2026 Buyer’s Guide: Metal Forming & Fabricating Product Releases
Laser-cut Any 3D Profile Like no Other
The LT-FREE from BLM GROUP (Novi, MI) features a 5-axis laser cutting head which can laser cut any 3D section: bent, hydroformed, extruded, drawn, flat or stamped tubes and sheets. By integrating operations such as drilling, punching, milling, and deburring into the laser cutting process, the LT-FREE can produce finished parts in a single work cycle, improving productivity while reducing secondary operations and overall cost per part.
Consolidating multiple processes into one system also minimizes the handling and storage of semi-finished components, allowing operators to focus on higher-value production activities. Laser cutting ensures precision and repeatability, producing smooth, burr-free edges that transition seamlessly into robotic welding and downstream assembly.
Multiple configurations, including single or dual workstations equipped with or without a handling robot and rotary turntable, support a range of production requirements from flexible job shop environments to high-volume manufacturing.
Parts can be programmed offline and sent to the machine in minutes. Using the ArGo CAM software, a 3D part can be imported, the work cycle and robot movements programmed, and the cutting process simulated to calculate cycle time, all from your desk. At the machine, operators can easily make adjustments, manage micro-joints, and activate Active Tools through the intuitive touchscreen interface.
Partnership Makes Industrial AI Deployable Today
ABB Robotics (Auburn Hills, MI) has partnered with NVIDIA by integrating NVIDIA Omniverse libraries into ABB’s RobotStudio in order to deliver physical AI for the manufacturing industry, closing the gap from virtual training to real-world deployment with up to 99% accuracy. ABB is the only robot manufacturer with a virtual controller running the same firmware as the hardware, ensuring near perfect correlation between simulation and real world performance.
The collaboration focuses on combining the RobotStudio with the physically accurate simulation power of NVIDIA Omniverse libraries to close technology’s long-standing ‘sim-to-real’ gap. Developers can simulate robots in digital twins and generate synthetic data to train their physical AI models, enabling businesses of all types and sizes to deploy AI-driven robotics for various industrial workflows.
The newly created RobotStudio HyperReality, as it is called, will be available in the second half of 2026. It is expected to fundamentally change how quickly and reliably manufacturers can scale production, reducing costs by up to 40% and accelerating time-to-market by 50%. The RobotStudio HyperReality will serve industrial clients at any scale, across a range of industries and applications. Select customers are already testing its capabilities ahead of its full release.
“For more than 50 years, ABB Robotics has led the evolution of intelligent industrial automation, from pioneering the first generation of fully electric industrial robots to advancing digital twin simulation through RobotStudio and shaping a new area of autonomous and versatile mobile robots,” said Marc Segura, president of ABB Robotics. “Today’s announcement with NVIDIA brings physical AI to industry at scale.”
The resulting physically accurate simulations and foundation models with RobotStudio HyperReality are endlessly optimized with real-world data feedback continuously improving the system. These models can be used to train any number of ABB robots, anywhere in the world, with the reliability and accuracy demanded by industry.
Manufacturers are able to design, test, and optimize production lines virtually, cutting setup and commissioning times by up to 80%, reducing costs by up to 40% by eliminating the need for physical prototypes, and accelerating time-to-market for complex products such as consumer electronics by 50% (according to ABB Robotics analysis).
New Compact Centrifugal Barrel Tumbler Finishing Machine
Mass Finishing Inc.’s (MFI) (Howard Lake, MN) new HZ-6 compact centrifugal barrel tumbler finishing machine achieves high-polished finishes on components significantly faster than traditional manual methods. The machine was scheduled to be unveiled at RAPID + TCT 2026, being held this month.
The HZ-6 is touted as the smallest industrial high-energy finishing machine on the market. A footprint of only 3′-x-2′ allows the machine to easily fit into most production operations without sacrificing finishing speed or quality. An optional stand with large caster wheels provides easy maneuvering across shop floors, and multiple available barrel styles give the machine flexibility to work in nearly any industry.
For the simultaneous finishing of multiple parts, the machine uses the pressure and friction created through centrifugal force to quickly remove excess material and burrs, polish part surfaces and create a uniform finish. The system is quieter than vibratory tumblers and achieves finishes that are isotropic, meaning parts are polished uniformly and evenly in all directions. Such results are typically unachievable with hand finishing.
