Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show Gears Up

Nearly 60 percent of Canadian manufacturers are planning to spend more money on equipment this year compared to 2010, while approximately 30 percent are prepared to spend the same as last year, according to a national survey conducted by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).

Almost half of respondents cited that keeping production costs under control and improving workforce productivity were their most pressing challenges. That means ongoing investment in new technology and processes is not only happening, but continues to play a key role as manufacturers rebound from the economic downtown, said SME Event Manager Nick Samain.

SME is organizing the upcoming Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS 2011). The event, which takes place Oct. 17-20 at the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto, will feature live equipment demonstrations, an industry keynote address, interactive panel discussions, as well as the usual networking opportunities.

"Manufacturers know they need to integrate the latest advances into their daily operations, but the challenge is always how to go about doing so," said Samain. "At CMTS 2011, they can see, hear, and touch the range of potential solutions all under one roof."

Sixty percent of those surveyed are exploring areas for diversification, with 62 percent planning to upgrade their machining and other equipment as part of that strategy. Other areas earmarked for upgrading or diversification include design and engineering (45 percent); processing equipment (38 percent); quality (38 percent); and materials (35 percent).

CMTS 2011 is a showcase for the latest technology, equipment, lean practices, and management strategies in the manufacturing industry, including traditional automation, metal forming, packaging, prototyping, measurement and tooling systems, cutting-edge visualization, nanotechnology, robotics, as well as green and smart-grid technologies.