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Risk-based OT security: A practical guide to help plant operators and asset owners get started with risk management and threat evaluation
VDMA Austria members met to discuss the future of edge computing
As part of the online event "Usability and user experience (UX) in mechanical and plant engineering", a survey was conducted among the participants on June 2, 2025 to obtain an up-to-date picture of the current mood.
The commercial use of space, known as New Space, is opening up new digital business models for the mechanical and plant engineering and software industries - that is the conclusion of the latest episode of the VDMA Industry Podcast.
Electronics experts agree: data-intensive applications in agriculture need one thing above all else - sufficient bandwidth.
The Mechanical Engineering Summit in Berlin is the "place to be" for young entrepreneurs
The 31st CIMAC World Congress brought together around 1000 experts from the fields of combustion engines, drive technology and power generation in Zurich.
Learn more about trends in machine vision!
The digital transformation in mechanical engineering is also reflected in total IT costs, which have been rising at an average rate of 5% per year faster than sales since 2017.
The General Assembly of VDMA Wireless Communications for Machines took place on May 6/7, 2025 in Frankfurt.
Industrial SMEs must also rely on intelligent production processes and artificial intelligence. However, the digital transformation requires a profound change in mentality.
The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has published a recommendation for action for manufacturers of networked medical devices to reduce vulnerability to cyber attacks and the manipulation of medical data.
VDMA Measuring and Testing Technology will be exhibiting together with member companies at Automatica 2025 in Munich. The renowned trade fair will present the latest developments and innovations in automation technology from June 24 to 27, 2025
A new VDMA white paper uses case studies to show how artificial intelligence is already being used in processes, products and business models in mechanical and plant engineering.
Industrial security is increasingly important in mechanical engineering as networked systems face growing attacks. The VDMA calls for EU-wide standards and SME support to meet security needs.
At the bauma trade fair in Munich, a groundbreaking demonstrator unveiled the future of mining operations through the integration of the OPC UA Companion Specifications: The OPC 40560 series provides standardized OPC UA information models for mining.
The EU's action plan emphasizes the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. There is a lot of potential for AI, especially in industrial applications. Small-scale regulations must not stand in the way of this.
In economically difficult times, the VDMA supports its members with valuable information and personal advice. Together we will find the right course and strengthen the resilience of the companies.
The machinery industry is calling for a thorough state reform in Germany to increase industrial competitiveness. The EU, too, must get the economic development in Europe back on track.
Find out where you can get information from the VDMA
The digitalization of the service business as the basis for future viability in mechanical and plant engineering.
Not "cheap", but precisely high-quality and therefore "inexpensive". This offers the mechanical and plant engineering industry opportunities not only for new markets, but also for established ones.
VDMA WCM is presenting the Wireless Communications Guide (WCG) at the Hannover Messe. This proves to be a practical tool for selecting industrial wireless technologies.
Data Spaces enable secure data exchange and unlock untapped potential. Hannover Messe 2025 offers the ideal platform to present the current state of the industry.
The VDMA has addressed extensive demands to politicians. What do the parties think? Our overview shows the extent to which the mechanical and plant engineering industry is taken into account in the programs for the federal election on February 23, 2025.
The VDMA is calling for reliable framework conditions for growth and competitiveness in Germany in 2025. Together we can master the challenges of the future. You can find the details in the economic policy positions for 2025.
Erleben Sie am 08.-09. Mai 2025 in Wien spannende Vorträge und Podiumsdiskussionen zu Digitalisierungslösungen im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau.
Hannover Messe will be a showcase for the digital data economy. In the Manufacturing-X forum, the VDMA will present trustworthy data rooms and innovative X projects from various industrial sectors.
Take part in our survey and let us know what you know and think about Manufacturing-X and the opportunities of a data-driven ecosystem.
Agriculture needs data, but not just any data, it needs easily accessible and well-connected data.
The expansion of digital, energy, and transport infrastructure is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. The VDMA calls for better coordination between the federal and state governments to accelerate this process.
Digital transformation is becoming a key issue for success in mechanical and plant engineering. The new short study "Success factors of digital business models" highlights options for action for companies.
The Electrical Automation Association uses this format to provide information on current trends, news and events relating to topics in its industry.
Anyone who needs a spare part is in a hurry. The part number is not always immediately to hand, especially when installed or under operating conditions.
What are the challenges for mechanical engineering due to generational change? What concrete methods and techniques are available for companies to combat the loss of knowledge? What does AI do for us?
Efficient assembly and significantly minimized project risks: is this just wishful thinking? No! Standardized, digitalized processes help your company to achieve exactly that!
On November 28, 2024, VDMA Austria held its annual exchange of experience on Industrial & Product Security in mechanical and plant engineering with 40 participants at the headquarters of the TGW Logistics Group in Marchtrenk.
AMT was founded as a new working group within the VDMA in November 2024. Its Managing Director Daniel Erdmann explains the background in an interview.
