Singapore, 17 April 2015 - As the industry undergoes a restructuring and gears itself towards high value-added and high-tech production, companies are confronted with a pressing need to rise above traditional boundaries, by embracing new technologies and acquiring new knowledge.

In keeping abreast with current industry trends and newest technological innovations, MTA2015, which came to a close today, provided an ideal platform for Asian companies to access the latest high-tech precision engineering and machine tool technologies available in the global marketplace.

Technologies for 3D printing and robotics have been earmarked by the government as the future of manufacturing. At MTA2015, exhibitor showcases dedicated to demonstrate these capabilities were extremely well-received. In addition, equipment and solutions designed to cater to high-value sectors of aerospace, automotive and oil & gas sectors were also highly sought after.

Flexspeed Technology is one such exhibitor showcasing solutions catered for the Oil & Gas sector. Commenting on the event, the director, Mr K Balanagendra Rao said, "MTA is a very good platform where our existing and potential customers can come and see the new technologies and where we present new ideas, especially for those in the aerospace and oil and gas industries. We sold some machines for the oil and gas industry where the technology used is very important for the sector. We are very pleased with the results."

The 3D Printing Technology tours were very popular with attendees and highlighted the flexibility of the technology for applications across industries such as aerospace, automotive and oil and gas. Creatz3D, DKSH Technology, EOS, Eye-2-Eye Communications and Renishaw were some exhibitors who shared their expertise in the field with visitors.

With demonstrations almost every hour, robots from ABB, Epson and Yaskawa had the show floor buzzing with excitement. Attendees got a first-hand experience of ABB's welding robot, whilst Epson and Yaskawa showcased the precision of their robots, which were programmed to scan items and pick these up in a fraction of the time it takes humans to do. The demonstrations provided attendees with opportunities to expand their knowledge about robotic solutions and how these can enhance productivity for manufacturers.

Elaborating on the solutions, ABB's Mr Ang Boon Hua, Local Business Unit (LBU) Manager, Robotics of the Discrete Automation and Motion Division said, "Robots improve productivity by enabling manufacturers to redeploy or upgrade their workforce, and we see the business potential for the Asian manufacturing industry. MTA is a timely platform for us to share our knowledge with manufacturers as well as enhance our business networks with partners and potential customers from the region."

MTA was also a premier sourcing ground for many industry visitors who came to seek out the latest technologies available. Deals were made, with "Sold @ MTA" signs prominently displayed on many machines and equipment from exhibitors such as Hong Chek, Ichi Seiki, Metalis, NPC, Taipei Industries and Tsugami Universal. Exhibitors were also seen busy networking with attendees at their booths and the discussion areas set up to facilitate meetings.

"This is the first time I am attending MTA. I think it is quite interesting and good to be able to see most machine suppliers under one roof, where we can meet more people and increase our knowledge. The equipment showcased is all updated and most of them use very advanced technology which we have never heard of, and we were surprised that this technology can help us and that is an eye-opener for us. We bought a machine from Flexspeed at MTA and we are looking at buying more machines from other suppliers as well. I think MTA is a very knowledgeable and resourceful event," said Mr Dwaraka Malekar, Procurement Manager of Tech Offshore Marine, Singapore.

Over 20 group delegations from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore attended MTA2015. Groups from the Federation of Malaysian Foundry and Engineering Industries Associations, GE Aviation, Rolls Royce, Pratt & Whitney, amongst others, were at the event to check out the technologies and solutions available.

Featuring case studies on digital manufacturing, Industrie 4.0 and industrial automation, the inaugural "Future Factories and Manufacturing Asia Conference", provided in-depth knowledge and insight into the evolving business and industry landscape for Asian manufacturers.

More than 12,000 attendees from 41 countries/regions, including trade visitors, exhibiting staff, conference delegates and speakers, and members of the press visited MTA2015. The next edition of MTA will be held from 4 to 7 April 2017 at the Singapore Expo.