The machine’s barrel tumbler features two cradle positions, a standard full-size latched-end barrel (8.375″ in length), and two half-size latched-end barrels (3.625″ in length). When using the full-size barrel, the HZ-6 accommodates parts up to 8″ long and 4.5″ in outside diameter, while the half-size barrels are best suited for processing small, micro-precision parts. The barrels require only a small amount of media, which makes for easy iterative testing with different material types and processing diameters. The finishing machine is well-suited for part materials such as titanium, aluminum and Inconel, among others.
Smart, Space-Saving Robotic Bending System
AMADA AMERICA, INC.’s (Buena Park, CA) EGB + COBOT Robotic Bending System is a groundbreaking solution that makes bending automation easier, smarter, and more accessible than ever before. Featuring the new CR010B collaborative robot, the system is designed to simplify automation for small parts, especially for customers with limited space or tight budgets.
Combining AMADA’s high-performance EGB8025e press brake with the CR010B collaborative robot, this compact solution eliminates the need for safety fencing thanks to its built-in laser scanner system, enabling true fenceless automation. The robot is easily detachable, allowing shops to switch between manual and automated bending depending on part complexity or staffing — for example, manual bending during the day and unmanned robotic operation at night.
The EGB + COBOT system reduces operator dependency and stress by automating repetitive, small-part bending tasks. Its simplified programming tool enables fast setup by using existing bend data — eliminating the need for CAM and drastically lowering the barrier to automation.
Other key benefits include:
- Minimal footprint for easy integration into tight production spaces.
- Easy retrofit capability for compatible existing AMADA press brakes.
- Stable, accurate gauging using robot-specific functions and auto-correction tools.
- Flexible production for both low-volume and mass-production scenarios.
This system is ideal for manufacturers looking to take their first step into bending automation or seeking to increase efficiency without large-scale investment.
Nitrogen Generation and Gas Mixing Products Increase Productivity
In a partnership agreement, Bystronic Inc. (Hoffman Estates, IL) and MSS Nitrogen Inc. (Rockhill, SC) supply NitroCubeTM – Bystronic N2 Generation powered by MSS, and NitrO2 Mixing – Bystronic NitrO2 Mixing powered by MSS into the North America market.
MSS supplies the Bystronic Nitrogen Generation and Mixing products and provides installation, training, and service. Bystronic manages the sales and distribution of these products. Bystronic will offer both the NitroCube and NitrO2 products powered by MSS; each model will have a specific scope of application based on the requirements of the customer.
NitroCube is the most compact nitrogen generation system on the market and provides the guaranteed lowest cost and highest purity for nitrogen. It is ideally suited to meet the demands of today’s ever-increasing fiber laser cutting requirements. Typical nitrogen purity generated by the NitroCube is 99.999% and systems are carefully sized using information based on user consumption figures, assuring correct flow and storage capacity.
All NitroCube models deliver pressures at 4,350 psi and are modular and expandable retroactively if required. The standard models provide volumes from 11,000 ft3/day to 42,000 ft3/day. NitroCube high-flow range models provide volumes from 59,000 ft3/day to 169,500 ft3/day and with combined units up to 378,000 ft3/day, while reliably maintaining purity levels up to 99.999%.
There is no longer any need to transport gas. You only produce as much nitrogen as you need, all the additional costs related to rentals, delivery, and replacing cylinders are eliminated.
The NitrO2 Mixing product offers the advantage of inline mixing of nitrogen and oxygen gas sources to create a custom mixture that both enhances edge quality and increases laser cutting speeds by up to three times faster compared to N2 or O2 single supplies. The NitrO2 is compact, portable, and mixes in real-time and supports cutting pressures up to 500 psi. A separate mixing vessel is not required.
Clamshell Split Frame Machine Bevels Compound Angles on Heavy-wall Pipe
A new attachment for ESCO Tool’s (Holliston, MA) split frame machine provides a template which permits multi-angle bevels on heavy-wall pipe with any angle of prep using one carbide bit.
