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Austria's foundry industry: tradition meets innovation
Austria has a long tradition in metal processing and foundry technology. Despite global challenges, the industry asserts itself through innovative strength, high quality standards and sustainable production processes.
Market structure and importance of Austrian foundries
There are around 70 foundries in Austria that produce a wide range of cast parts. The main customers are the automotive, aviation and mechanical engineering industries.
Aluminum and magnesium die casting in particular play a central role. "We have complex parts. The more difficult, the better", explains Adolf Kerbl, Managing Director of the Association of the Metal Technology Industry. In addition to small, highly optimized components for optical systems in the automotive sector, the industry also produces large components such as door frames. Close cooperation with universities and research institutes also enables the development of new, even more efficient materials.
Technological developments:
Automation and sustainability
Automation and digital processes are on the rise in the Austrian foundry industry. Smart foundries use AI for quality control, while 3D printing processes accelerate the development of new components. "Above all, digitalization means close collaboration with customers: Development processes are now fully digitalized", says Kerbl, adding that companies are increasingly focusing on resource-saving manufacturing processes, for example through the use of recycled metals and energy-efficient melting technologies. New sensor and measuring technologies also improve process control, which leads to a further reduction in rejects and material waste.
Challenges: Energy prices, environmental regulations and a shortage of skilled workers
Rising energy costs and strict environmental regulations are putting pressure on the Austrian foundry industry. Increasing regulatory requirements and volatile raw materials markets require continuous adjustments in production. Another problem is the shortage of skilled workers, which is being addressed with training programs and university collaborations. “We have set up endowed professorships and apprenticeships to secure qualified specialists,” explains Kerbl. The Austrian Foundry Institute in particular plays a central role in training. In addition, companies are increasingly focusing on automation in order to make processes more efficient and compensate for the increasing shortage of workers.EUROGUSS 365 newsletter
Register so that you don't miss any information and news from the die casting industry!Prospects: Opportunities and the future of Austrian foundries
The industry will continue to focus on innovative technologies and sustainable production. International cooperation and increased research work could bring decisive competitive advantages. Kerbl emphasizes that technological developments and high quality standards are the key to competitiveness.
Despite the challenges, the Austrian foundry industry has the potential to secure its strong market position in the long term. In order to survive on the international market, companies need to invest more in digital process optimization and environmentally friendly production methods. Experts see great opportunities for Austrian foundries, particularly in the fields of electromobility and lightweight construction, as innovative and particularly precisely manufactured components are in demand here.
EUROGUSS as an exchange platform
For the Austrian die casting industry, EUROGUSS is an important trade fair for presenting innovations and forging partnerships. “EUROGUSS is a solid exchange platform for international networking,” says Kerbl. In addition to companies, the Austrian Foundry Institute is also represented to discuss and promote current developments. By participating in the trade fair, Austrian foundries can present their technological advances and innovative production methods to a broad specialist audience. The trade fair also offers opportunities to enter into new collaborations and tap into international markets.Sustainability as a principle of the foundry industry
Adolf Kerbl emphasizes: "The foundry is a classically sustainable area. Everything that is produced as waste is reused." In fact, Austrian companies are committed to a closed cycle: Old components are recycled and reused in new production processes. Optimized melting technologies can further reduce material consumption.
Sustainability is therefore not just a trend, but a lived practice.
