filler metal technology advancements enable faster welding processes, higher deposition rates, and improved efficiency across industries. Filler metal composition can be made to format and deploy application techniques. With this, manufacturers can reduce welding time while maintaining high-quality standards.

High-deposition filler metals improve welding efficiency by increasing deposition rates, optimising chemical composition, enhancing automation compatibility, and reducing preheating and post-weld work.

Metal-cored (MCAW) and flux-cored (FCAW) wires offer higher deposition efficiency with lower spatter and deeper penetration, while high-efficiency submerged arc welding (SAW) consumables enable deep fusion with fewer passes, significantly cutting welding time. Modern filler metals incorporate controlled alloying elements like manganese and silicon to enhance wetting action and bead shape, while low-spatter formulations minimise clean-up time, boosting productivity. These filler metals are also designed for robotic welding, ensuring consistent high-speed performance with improved wire feed speeds that allow faster deposition without compromising weld quality. Additionally, low-hydrogen formulations help lower preheat requirements in high-strength steel applications, and improved slag control in flux-cored and SAW processes minimises post-weld clean-up, streamlining the entire welding process.

Welding consumables for dissimilar metal joining (DMJ)

When two dissimilar metals are joined, it is important to note that the joined metals have different characteristics, which can affect the quality of the weld. Before choosing a method, evaluating the filler material and the adjoining metals is necessary. The common methods for dissimilar metal welding include- Gas metal arc welding (GMAW), Laser welding, Friction welding and Electron beam welding.

A couple of cares and pre-weld processing ensure superior weld quality: specialised filler materials that act as a bridge between dissimilar materials complement the joining materials’ characteristics while precoating and surface treatment also help with the seamless joining of dissimilar materials. Additionally, filler material that can withstand extreme temperatures and has better blotting properties further enhances the joining of dissimilar metals.

Dr Sivaraman adds that DMJ is essential in aerospace, automotive, and power generation industries, where combining different metals enhances performance and reduces costs. However, challenges such as thermal expansion mismatch, brittle intermetallic compounds, and corrosion must be addressed.

Innovations in welding consumables have significantly improved DMJ by introducing advanced filler materials like nickel-based, copper-based, and hybrid alloy fillers, which enhance strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. Additionally, flux-cored and metal-cored wires with tailored compositions improve joint toughness and arc stability. Smart coatings, including nano-enhanced electrodes and active flux coatings, further optimise metallurgical properties. Specialised consumables for innovative welding techniques, such as cold metal transfer (CMT) wires for aluminium-to-steel applications and friction stir welding (FSW) consumables for solid-state joining, have also emerged. Corrosion-resistant electrodes, such as high-entropy alloys (HEA) and duplex stainless steel fillers, ensure durability in extreme environments.

Sustainability trends

Mr Hariprasad thinks that environment-friendly welding machines are an inevitable choice for the manufacturing industry as they strive to meet sustainability goals.

Due to the power-intensive nature of welding and cutting, companies invest in innovative technologies and products that reduce power consumption, thereby conserving natural resources. The advanced range of welding equipment features state-of-the-art inverter technology, which enables high-speed switching. This allows for using smaller transformer coils and magnetic cores while maintaining efficiency. Additionally, the products are designed to prioritise material compliance, recyclability, and repairability, minimising environmental impact by reducing material waste and pollution.

Mr Chakravarty shares an example of innovation with Rhino E by Ador India’s first battery-powered welding machine, designed with a strong emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and noise levels. 

Similarly, stricter sustainability norms force organisations to relook at their environmental impact. Inverter-based technologies are replacing diesel welding generators with a lower environmental impact. Organisations are upgrading to ensure that welding machines adhere to the most recent pollution norms, and there is an increased use of environmentally friendly packaging for transportation and storage. Factories are also working to reduce air, water and noise pollution.  

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Dr. Krishnan Sivaraman, Industrial Welding Expert and Associate Dean – R&D and Industrial Liaisoning, Fr Conceicao Rodrigues Institute of Technology.

Stabilising additives ensure better arc control, smoother arcs, and higher deposition rates, particularly in submerged arc welding, leading to greater efficiency and cost savings.

Somnath Chakravarty – Head, Research, Development & Quality (Welding Consumables), Ador

The automotive industry is adopting new welding technologies, such as the Hot TIG process, thin sheet welding, and hybrid welding,  to aid component manufacturers.

Nagarjuna Hariprasad, Product Manager – Filler Metals, ESAB

Sustainability trends influence the development of environmentally friendly welding machines. Companies invest in innovative technologies and products that reduce power consumption and conserve natural resources. 