The Esco COHOG® Split Frame Machine has a robust stationary ring machined from 7075 aluminum alloy that is hard coated and supports a custom steel forged, heat-treated and nickel-plated rotating ring using precision tuned eccentric bearings. A new indexable tool slide that attaches to the ring permits multi-angle bevels on heavy-wall pipe with any angle of prep. Featuring a template that guides the cutting bit and a quick reference chart to make any angle of prep, the tool slide attachment is indexable to any pipe size. Producing a quarter inch cut with each pass, it achieves a perfect prep with several passes and uses one easy to change carbide insert bit that has two cutting edges.
Waterjet Systems Deliver Precision Cutting with Power and Simplicity
Flex Machine Tools (Wapakoneta, OH), an American manufacturer and leading provider of machine tool solutions worldwide for metal fabrication operations and more, can configure a FlexJet waterjet system for unique cutting requirements. Customers can choose the pump, cutting head and machine size that is right for the application. FlexJet waterjet systems offer industry leading speed and rapid positioning, with head options ranging from conventional, 5-axis and tilter to multi-head setups.
The multiple cutting head solutions offered for the FlexJet waterjet line provide increased efficiency by multiple heads cutting parts at one time, reducing overall cutting time and cost per part. The multi-head standard package options have two and four cutting heads and can be expanded on.
Also, depending on the application, the multi-head solutions can be paired with higher horse power pumps so there is no performance loss at the individual cutting head.
For consistent abrasive delivery, each head has its own dedicated mini hopper, and each head can be turned on and off independently so only those needed are engaged in cutting. An auto spacing feature makes adjusting the cutting head spacing fast and simple with 48″ maximum and 5.5″ minimum spacing between heads.
FlexJet waterjets are designed to tackle intricate jobs effortlessly with a user-friendly design that prioritizes workflow, increases productivity, and delivers exceptional cutting power. Engineered and built in the USA, FlexJet waterjets are reliable for the most demanding cutting applications. Flex can customize waterjet solutions to match application requirements and provide stellar service and 24/7 remote response. Flex service technicians are located throughout North America.
Portable Band Saw Adapts to Any Job
Grizzly Industrial’s (Bellingham, WA) new portable metal-cutting band saw offers a variable blade speed dial for cutting different materials, versatile clamping options for angle cuts, and it easily converts from a stationary horizontal band saw to a handheld portable saw for DIY projects — even overhead cuts.
“The new T34441 Portable Metal Cutting Band Saw is a highly versatile, all‑in‑one machine that adapts to any job,” said Mike Bergman, project manager, Grizzly Industrial. “Whether making quick, precise free‑hand cuts on the jobsite or locking it into the stand for consistent, repeatable results, it offers the adaptability that will make it the most‑used saw you own.”
This cutoff-style saw is ideal for HVAC, plumbing, and other professionals who need quick, precise cuts for conduit, rebar, pipe, angle iron, or other metal workpieces. The 1 hp motor powers variable speed for customized results, including angled cuts that are simplified with an on/off power switch instead of requiring a trigger hold to keep running.
The included stand is essential for a horizontal metal-cutting band saw operation, making precise angled cuts possible with a support plate for small workpieces and work stop for production work. The two ball-bearing blade guides reduce friction and keep the blade stable, and the easy-grip handle with trigger switch makes extended cutting sessions a breeze.
High Productivity Band Saw Blades for Structural Cutting
The TENNAX™-PRO Bi-Metal Band Saw Blades from The L.S. Starrett Co. (Athol, MA) are designed to cut challenging tubes, pipes, profiles and structural shapes in both single pieces and bundles. Providing lower noise and vibration as well as improved cutting performance, TENNAX-PRO blades outlast and outperform competitive blades, making up to 25% more cuts per blade.
The blades feature high-speed M-42 steel teeth with a special tooth geometry/profile that optimizes the tip profile for tube, pipe and other structural cuts, dissipating stress during cutting for greater resistance to wear and tooth breakage. In addition, the blades are designed with an exclusive tooth-setting process which minimizes pinching when cutting structural and bundled materials.
