CPT International 02/2018

INTERVIEW
“The foundry industry is lagging
behind in digitalization”
Downsizing, CO 2
emissions, reductions in weight and waste gas – these are the most important
points in modern foundry technology. Fill optimizes processes and develops new technologies
stability in tough everyday foundry work. Thomas Rathner, Manager of the Foundry Technology
Competence Centre at Fill, uses this interview with CP+T to explain the company’s view of how
smart automation solutions will change the entire foundry process in future
Mr. Rathner, what effect do you think
Industry 4.0 will have on the foundry
sector?
Machines and plants will be networked
with one another from the
first to the last process step. The
quality of the products manufactured
will be traceable all the way to
the end-user. Plant flexibility will
enable OEMs to actively plan and
control just-in-time deliveries.
Is the digital transformation a revolutionary
or more evolutionary process?
Definitely an evolutionary process
– we cannot, and do not want to,
change all processes from one day
to the next. It is important that we
gradually integrate changes in existing
processes and plants, taking ecological
and economic aspects into
account, e.g. energy efficiency and
output.
Machine assembly in a works hall (Photos Fill)
affected by the digital transformation?
The digital transformation has already
reached us and will change all
areas of corporate activity. Both internal
processes and communication
with customers and business partners
will be completely different in
the coming years. Those who do not
follow this trend will definitely lose
out. Though I see particular potential
in the areas of service, support
and maintenance, where recorded
data (the so-called history) and their
analysis will play an important role.
6 Casting Plant & Technology 2 / 2018