Schaeffler is showcasing innovative hydrogen technologies at the Hannover Messe. The company offers solutions for the production and use of hydrogen, including electrolysers with outputs of up to 1 megawatt, fuel cell stacks, and bipolar plates featuring the Enertect coating.

The motion technology company Schaeffler is showcasing innovative technologies for the future field of hydrogen at the Hannover Messe. The company takes a holistic view of the hydrogen value chain and, with its decades of product expertise, offers solutions for the production and use of this sustainable energy carrier. At the Hannover Messe, Schaeffler presents electrolysers with outputs of up to 1 megawatt, as well as fuel cell stacks and bipolar plates featuring the innovative Enertect coating. This multi-award-winning coating is free of precious metals and excels in hydrogen applications due to its exceptional electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Florian Windisch, head of the hydrogen business unit at Schaeffler, said, “Schaeffler’s goal is to drive the energy transition and thus the decarbonisation of various industrial sectors. To achieve this, industrial-scale production of green hydrogen is crucial. At Schaeffler, we focus on the entire hydrogen value chain – from production via electrolysis to the use of hydrogen in fuel cells.”

Electrolysers for industrial applications

At the Hannover Messe, Schaeffler demonstrates how the use of green hydrogen in production can contribute to the energy transition in the industrial sector. At the heart of the display is a 1-megawatt electrolyser capable of producing around 450 kilograms of hydrogen per day. Schaeffler’s product range includes Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser stacks with scalable outputs ranging from 50 kW to 1 MW. Smaller electrolysers are also available without membranes, making them ideal for research and development projects.

A key advantage of Schaeffler’s electrolyser is its robust design, which enables a high power density due to a large active cell area. These characteristics make PEM electrolysers highly versatile and particularly suitable for demanding applications where efficiency and reliability are essential. They can be integrated into hydrogen production systems on a small, medium, or large industrial scale – from decentralised commercial applications to hydrogen production linked directly to renewable energy sources, as well as hydrogen supply and refuelling systems.

Innovative fuel cell stacks and bipolar plates

Another element of the hydrogen value chain is the use of hydrogen. Schaeffler is presenting an innovative fuel cell stack that, despite its low weight of less than 0.5 kg/kW, offers a particularly high power density for e-mobility applications. The fuel cell stack features an advanced bipolar plate coating system that can be customised to meet specific customer requirements. The company has also developed the Enertect coating family, which can be used in both electrolysers and fuel cell systems. Enertect is free of precious metals and offers extremely high corrosion resistance. The coating reduces the CO₂  footprint of the bipolar plate by more than 75 per percent and significantly increases the efficiency of both fuel cells and electrolysers. The entire manufacturing process for the metallic bipolar plates takes place in-house at Schaeffler.

Schaeffler at the Hannover Messe

Schaeffler’s innovative hydrogen technologies are on display at the Hannover Messe from March 31 to April 4, 2025, in Hall 5, at Booth D18. Additionally, Schaeffler has a dedicated hydrogen booth located in Hall 13, at Booth E41/1. As part of the Schaeffler programme, a presentation titled “Metallic Bipolar Plate Production: Challenges & Mitigation Strategies” will take place on April 2, 2025, at 1:45 p.m. This event is part of the “Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe” programme in Hall 13, Booth A30.

Schaeffler is showcasing its expertise in the industrialisation of humanoid robots at the Hannover Messe. The company is focusing on the industrialisation of humanoid robots, which are crucial for efficient and agile production systems in the future.

At the Hannover Messe, the motion technology company Schaeffler showcases its product expertise in the industrialisation of humanoid robots. Humanoids will play a key role in the industry’s future, as they can be readily deployed in existing work environments and significantly improve process efficiency. Building on its eight product families, Schaeffler offers a broad product portfolio to give manufacturers of humanoid robots a technological edge. As an integrator who is already using this future technology in its factories, the company understands the high requirements for key components such as bearings and actuators and incorporates this knowledge into its own product development. The industrialisation process is supported by the high level of vertical integration that has characterised Schaeffler for decades.

Andreas Schick, Chief Operating Officer, Schaeffler AG, said, “As a technology partner across all areas of motion, Schaeffler is in an ideal position to revolutionise industry with its innovations for humanoids. Humanoid robots are crucial for the efficient and agile production systems of the future. Schaeffler is already a strong partner in their development, supplying key components to major players in this field. Our comprehensive expertise in product and manufacturing technologies allows us to effectively establish and actively advance this disruptive technology in the industrial environment.”