These band saw blades are ideal for cutting a wide range of materials including carbon steel, carbon steel alloys, stainless steel, and non-ferrous materials. In addition to pipes, tubes, structural and bundled materials, TENNAX-PRO applications include small solids. The blades are available in widths of 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/4″, 1-1/2″, 2″, and 2-5/8″, and can be used with manually operated, gravitational, and hydraulic machinery, making them a versatile and adaptable choice for a variety of applications.
Tube Belt Sander has Large Wrap Angle
The Metabo HPT (Braselton, GA) Tube Belt Sander, RBE 15-180 Set is engineered to tackle small and large pipes, even stainless-steel pipes with ease. It delivers a generous 270° wrap angle for seamless surfaces and efficient results. Powered by a durable 13.5-amp LongLife motor featuring patented dust protection, this sander ensures extended durability and dependable performance.
The Vario-Tacho-Constamatic full-wave electronics with a thumbwheel allow you to tailor the speed, maintaining consistent performance under load. A rubberized drive roller minimizes belt slippage, while the tool-free belt change system and adjustable belt guide simplify setup and transitions. The sander also offers electronic soft start, overload protection, restart protection, and auto-stop carbon brushes. All are designed to preserve the motor’s integrity during operation.
Full Sheet Loader/Unloader: Scale Automation Without Sacrificing Space
The FS2512 from Muratec (a Murata Machinery brand) (Charlotte, NC) automates full-sheet loading/unloading for turret punch presses, doubling throughput with efficient, same-side operation.
Supporting up to 2-ton stacks, it streamlines material flow via forklift or crane and enables lights-out production for extended uptime and maximum productivity.
Designed for flexibility, it handles sheet sizes from 11.81″-x-29.52″ to 49.21″-x-98.43″. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for shops looking to scale automation without sacrificing space.
Level up Your Productivity with Scalable Automated Solutions
The high-level of productivity offered by the LPBB (Laser cutting + Punching + Buffering + Bending) Flexible Manufacturing System from Prima Power North America (Arlington Heights, IL) results from the company’s modular technology and intelligent material flow management.
The compact LPBB sheet metal manufacturing system processes blank sheets into ready-bent, high-quality components automatically.
LPBB integrates punching, laser cutting, intelligent part handling and high-quality bending. Very fast reaction times are expected in modern production. The machine needs to be flexible and extremely fast for a quick response to production orders, often for very small quantities.
There may be a rush order, or a test series to prove delivery capacity; here the laser is often the answer. Again, in longer series punching adds manufacturing speed and cost efficiency, allowing versatile forming and provides competitiveness unmatched by individual laser or punching machines.
The productivity offered by this concept derives from the integration of:
- Versatile servo-electric punching.
- Modern laser cutting.
- Servo-electric bending.
- Automatic, flexible material flow.
- Sophisticated software.
Digitized and Networked Sawing Processes are Indispensable
Thanks to innovative concepts from KASTO Group (Achern, Baden, Germany), the specialist in storage and sawing, machines and systems communicate autonomously with one another, optimizing the entire material flow process.
One product, KASTOlink, enables seamless networking of KASTO saws with other processing machines, storage solutions or warehouse management and ERP systems. It ensures a continuous, digital process chain from order to production. This versatile interface solution not only enables integration with KASTO systems but also flexible connections to machines from other manufacturers. Users can efficiently and transparently network their KASTO products with the entire IT and machine environment through a variety of interfaces.
During the sawing process, users face the challenge of maximizing material usage while minimizing waste to keep resource consumption and costs at a minimum. This is where KASTOoptisaw comes into play. Fully integrated into the KASTOlogic WHM software, it optimally assigns stored bar stock to specific sawing orders, considering various machine parameters such as kerf width and minimum kerf length. It can handle bars, tubes, and profiles of different lengths and miter angles, thereby minimizing waste.
Additionally, KASTOoptisaw assists directly at the saw by automatically determining the most efficient cutting plan by repeatedly exploring various possible section arrangements, combining them to find the optimal solution. Users can also create cutting plans manually using a graphic wizard.
Other digital products include the KASTOapp, which provides mobile control and monitoring of machines within the network; KASTOrespond, which optimizes the settings of the sawing machine, continuously measuring the forces acting on the tool without the need for additional sensors. KASTO also offers a new, smarter and more intuitive next generation control, which features a modern design, smart functions, and a role-based user guide that enhances clarity and efficiency.
