Organised by the publishers of
The Challenge
The machine building and factory automation landscape is evolving faster than ever. Are you confident your organisation is equipped to keep up? Navigating cutting-edge technologies, integrating systems seamlessly, and selecting reliable suppliers can feel like an uphill battle. Meanwhile, the need for cost-efficiency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance adds even more pressure.
Why It Matters
Falling behind is not an option. In an industry where advancements like AI, IoT, and robotics are reshaping the future, lagging in adoption could mean losing your competitive edge. Inefficiencies, escalating costs, and missed opportunities can hold you back when every decision counts.
Your Solution
Welcome to MachineBuilding.North 2025, your ultimate gateway to innovation, optimisation, and future-proofing your operations.
What You’ll Gain:
● Insights that matter: Learn from industry leaders and gain practical strategies to tackle your most pressing challenges.
● Connections that count: Meet trusted suppliers, technical experts, and like-minded professionals face-to-face.
● Tools for success: Experience live demos, cutting-edge solutions, and actionable advice to transform your business.
In just one day, take the leap toward industry leadership.
Explore cutting-edge technologies from AI and IoT to robotics and energy-efficient systems through live exhibitor showcases
Connect face-to-face with industry leaders, technical experts, and trusted suppliers who can deliver the solutions your business needs
Enjoy unique experiences like Concorde simulator flights and guided Concorde tours, plus a complimentary sandwich with tea or coffee, and free parking
From strategic leaders to operational experts and engineering innovators, our workshops and agenda are designed to address your specific challenges and goals
Learn from expert-led sessions and case studies and leave with strategies you can implement immediately to boost efficiency and productivity
Gain practical knowledge from industry experts on emerging technologies and best practices.
| Time | Company | Subject | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30 - 09:50 |
|
Selecting the optimal motor technology for your application |
Festo Presented by Andy Parker-Bates, sales manager, Festo In machine building, various types of motors - servo, stepper, DC, etc - are used, each with their own strengths, However, new motor control developments are opening the possibility of using certain motor types beyond their traditional application areas. By attending this session you will learn: The range of motor technologies available and a comparison of their capabilities Which motor types fit best for different applications. How to make more intelligent choices for your future motion control applications The session will also challenge the traditional way motors are implemented in positioning tasks and expand the scope of what is possible with motion control regarding performance, cost and energy efficiency. Register to attend here |
| 10:00 - 10:20 |
|
Machinery safety legislation - recent changes and what they mean |
Pilz Presented by Alex Bryce, machinery safety specialist, Pilz Automation Technology The machinery safety landscape is ever evolving bringing with it a raft of changes to current legislation to cope with issues such as increasing digitisation and flexibility requirements. Pilz safety specialist Alex Bryce will summarise the changes - covering the migration of the Machinery Directive to the Machinery Regulation plus standards such as ISO 13849, IEC 62061 and ISO 14119 - and will explain what these mean in practical terms to machine builders and end-users alike. By attending this session, you will learn: Which changes have been implemented Which changes are upcoming Which changes are relevant to your business Which actions need to be taken right now Which actions need to be planned for future changes Register to attend here |
| 10:30 - 10:50 |
|
5 minutes to a green light |
SICK Presented by: Charlie Walker, digital solutions consultant, SICK UK The SIG300 is a masterpiece of an IO-Link master which is 'invisible' for the customer; meaning that it simply works reliably and without large integration efforts right out of the box. By attending this session you will learn: Why IO-Link? Robust IIoT interfaces Onboard Logic Editor The heart of Condition Monitoring from SICK Easy PLC Sensor integration via SIG300 & FBF (Function Block Factory) Register to attend here |
| 11:00 - 11:20 |
|
Decentralised and control-cabinet free automation |
Beckhoff Presented by Beth Ragdale, product manager, Beckhoff Automation UK Register to attend here |
| 11:30 - 11:50 |
|
The key technology trends for the next few years |
Lenze Presented by Joachim Hanke, global head of industry sales, Lenze Future of drives describes changes in drive technology in relation to market trends in various segments of factory and process automation. So what challenges will we face, what are the answers today, and what are the possible answers tomorrow? By attending this session you will learn: Market trends Challenges Machine impacts Engineering and support efforts Drive portfolio fit Register to attend here |
| 12:00 - 12:20 |
|
Future-proof your machinery: strategies for smart maintenance |
