Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Exhibition
April 8, 2025
By: Ichiri Hirakawa, Staff Editor, SEISANZAI Japan
TIMTOS 2025 Report: Part 1
Taiwan TAKISAWA Technology showcased its multi-tasking machine “UX-2000.”
Reflecting a growing demand for process integration, many companies showcased multi-tasking machines.
Victor Taichung, a TIMTOS exhibitor since the first edition, presented its new multi-tasking machine “V TURN Q200”. A representative explained, “Tasks that used to require three different machines can now be completed on a single machine.”
Taiwan TAKISAWA Technology, a subsidiary of TAKISAWA (Okayama City, Japan), introduced the “UX-2000” multi-tasking machine. This year marks its first TIMTOS appearance since joining the NIDEC Group. Jaybang, a manager in the sales department, commented, “In Taiwan, machines capable of handling high-mix, low-volume production are in demand. We want to emphasize that TAKISAWA offers more than just lathes as we expand our market reach.”
Eddie Chuo, Chairman of HIWIN, predicts an economic upturn.
detron Machine showcased rotary tables for multi-tasking machines. John Chiang, Vice President, noted, “Our rotary tables are more durable and longer-lasting than those of our competitors. From a long-term perspective, they offer excellent cost performance.”
HIWIN exhibited a wide range of products, including linear guideways that contribute to carbon reduction and rotary tables for multi-tasking machines. The company has also been focusing on robot-related components, such as reducers and motors. Eddie Chuo, Chairman, remarked, “We are seeing strong demand from the semiconductor, infrastructure, and robotics sectors. Given the historical cycles of Taiwan’s market, we believe this year could signal a turning point toward recovery.”
Taiwan’s machine tool industry is characterized by a high proportion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which have historically built their competitiveness on product originality. This was evident throughout the TIMTOS 2025.
Quaser Machine Tools focused on 5-axis machining centers. Despite their compact size, the machines are known for their high rigidity and large machining area. Startin Hsieh, CEO, explained, “Producing high-performance compact machines requires unique know-how—that technical expertise is part of our DNA. Last year was challenging due to geopolitical issues such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but we’re aiming for a strong recovery towards the end of the year.”
Earth-Chain Enterprise, a manufacturer of chucking devices, showcased its flagship magnetic chucks. The one-touch clamping mechanism reduces cycle time. Although about 40% of its sales currently go to the U.S., the company is steadily building a track record in Japan. Jason Chen, General Manager, said, “We use rare-earth magnets, which have twice the magnetic force of regular magnets, enabling our products to handle heavy-duty cutting.”
Founded in 2018, Main Drive specializes in drive modules for harmonic gear reducers and robotic joints. Chuck Chen, President, said proudly, “We are the only company in Taiwan that can mass-produce harmonic gear reducers. At last year’s Mechanical Components & Materials Technology Expo in Tokyo, our precision technology attracted considerable attention, resulting in a surge of inquiries.”
As Taiwan’s booming semiconductor industry, led by TSMC, also offers opportunities for the machine tool sector. However, better compensation in the semiconductor sector has raised concerns about talent drain, which has fueled interest in automation. Japanese companies at TIMTOS responded with strong proposals for labor-saving and automation technologies.
OKUMA focused on process integration and automation solutions. Dr. Atsushi Ieki, President, commented, “Although the Taiwanese market has been in a slump since 2023, we’ve seen promising developments in the semiconductor sector. Our company, too, has received a number of good orders over the past few months.”
FANUC displayed a wide range of products, from Factory Automation-related equipment to industrial robots, and introduced the “Smart Digital Twin Manager,” which integrates multiple digital twin applications. The system simulates post-machining surface quality based on workpiece shape and condition, eliminating the need for test runs.
YAMAZAKI MAZAK unveiled the “Ez LOADER 20” in Taiwan for the first time.
YAMAZAKI MAZAK introduced its “Ez LOADER 20″ collaborative robot system compatible with its multi-tasking machines and CNC lathes for the first time in Taiwan. It connects with the company’s multi-tasking machines and CNC lathes. Shinji Yamazaki, Director and Managing Officer, remarked, “The labor shortage in Taiwan’s manufacturing sector is becoming more severe. Our automation systems are supported by our local subsidiaries, which provide after-sales support for software and other services—this is a major strength for us.”
Sodick showcased its wire EDM machine “AL400G.” A representative emphasized, “Our proprietary wire rotation mechanism ensures consistently high-precision machining.”
As the weekend approached, the exhibition saw an influx of student visitors. With transportation subsidies and shuttle buses provided by the organizers, some 4,000 students attended this year. By exposing young talent to the international scope of TIMTOS, Taiwan’s machine tool industry aims to promote itself as an attractive career path.
The next TIMTOS is scheduled to be held in 2027. As Taiwan’s machine tool industry continues to face challenging conditions, all eyes will be on how it forges new paths forward.
Earth-Chain Enterprise presented a labor-saving magnetic chuck.
Main Drive highlighted its strength in mass-producing high-precision harmonic gear reducers.
Hartford introduced a 5-axis multi-tasking machine to meet demands for process integration and complex machining.
FANUC featured its “Smart Digital Twin Manager.”
OKUMA promoted its automation systems.
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