Software Suite Delivers More Connected, Efficient and Smarter Sheet Metal Operations
Lantek Systems, Inc. (Mason, OH) offers v.45 of its Lantek Suite Software, which leverages the power of automation with safer part evacuation, flexible and automatic nesting, and multi-angle machining strategies, among other functions.
The suite is designed to provide better connectivity across different factories and departments with improved API and Bend integration. Sheet metal facilities will experience greater nesting flexibility, machining and beveling for complex parts through a complete software offering that is built to address their needs.
Updates to modules in the software suite include: Lantek Expert, Lantek Bend, Assembly to Nesting, Lantek Flex3D, Lantek MES v45, Lantek Integra v45, Lantek iQuoting, and the new 3D Parts Import and Unfolding. This new feature enables faster response time to quote requests by eliminating the need to convert files or rely on external CAD systems. Additionally, costs are significantly reduced because 3D files can be processed directly, freeing engineering teams to perform other tasks. This key feature is delivered as a cloud service to seamlessly integrate into the iQuoting module.
Next-generation Automated Metal Powder Handling System for 3D Printing
Powder handling equipment manufacturer Volkmann USA (Bristol, PA) has introduced the next generation PowTReX metal powder conveying system. Originally introduced in 2018, the newest PowTReX is designed to help metal additive manufacturers produce large volumes of high quality parts using multiple 3D printers at scale. The PowTReX system automatically transfers 3D printing powders from a container or supply hopper, extracts and sieves used powder after a completed build job to remove oversized particles and collects the sieved powder for reuse and return into the printing process.
Featuring proprietary material handling technology proven effective in more than 100 additive manufacturing installations worldwide, the latest PowTReX draws the metal powder from storage via vacuum conveying into a powder buffer, then feeds it to an ultrasonic screener, and collects any agglomerates while permitting on-spec material to be transferred to the printers. The enclosed, explosion-proof system protects the material from contamination and protects workers from contact with the material while also eliminating cumbersome manual handling.
The portable PowTReX may be installed with 3D printers from all printer manufacturers and is suitable for tungsten, cobalt, silver powder, iron, stainless steel, alumina, nickel chrome, copper, titanium, carbide dust, corundum, and other metallic powders. An optional inert gas model is also available.
OPTONICS Brand Launches with the Lz Series 2D Laser Processing Machines
Mazak Optonics Corp. (Elgin, IL) has launched its affiliate brand, OPTONICS, with the Lz Series 2D Laser Processing Machines, designed to redefine innovative and reliable productivity in manufacturing workshops.
Powered by Mazak, the OPTONICS brand offers the combination of a triple advantage: performance derived from more than 100 years of manufacturing cutting-edge technology and the unparalleled support from our U.S.-based service team all at an affordable value.
Key Features of the Lz Series:
- MazakSmoothCUT Technology: Available in 6 kW, 12 kW, and 20 kW, this advanced feature guarantees consistent and reliable beam quality across various materials and thicknesses, optimizing cutting performance and accuracy.
- Dual Pallet Changer:Minimize machine set up time and maximize efficiency with the ability to load/unload one pallet while cutting continues on the other.
- Machine Monitoring Cameras:Two monitoring cameras provide real-time progress checks during processing and setup, enhancing operator visibility and control.
- Dedicated Programming System:A user-friendly touch panel programming system simplifies workflow, reducing setup time and ensuring consistent, high-quality results.
To meet the diverse needs of modern manufacturing, the Lz Series is offered in a range of model sizes, starting with the Lz 3015A, which offers high-quality and accuracy when cutting thin to medium-thickness material and is ideal for compact floor space, and expands into the Lz 6025A with higher power levels and table sizes that allows for producing larger workpieces.
Mazak Optonics believes that true manufacturing strength is achieved through the collaboration of advanced machinery, skilled professionals, and a commitment to overcoming challenges. The Lz Series embodies this philosophy, offering machines that deliver great value with exceptional functionality and performance while fostering a spirit of innovation and productivity.