VDMA AMT - Advanced Maritime Technology Platform is the new network for automation and digitalization in maritime shipping.
In order to prepare SMEs in NRW for the challenges of cyber security and to sustainably improve the IT security landscape, the state of NRW has created a NIS2 contact point that NRW companies can use.
From 2027, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) will be mandatory for the first products.
The IMPULS study "Tokenization in mechanical engineering" published today analyses Web3 technologies that promise the industry efficiency gains, new financing models and innovative monetization opportunities.
In view of the current weak new machine business in many areas of mechanical engineering, service has become a significant revenue driver. The use of modern digital platforms in service is correspondingly important.
Industry expects a 16% drop in sales; companies must implement the Cyber Resilience Act; VDMA's Manufacturing-X report
The document "Players in the industrial data economy" shows which companies are involved in which projects relating to the data economy. The aim is to enable better networking and learning from each other - both throughout Germany and in Europe.
In cooperation with PwC Strategy& (Germany) GmbH, VDMA Software and Digitalization is conducting an online survey among its member companies on the use of GenAI in mechanical engineering.
VDMA AMT – Advanced Maritime Technology Platform is the network for automation and digitalization in maritime shipping.
Focus on the data economy: the launch of the SCALE-MX transfer project aims to disseminate the results of the Manufacturing-X projects across industry.
The HealthTech working group will be represented in Düsseldorf from November 11 to 14, 2024 with a joint stand (Hall 8a, Stand N34/N35) together with a total of 15 member companies.
Mechanical engineering is at the data source for Industry 4.0, and secure data rooms are essential for their valuable use.
New opportunities in sales and service for machine manufacturers, flexibility and financial stability for their customers - these are the advantages of value-oriented business models such as pay-per-use and equipment-as-a-service.
Industry associations warn of the loss of battery technology of the future
The topic of Manufacturing-X is now of interest to many of our member companies. We receive many questions, which we have compiled and answered here.
In 2024, the VDMA and the ZVEI are once again organizing a forum for the SPS, the "Technology Stage powered by VDMA/ZVEI" with many interesting presentations and panel discussions.
Questioning the status quo, deliberately "producing accidents", deliberately turning existing conventions on their head - finding innovative solutions with new methods.
With more than 80 exhibitors, the 5G and Industrial Wireless Arena is one of the most successful special shows at HANNOVER MESSE. VDMA, ZVEI and Deutsche Messe continue their cooperation in 2025.
Impact on mechanical and plant engineering in conjunction with electrical automation
The mechanical and plant engineering industry does not have to think about cybersecurity alone. Companies that support the manufacturing industry with services and solutions can exchange ideas and cooperate within this expert’s circle.
The VDMA is conducting a survey among its member companies on the state of implementation of the EU Data Act.
At automatica 2025 (June 24-27, 2025), Messe München, in cooperation with VDMA, is once again offering an attractive joint stand for companies from the machine vision industry. Prices for the Full Service Packages start at €9,400.
Hannover Messe 2025 became the stage for drive and fluid technology. In Halls 4, 5 and 6, leading companies presented their innovations for intelligent and sustainable production.
When the Cyber Resilience Act 2027 comes into force, software BOMs will also become mandatory. The VDMA recommends that companies prepare in good time so that they can continue to sell digital products seamlessly.
Startups from all sectors, gather round: At this year's Start-up Summit, young companies with new ideas once again met potential business partners and investors.
Hardly any innovation topic is currently being discussed more intensively than AI - especially in the context of marketing.
The advantages of OPC UA should also be available for electrolysers in the future. A working group with members from VDMA and the OPC Foundation is now working on this.
International working group for the development of OPC UA Companion Specifications in drive technology.
Take advantage of our seminar series "Cybersecurity according to IEC 62443", developed in cooperation with ISA Europe and Fraunhofer IOSB, to acquire your personal ISA certificate as an ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Expert.
The digital transformation in mechanical and plant engineering is becoming increasingly noticeable, especially on the store floor.
The DWNRW hubs are five regional centers for the digital economy in North Rhine-Westphalia. They are contact points for start-ups and established companies looking to collaborate with them.
100 experts met on 28.06.2024 at the VDMA Summit on "Digital Product Passport: IT solutions for the textile industry". Organized by the Textile Machinery Association with Global Textile Scheme.
Trade visitors to AMB 2024 in Stuttgart from September 10 to 14 can find out about the new, internationally sought-after OPC UA Companion Specification for Cutting Tools for the manufacture of cutting tools.
The VDMA Industrial Security Working Group publishes the OT Risk Cookbook
What undiscovered opportunities are hidden behind technical documentation and how can valuable business models be created from it? An interview with Volker Granacher (tecteam GmbH) and Lars Kothes (kothes GmbH).
The Industrial Security working group makes the complete Supply Chain Security document series freely available
Overview of events on innovation
What is behind the X in Manufacturing-X? A groundbreaking concept that goes far beyond the exchange of data between companies. It is the key to collaboration within and between industries.