Key technologies for humanoid robots

As a user of humanoid robots in the production environment, Schaeffler has sound knowledge of the exact requirements for components used in humanoid systems. Due to this expertise and its innovative product range, Schaeffler is transferring proven technical solutions to humanoid robots and systematically driving their ongoing development.

On average, humanoid robots have 25–30 joints, the effectiveness of which is largely dependent on the precision and robustness of the components used within them. Schaeffler’s innovative XZU double-row angular contact needle bearing was originally designed for industrial robots. A lightweight variant and more compact design variant of the XZU bearing have been developed by Schaeffler specifically for the humanoid market. Thanks to improved friction behaviour and high tilting rigidity, these bearings allow the movements of humanoid systems to be controlled more efficiently and precisely.

Schaeffler offers a broad range of key components for humanoids, like linear and rotary drive assemblies. Thanks to its longstanding experience in the automotive sector, Schaeffler is extending its high standards in drive technology to humanoid robotics. This results in scalable solutions that meet the requirements of the industry. Schaeffler’s rotary gearboxes and linear actuators, such as ball and planetary roller screw assemblies, can be used in various humanoid joints to achieve optimum functionality and efficiency.

At the Hannover Messe, Schaeffler is also presenting a wide range of sensor solutions. Humanoid robots must be capable of precise gripping or touching, so sensitive and ultra-modern sensors are crucial components. The company will present innovative linear sensors that detect longitudinal movements and can therefore substantially increase the perception range of humanoids.

In the electric motor segment, Schaeffler is showcasing high-performance, scalable product solutions. Originally developed for e-mobility, Schaeffler’s electric motors and power electronic solutions can be used in the drives of humanoid limbs and joints. Thanks to the merger with Vitesco Technologies, Schaeffler has substantially enhanced its expertise in these areas of technology and now has additional capabilities and competencies in the vertical integration in the development of components for humanoid applications.

David Kehr, president of Humanoid Robotics at Schaeffler, said, “At the Hannover Messe, Schaeffler will showcase its product solutions for humanoid robots for the first time. Our goal is to be a strong technology partner to manufacturers of humanoids. With our in-depth system knowledge, we are in a position to supply products optimally designed for the humanoid market. Schaeffler will leverage its outstanding manufacturing capabilities to scale up these technologies cost efficiently as soon as the demand for humanoids increases.”

Schaeffler at the Hannover Messe

Schaeffler is displaying its innovations in eight product families at the Hannover Messe from March 31 to April 4, 2025, in Hall 5, Booth D18. Schaeffler also has a booth in Hall 13 (E41/1) focusing on solutions for the generation and use of hydrogen.

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS’ MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units can achieve output torques of up to 282,000 Nm and powers of up to 6,000 kW. The Dutch system manufacturer Jongia Mixing Technology developed a concept where two high-performance agitators per tower ensure the biogas production. This is implemented using MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units.

Despite being relatively new, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS’ MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units are among the established drive solutions for heavy-duty applications. Apart from conveying, lifting and driving, mixing and agitating are among the most important application areas. For the agitators in a non-standard biogas plant in the Netherlands, the powerful industrial gear units significantly contribute to the implementation of gas production.

MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units from NORD DRIVESYSTEMS can be found in all industrial applications where high performance and high ratios are required. They achieve output torques of up to 282,000 Nm and powers of up to 6,000 kW. Their torsionally rigid, one-piece UNICASE™ housing ensures a long service life as it can handle high axial and radial loads. NORD is the only manufacturer that builds industrial gear units of such dimensions and specifications with a one-piece UNICASE™ housing. Through continuous development of the series, the system manufacturer of drive solutions serves more and more industry-specific requirements, for example, sizes with extended centre distance for use in lifting gear.

Powerful mixing requested 

An important application area is agitating and mixing, which is essential in biogas plants, for example. Only by thoroughly blending the products to be fermented, a homogeneous mass is obtained that provides optimum ambient conditions for microbes with regard to temperature, viscosity and acidity. If the microbes are active, they produce sufficient biogas. The biogas plant expansion of the Dutch Smits Groep’s large-scale agricultural unit, however, presented the designers of the mixing technology with a challenge. Contrary to standard practice, the rotating agitators had to blend a rectangular base of about 1,200 m² instead of a circular one. Another difficulty was the fact that more concrete pillars than roof girders had been placed in the towers.

