The gear manufacturing industry in India is at an important juncture, balancing unique challenges with promising opportunities. In this exclusive interview, we will get into the insights of industry experts to understand how Indian manufacturers are addressing cost pressures, skill shortages, and infrastructure gaps while leveraging advancements in automation and precision technologies. From innovative tool-holding solutions to emerging industrial trends, the discussion explores actionable strategies and groundbreaking innovations that aim to elevate the Indian gear industry to global standards. Additionally, we get an exciting glimpse into what Schuessler is bringing to IMTEX 2025, promising to redefine productivity and precision in gear manufacturing.

• How do you think the gear manufacturing industry in India differs from the rest of the world in terms of challenges, opportunities, and approaches to adopting advanced technologies?

India’s gear manufacturing industry faces challenges like cost pressures, skill shortages, and infrastructure limitations, which slow down the adoption of advanced technologies. However, the growing demand in the automotive and industrial sectors presents opportunities for expansion. While automation and precision manufacturing are gradually being adopted, the focus in India is still on cost-effective solutions rather than the latest innovations seen globally.

• What do you think are the biggest challenges faced by gear manufacturers in India, and how are they overcoming them?

The biggest challenges faced by gear manufacturers in India include cost pressures, a shortage of skilled labor, and outdated infrastructure. To overcome these, manufacturers are focusing on optimizing existing processes to reduce costs, investing in training programs to improve skills, and gradually upgrading infrastructure with government support. Additionally, they are adopting automation and technology where feasible to increase efficiency and maintain quality.

• What makes your tool holding solutions stand out for gear manufacturing processes, especially when working with complex or high-speed applications?
  Schuessler’s tool holding solutions, including our Hawkeye® and shrink fit holders, stand out in gear manufacturing due to their precision, durability, and ability to handle complex and high-speed applications. Hawkeye® technology ensures high accuracy and minimal runout, while shrink fit holders provide superior clamping force, reducing vibrations and enhancing tool life. These solutions improve machining accuracy, reduce downtime, and boost productivity, making them ideal for both standard and advanced gear manufacturing processes.

• How do your shrinking and balancing tool holding systems help improve machining accuracy for gear manufacturers?

Schuessler’s shrinking and balancing tool holding systems enhance machining accuracy for gear manufacturers by ensuring optimal stability and reducing vibrations. The shrink fit technology provides a strong, secure clamping force, while the balancing technology ensures that the holders are perfectly balanced, minimizing any operational vibrations. This results in smoother machining, improved tool life, and more precise gear manufacturing, even in high-speed and complex applications.

• Can you share any examples or insights into how your tool holding systems have or could help Indian gear makers—especially smaller players—overcome machining challenges or enhance their processes?

One example of how Schuessler’s tool holding systems have helped an Indian gear manufacturer, especially a smaller player, is through our work with a customer facing tool stability and vibration challenges during high-speed operations. After implementing our shrink fit and balancing tool holders, they experienced a 25% increase in tool life, along with improved clamping force and reduced vibrations. This led to more precise machining, enhanced production efficiency, and the ability to produce high-quality gears, ultimately helping them stay competitive in the market.

• What are some upcoming industrial trends or technologies that you believe the Indian tooling industry should prepare for in the next decade?

The Indian tooling industry should prepare for several key trends and technologies in the next decade:

• Automation and AI:
  • Increased adoption of robotics and AI will streamline processes, improving precision and efficiency while reducing costs.
• Additive Manufacturing:
  • 3D printing will continue to advance, offering faster prototyping and more cost-effective solutions for complex tooling needs.
• Industry 4.0:
  • Smart factories and IoT will help monitor production in real time, enabling predictive maintenance and minimizing downtime.
• Sustainability:
  • The shift towards eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient manufacturing will become more important.
• Advanced Materials:
  • The use of advanced alloys and composites will enhance the performance and durability of tools for high-demand applications.
    
• As the Indian gear industry continues to grow, what steps do you think are most crucial for ensuring its long-term success and global competitiveness?

For the Indian gear industry to succeed in the long term and stay competitive globally, the following steps are essential:

• Adopt New Technologies:
  • Investing in automation and smart manufacturing will improve efficiency and quality.
• Develop Skilled Workers:
  • Training workers in advanced manufacturing techniques will ensure high standards.
• Focus on Quality:
  • Ensuring consistent quality and meeting international standards will help compete in global markets.
• Go Green:
  • Adopting sustainable practices will improve competitiveness and meet global environmental expectations.
• Invest in Innovation:
  • More focus on research and development will help manufacturers stay ahead of trends and meet market needs.

These steps will help the industry grow and compete successfully in both local and global markets.

• What are you planning to showcase at the upcoming IMTEX 2025?

At IMTEX 2025, we will showcase our innovative Hawkeye® technology, shrink fit holders, and the latest shrink-fit machine with a barcode chip reader at Hall No. 2B, Stall B111. 

Our innovative CEO, Mr. Klaus Schüssler, and dynamic Global Sales Head, Mr. Andy Broghammer, will be present to discuss these cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance precision, efficiency, and productivity in the tooling industry. We look forward to welcoming you!