The global machine tool industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological innovation, sustainability and the emerging needs of production sectors. A key event reflecting these trends is the 34th edition of BI-MU, the leading Italian trade fair dedicated to the machine tool industry, which will be held October 9-12, 2024 at Fieramilano Rho, Milan. This event, organized by UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE and EFIM-ENTE ITALIANE MACCHINE, is an international benchmark covering advanced technologies such as cutting, forming, additive manufacturing, automation and robotics.
BI-MU stands out for presenting a comprehensive approach to the industry, incorporating new technologies and sustainable solutions. Among the most relevant topics it addresses, the following stand out:
RobotHeart: A space sponsored by the Italian Association of Robotics and Automation, focused on industrial robotics, automation and related technologies. This segment attracts companies from sectors such as mechanical, automotive, logistics, pharmaceutical and biomedical.
piùAdditive: Dedicated to additive manufacturing, this space presents advanced solutions for production with additive technologies, such as 3D printing, with the participation of universities, research centers and start-ups.
BI-MU Digital: This section is oriented towards connectivity technologies, sensorization and data security, with a special focus on the digitization of factories. Among the solutions presented are digital twins, predictive maintenance and remote assistance systems.
Metrology & Testing: This space focuses on measurement tools, machine vision, quality control and certification.
Heat and Surface Treatments: Addresses technologies for surface finishing and treatment, with processes such as galvanizing, metallization and nanotechnological treatments.
Revamping & Retrofitting: One of the novelties of this edition is the commitment to recondition and modernize machine tools to extend their useful life, in line with the principles of the circular economy.
Sustainability and digital transformation
BI-MU's commitment to sustainability is clear. The event is organized under the ICIM sustainability certification according to ISO 20121, covering environmental as well as social and economic aspects. This approach is reflected in all exhibition areas, from technologies for sustainable production to intelligent data management systems.
One of the pillars of the trade fair is digital transformation. Smart factories, driven by technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing the way machine tools are manufactured and operated. These innovations allow factories to adapt autonomously to changing market conditions, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Impact on the industry and the global market
With over 65 years of history, BI-MU has been witness and protagonist of the most important changes in the machine tool industry. In this new edition, the innovations presented are expected to set a standard for the future, not only in Italy, but worldwide.
Alfredo Mariotti, general manager of UCIMU, emphasized: “BI-MU occupies a prominent position in the sector's trade fair panorama. In fact, it is the only fair in Italy, and not only in Italy, that can boast such a long history: during its 65 years of existence, it has demonstrated, and will do so again in the next edition, its ability to narrate the technological evolution of the industry, anticipating trends and segments related to the world of machinery characterized by the most interesting development dynamics.”
In addition, the fair is presented as a unique platform for collaboration between companies, universities, research centers and start-ups, fostering collaborative innovation and the development of solutions that respond to current challenges, such as the need for digitization and sustainability.
Cultural and educational projects
To complement the exhibition themes, BI-MU also includes collateral projects of great relevance. These include the BI-MUpiù space, which offers conferences and streaming events, and ROBOTGAMES, a robotics competition aimed at young students, promoting creativity and innovation in automation.
The 34th edition of BI-MU promises to be a key event for the global machine tool industry, consolidating its leadership as a platform for innovation and sustainability. With an offering ranging from robotics and automation to additive manufacturing and digital technologies, the show reaffirms its role as a catalyst for change in a sector facing the challenges and opportunities of the fourth industrial revolution.