Where Precision Meets Intelligence

What does “intelligent manufacturing” mean to you, and how is your organization contributing to this transformation?

The concept of intelligent manufacturing is at the core of Industry 4.0.  It has transformed the conventional manufacturing practices into smart, adaptive and efficient manufacturing.  It involves the use of  digital technologies like AI, Big-data, IoT (Internet of Things), Cloud Computing and Cyber-physical systems.  This facilitates data-based decision making and allows customization and flexibility.

 We have played significant role in this transformation, by offering smart technologies and digital solutions.  We have introduced high-performance tooling and data-driven services.  One of our key contributions is the concept of Mitsubishi Process Solutions (MPS).  This includes tool monitoring, real-time feedback and optimized use of data.    We offer cutting tools with advanced coatings and geometries.  They are designed through AI driven R&D.  As such they manufactured to offer top-class cutting performance with high precision, exceedingly high tool-life and material compatibility.    

Channel partners in a significant way?

We have partnered with renowned Machine Tools Manufacturers like Mazak, DMG , Haas  and so on to ensure seamless working and high performance of our intelligent tools in the Industry-4.0 environment. We also collect the machining data from our customers, of course with their consent in order to improve tooling solutions.  As a part of this initiative we also partner with the leading technical institutes / universities across the world for advanced research in metallurgy and machining solutions.   Our vendors and distributors are also our highly regarded channel partners.  We always try to upgrade their skills by sharing advanced technological knowledge.

How is your company embracing sustainability in machining – from materials to energy and lifecycle design?

Sustainability is at the core of our entire business operations because it is an integral part of our Corporate values : “For People, Society and the Earth”.  We have adopted a very structured approach towards this.   Every step of our manufacturing process, right from sourcing of raw materials, actively integrates sustainability. Our products are ISO-14001 certified. 

 We focus on resource recycling, efficient machining and development of environment friendly products. Over the years we have developed cemented carbide tools, using recycled powder. We are keen to make the use of renewable energy resources and have focused on eco-design of our tools to ensure recyclability.  With the use of advanced coating technology, we have successfully improved heat and wear resistance of our products. As a result, we are providing the tools with higher performance and better longevity.

What role are MSMEs and local suppliers playing in your machine tool ecosystem, and how are you enabling their growth?

In today’s competitive environment the MSME sector and local ancillary suppliers are also trying to pursue the smart manufacturing.  We can see increasing use of AI, automation and sustainable manufacturing at their plants. They are contributing to innovation, supply chains and economic growth. As the suppliers to many leading machine tool manufacturers, they also try to adapt the work-culture of these world-class players, because they want to remain relevant and excel in the cut-throat competition.  They are upgrading themselves in terms of skills, agility and discipline.

As our channel partners, we always support them in every possible way, in their quest for growth.  We share the best manufacturing practices with them and train their workforce, as and when required to deliver the quality.

How do you see digital technologies (like AI, IoT, or digital twins) redefining machine tool applications in the next 3–5 years?

These digital technologies will significantly accelerate the transition towards efficient and smart manufacturing.  AI will have phenomenal impact on smart, data driven decision-making.  It will provide predictive insights, autonomous operations and process optimization.

IoT for that matter will be greatly helpful in ‘connected’ eco-systems, providing real-time monitoring and control.  It will be beneficial for the integration of Production Line, in order to ensure smooth data flow between machines, robots and MES or ERP systems.  IoT can also be effective in the energy management.  Energy consumption across machine tools can be tracked with the help of IoT.

 Digital Twins is the unique technology which can have key impact on the areas like virtual replication for simulation, testing and optimization.  It can also be helpful in lifecycle management of the machine tool, from commission through operation and enable continuous performance improvement of the machine.  It can enable human-machine interaction and enable operators train on machine without disturbing production process.

Talent is a core driver of future-ready manufacturing. How are you re-skilling or upskilling your workforce for the new era?

We have realized the importance of  up-skilling and re-skilling of our workforce at all levels since long time.  As a part of this initiative we organise regular training sessions, workshops, and knowledge-sharing exercise for our team.  We identify their training needs and make an appropriate training calendar.  We have embraced the idea of continuous learning, fostering and culture of adaptability.  We ensure that each of our team member gets diverse training opportunities and exposure to the latest technology.   In today’s competitive environment we invest in training pertaining to important aspects Industry 4.0 like automation, AI, robotics etc.

Apart from this we organise workshops for them on various soft-skills like personality development, leadership and teamwork, critical thinking and so on. More importantly, we also assess the impact of training through the performance and behaviour through an established procedure.

What values or leadership principles guide your decision-making in balancing innovation, business growth, and social impact?

Being the subsidiary company of Mitsubishi Materials Corporation, we are fortunate to inherit the great legacy of the Japanese work culture.   Every thought and action in our business operations are guided by our core corporate value : “For People, Society and the Earth”. However, integration of other values like sustainability, culture of innovation, customer focus, business discipline, social responsibility, transparency, integrity and ethical leadership influence our decision making in balancing innovation