The countdown is on to Blechexpo & Schweisstec 2025 (Stuttgart, Oct 21–24) – Europe’s premier showcase for sheet-metal, welding, and forming innovation.
But this year, one theme dominates the conversation: AI in metal manufacturing.
Artificial intelligence isn’t confined to software anymore – it’s embedded directly into machines, metrology systems, and smart robotics. From laser cutting to autonomous inspection, these exhibitors are proving that AI now drives real productivity gains, not just buzzwords.
Below, MachineToolNews.ai breaks down every confirmed exhibitor publicly demonstrating AI, machine learning, or intelligent vision technology on the show floor – plus a few automation names worth watching.
TRUMPF – AI-Based Bending & Laser Optimization
Core AI features:
- Flex Cell: AI-driven robotic bending system using self-learning programming to adapt to part geometry.
- TecZone Bend: AI-supported software that automatically generates optimized programs for robots and press brakes.
- AI-assisted laser cutting modules for edge-quality monitoring and burr reduction.
Why it matters: TRUMPF’s integration of AI into bending and laser workflows makes automation more autonomous – reducing programming time and operator dependency.
(TRUMPF Blechexpo focus on automated bending)
Salvagnini – Vision-Driven Smart Manufacturing
Core AI features:
- SVS (Sheet & Scrap Vision System) – artificial-vision module that captures leftover sheet data and generates DXF files for reuse.
- Real-time camera feedback enabling adaptive nesting and zero-waste workflows.
Why it matters: Salvagnini demonstrates how AI-based vision closes the loop between cutting, nesting, and material optimization.
Schmalz + LISSMAC – AI + 3D Vision for Sheet Handling
Core AI Features:
(Schmalz) joint demo with LISSMAC
- AI-driven gripper logic that detects, grips, and positions workpieces autonomously.
- Integrated 3D-vision system enabling flexible part recognition without retraining.
Why it matters: This pairing shows how intelligent handling and deburring can adapt instantly to new part geometries – an early glimpse of “lights-out” metal processing.
( All-About-Industries: Efficiency improvement with AI + 3D vision)
SHL – Autonomous Grinding with AI Path Planning
Core AI features:
- AI-assisted robotic surface finishing using a 3D camera and automatic path planning.
- Eliminates manual teaching for new components; optimizes tool paths dynamically.
Why it matters: Surface finishing is notoriously setup-heavy; SHL’s approach cuts programming time to minutes.
(Blechexpo Highlight – Surface Finishing with Robotics and AI)
AI.SEE GmbH – Vision-AI for Weld & Surface Inspection
Core AI features:
- KI-Vision platform for automated weld-seam and surface defect inspection.
- Scheduled talk in Exhibitor Forum: “Qualitätskontrolle automatisieren: KI-Vision in der Metallverarbeitung.”
Why it matters: Defect detection and quality control are prime examples of AI creating measurable ROI in manufacturing.
Lantek – AI-Enhanced Smart Nesting & Predictive Analytics
Core AI features:
- AI-driven Smart Nesting algorithms for optimal sheet utilization.
- Machine-learning modules for quoting, demand prediction, and production analytics.
- Member of Basque AI Center (BAIC), developing industrial MLOps pipelines.
Why it matters: Lantek applies AI where it counts – nesting efficiency, quoting accuracy, and operational intelligence.
(Lantek Blog – Artificial Intelligence in Sheet Metal Industry)
Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence – AI in Metrology and CAM
Core AI features:
- Autonomous Metrology Suite (2025) uses AI to auto-generate CMM programs and synchronize digital twins.
- ProPlanAI automates CAM programming, cutting setup time by up to 75 percent.
- ML algorithms for real-time inspection feedback and adaptive process control.
Why it matters: Hexagon bridges the digital twin and the real machine – AI-driven inspection accelerates quality loops across entire factories.
(Hexagon – Autonomous Metrology Suite Press Release)
Gessmann – Cobot + AMR Solutions with AI Vision
Core AI features:
- Techman TM12M cobot with built-in camera and AI-based object recognition for autonomous welding and loading tasks.
- Integrated AMR platforms using intelligent vision for obstacle detection and path adjustment.
Why it matters: Gessmann proves that “smart robotics” in fabrication is moving from research to reliable, factory-ready tools.
(Gessmann Robotics – GESSbot with TM Cobot)
Why This Year’s Blechexpo so important
- AI is cross-pollinating every corner of fabrication – design, cutting, bending, finishing, and inspection.
- Exhibitors are showing real, measurable productivity improvements, not prototypes.
- Expect 2025 to mark the shift from “digital factory” to “autonomous cell.”
Click here for our Blechexpo /Schewisstec on our events page a link for tickets
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