Autonomous mobile robots (AMR) are a new category of robots that are expanding the range of applications for robotics and will also play a key role on the road to the fully networked factory ("smart factory").
In an era characterized by advanced wireless communication technologies, the mechanical engineering industry is faced with the challenge of integrating not only innovative solutions, but also safety in potentially explosive environments.
With the establishment of the VDMA Forum Manufacturing-X, the VDMA is bundling and coordinating all activities on this topic for its member companies and stakeholders.
This year, the Companion Specification groups are organising a series of digital events in the summer starting mid-May to present their interfaces and their content and to exchange ideas with interested parties.
A text file on the website for better cyber security? Manufacturers can achieve this with security.txt. A simple and essential step towards addressing vulnerabilities.
Industry 4.0 has given German and European industry a leading role in automation. Now it's all about the world of digital business models and secure data exchange. The concept is called "Manufacturing-X".
Under the motto "Talk&Share", AG WCM offers a practical format for the use of wireless data transmission technologies in mechanical engineering.
OPC UA for Mining – External Standards – Part 1: IREDES
The "Industrial Joining Technologies (IJT)" initiative focuses on all joining technologies that are used in various manufacturing processes such as riveting, welding, bonding and screwing.
The EU Data Regulation came into force on January 11, 2024. A VDMA FAQ document has been compiled and updated to provide non-binding guidance.
AI is playing an increasingly important role for companies in the mechanical and plant engineering sector. VDMA Software and Digitalization is therefore once again offering an interesting range of formats on the topic for all VDMA members.
The OPC UA Companion Specification 40530 has been finalised by the Joint Working Group and the final document is now available for download on the VDMA and OPC Foundation homepages.
Student theses demonstrate the importance and diversity of digitalization opportunities in mechanical engineering
The research-oriented pharmaceutical industry plays a decisive role in European economic growth and in securing Europe's future competitiveness in the global economy.
On 26 October 2023, the focus day at the Future Food Factory OWL of the Ostwestfalen-Lippe University of Applied Sciences (TH OWL) revolved around the topic of sustainability through digitalization in food production.
In order to achieve the predicted political goals in the field of hydrogen, the "robotics and automation" sector will become a decisive player for the necessary scaling of hydrogen production capacities.
The Industrial Metaverse - what added value does it offer? Which use cases are already possible and which hurdles still need to be overcome? A conversation with Michael Schmitt (Capgemini) and Florian Klein (VDMA).
Mahr GmbH presents two digital calipers on loan to umati. The handy demonstrators will make the benefits of the OPC UA interface standard tangible at events worldwide in the future.
Digitization is a decisive key in mechanical and plant engineering to ensure the competitiveness of European industry and thus also prosperity in Europe.
A demand survey among manufacturers of automation technology in the VDMA shows: The industry needs above all larger chip structures
The EU Data Act aims to put data traffic on a new footing, including between companies. This could shift the center of power in the economy. For industrial SMEs, this law is both an opportunity and a risk.
Data is the blood of the complex organism of product development. The results report "Digital Product Development" by the WZL of RWTH Aachen University and the VDMA compactly shows how the many pieces of information can be effectively linked.
As part of the "X-Forge BW" project led by Fraunhofer IPA, a guideline for the use of machine data was created together with well-known companies. This is available for download free of charge.
Description
How to turn your team into a human firewall!
These cybersecurity obligations are coming to mechanical engineering companies
What could a data space for Manufacturing-X look like in the future and what is important? The VDMA and ZVEI's blueprint study provides an impetus for this.
The VDMA Supplier Self-Assessment is a standardised questionnaire that companies can use with suppliers regardless of specific procurement purposes. Highly topical with the mapping of regulatory requirements from MVO and CRA.
Digitalization and Industry 4.0 make many things seem easier and better, including improving processes in production. But this only becomes successful when viewed through the classic lens of lean management.
Wireless communication technologies have developed rapidly in recent years and bring high added value for machine and plant engineering through, among other things, increased efficiency.
For the 7th time, VDMA Software and Digitalization and VDMA Education are offering the "Digitalization in Mechanical Engineering" Young Talent Award, which recognizes outstanding final theses by students. The nomination is made by the supervising uni
Taking the metaverse into account is the right thing to do. However, strict EU rules would be an innovation killer. For mechanical engineering, the Industrial Metaverse offers great potential on the way to climate-neutral production and digitization.
Many companies will have to submit a sustainability report for the first time starting in 2025. Time is pressing, and preparations must begin now. ERP systems can be the decisive helpers here.
With the strategy paper "Robotics and Automation 2028", the VDMA supports the innovation goals from the Future Council of the German Chancellor. It shows the key role of robotics and automation for the transformation of Germany as a business location.
As of July 1, 2023, Dr. Miriam Solera has taken over the management of the VDMA Working Group Wireless Communications for Machines.