ATEX-compliant and powerful 

The Dutch system manufacturer Jongia Mixing Technology developed a concept where two high-performance agitators per tower ensure the biogas production. This is implemented using MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear units. Each agitator with 4.5-metre agitator shafts is driven by a NORD industrial gear unit. The application uses a total of 16 ATEX-compliant gear units with a speed ratio of 123:1, powers of 37 kW and an output torque of almost 29,000 Nm.

The biogas plant has been in operation for almost one year now. The Smits Group is satisfied. They already plan the construction of another biogas plant with eight fermenters to further increase their biogas volume. Once again with the participation of Jongia and NORD.

Software specialist Augmentir, based in Horsham, Pennsylvania, is presenting a smart co-pilot for industrial personnel at HANNOVER MESSE 2025.

Many industrial companies want to digitally network human work on the factory floor. However, good intentions often fail due to a lack of time. At HANNOVER MESSE 2025, software maker Augmentir presents how its AI assistant can make the transformation easier.

At the centre is Augie, a smart co-pilot developed specifically for connected production and maintenance. He uses generative AI to provide targeted support for skilled workers in their work. This involves much more than just questions and answers. Augie starts with the digitalisation of standard operating procedures (SOPs). In doing so, he converts paper-based or digital content directly into structured work instructions. Now, all you have to do is take a photo of a notice with safety instructions to turn it into an interactive checklist. Existing Word, Excel, PDF or JPG files are automatically converted into dynamic content that guides industrial workers at their workplace. Initial practical applications show that SOPs can be digitised 85 per percent faster this way.

The effort required for onboarding new employees also decreases significantly, by up to 72 percent according to Augmentir. This is because Augie can create interactive training modules with tests and solutions in a matter of seconds. To do this, it uses content from manuals, videos or existing tests. This also helps with further training: based on integrated skill management, the system tailors the content precisely to the user’s level of knowledge and practical experience.

Augie also comes into its own during operation. If, for example, a specialist notices a problem with a system, the assistant analyses relevant documents in a matter of seconds. It then provides precise explanations, including instructions for troubleshooting. In practice, this has led to an average of one-third more productivity.

For multinational teams, Augie’s language intelligence is a game changer because content is instantly translated into any language. Forms and quality reports are also available in multiple languages in seconds. This reduces the risk of misunderstandings and errors at work, thus increasing quality and promoting occupational safety.

Where many older employees are retiring, it is important to secure their knowledge. Augie helps by capturing the answers of experienced specialists from chats and – after checking them – storing them in a knowledge database. If needed, Augie can also use them to automatically create new training modules.

The AI assistant transforms operational data into usable knowledge by creating graphics and statistics directly. This makes it possible to make decisions faster and on a more informed basis. Augie is deeply integrated into Augmentir’s Connected Worker platform, enabling companies to take advantage of the latest AI developments. Whether it’s autonomous maintenance, compliance with occupational safety and health regulations, or more systematic shift handovers, Augie is designed to help companies get the most out of their data and increase productivity.

This year, the Munich-based company has clinched the coveted HERMES Startup Award. ecoplanet impressed the independent jury, chaired by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Holger Hanselka, President of the Fraunhofer Society, with its intelligent energy management solution. The award was presented by Cem Özdemir, Germany’s Federal Minister of Education and Research, during the official opening ceremony of HANNOVER MESSE on March 30, 2025.

The award-winning product, the ecoplanet Cockpit, is an AI-powered platform designed to help businesses analyse their energy consumption in real time, optimise the use of dynamic pricing, and maximise the integration of renewable energy sources. The platform enables companies to reduce energy costs by up to 20 per percent while significantly cutting their CO₂ emissions. Additionally, this comprehensive solution automates energy monitoring, procurement processes, and grid fee optimisation, offering businesses greater transparency, improved planning capabilities, and a clear competitive edge.

Jury Chairman and President of the Fraunhofer Society, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Holger Hanselka, stated, “Intelligent energy monitoring is a crucial component of our energy transition. When companies succeed in optimising their consumption, they can save substantial amounts of energy, significantly reducing both CO₂ emissions and operational costs. ecoplanet is a startup company that supports businesses in this endeavour with its remarkable AI-based platform: within just three years, it has demonstrated measurable cost savings for its customers. ecoplanet focuses particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises, helping them reduce greenhouse gas emissions. On behalf of the entire jury, I sincerely congratulate them on their well-deserved award.”

Presented annually by Deutsche Messe, the HERMES Startup Award honours companies founded within the past five years offering a product or solution that demonstrates an exceptional degree of technological innovation. The award is traditionally presented during the opening ceremony of HANNOVER MESSE.