Omron Presented by David Breckell, market development manager Future-proof your machinery: strategies for smart maintenance This seminar offers a comprehensive exploration into machine maintenance, shedding light on common pitfalls and presenting strategies to streamline and prioritise maintenance tasks for newer machinery. Attendees will learn how effective maintenance not only ensures the longevity and reliability of machines but also stands as a pivotal business driver for machine manufacturers. The discussion will navigate through the intricacies of maintenance procedures, emphasising their role in enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. By attending, manufacturers will gain valuable insights into transforming maintenance from a routine task into a strategic advantage, positioning their businesses for future success in a competitive landscape. By attending this session you will learn: 1. Identification of common maintenance pitfalls and strategies to avoid them 2. Simplification and prioritisation techniques for new machine maintenance procedures 3. Insight into how effective maintenance can drive business growth for machine manufacturers 4. Exploration of maintenance as a strategic business advantage in a competitive market 5. Practical advice for enhancing operational efficiency and machine longevity through smart maintenance practices Register to attend here |
| 12:30 - 12:50 |
|
dryspin lead screw technology |
igus Presented by Rob Day, dryspin product manager, igus UK The dryspin presentation will give an insight into what the dryspin product range offers, along with how this technology can improve applications with increased reliability and efficiency while also eradicating the need for lubrication. By attending this session you will learn: What dryspin lead screw technology is Benefits of dryspin thread form Benefits of igus materials as lead screw nuts Manufacturing methods Online tools igus offers Register to attend here |
| 13:00 - 13:20 |
|
Revolutionising safety in manufacturing and distribution |
Euchner Presented by David Dearden, director, Euchner UK This presentation explores a case study from a major retailer’s distribution centre, highlighting improvements from electronic key exchange systems and networked safety hardware. Attendees will gain insights into improved safety, reduced downtime, and cost savings. By attending this session you will learn: The mechanics and benefits of electronic key exchange and networked safety systems that are setting new standards in industrial safety The critical steps, challenges, and triumphs involved in a major safety technology overhaul Vivid examples of how advanced safety measures can slash downtime, cut costs and dramatically enhance operational safety Actionable insights on adapting and scaling modern safety solutions across various sectors, empowering their own organisations safety and efficiency transformation Register to attend here |
| 13:30 - 13:50 |
|
Driving growth into machinery development across the North of England and beyond |
AMPI Presented by Dan Brooks, Director, Advanced Machinery and Productivity Institute (AMPI) Discover the latest trends and opportunities in the UK's advanced machinery sector, discuss the insights gained from AMPI's Strength in Places Fund pilot programme and what’s in store for AMPI’s future, and learn details of AMPI's Innovation for Machinery funding scheme. By attending this session you will learn: The state of the machinery sector within the UK and lessons learnt from the front line How to have your say in the future of the advanced machinery manufacturing community and support industrial growth across manufacturing If you could be eligible for AMPI's user-friendly funding scheme to support your machinery innovation Register to attend here |
| Time | Company | Subject | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 - 09:45 |
|
IO-Link |
WAGO Presented by Dmytro Shram, automation product manager, WAGO IO-LINK is a point-to-point interface for the low-cost connection of smart/intelligent devices serving the lowest level of automation. Devices at this level were once exclusively 'on/off' types, but increasingly they offer higher performance capabilities such as configuration on-the-fly, higher resolutions and enhanced operations. They incorporate greater processing power and need faster and more intelligent communications with controller devices. IO-LINK serves this need with a flexible solution that is fieldbus-independent. By attending this session you will learn What is IO-Link? IO-Link advantages Who is utilising this technology? The benefits from adopting IO-Link for machines and processes An example of IO-Link integration Register to attend here |
| 10:00 - 10:45 |
|
Machinery Safety in the digital age |
Phoenix Contact Presented by Andrew Maskell, product manager - safety, Phoenix Contact As the digital age takes grip we take a look at how this has effected machinery safety and what steps you should be taking to ensure your systems are not compromised and what tools already exist to deal with this ever expanding issue. By attending this session you will learn: New standards relating to safety and security Technical reports and how they can help Security Risk Assessments in relation to machine safety New safety software programming requirements What this all means to Machine safety validation Register to attend here |
| 11:00 - 11:45 |
|
PROFINET Security |
Indu Sol Presented by Angadh Lambert, area manager, Indu Sol The presentation will provide an in-depth exploration of the security features within PROFINET technology. As a widely adopted industrial communication standard, PROFINET offers numerous advantages that contribute to its popularity across various industrial applications. In today's era of inevitable digitalisation in manufacturing, ensuring cybersecurity in this domain is crucial. Cyberattacks pose threats to the Availability, Integrity, and Confidentiality of production systems. Beyond financial losses, manufacturing companies also risk damage to their reputation and brand image. By attending this session you will learn: What is PROFINET technology and how the communication works PROFINET Security class 1, class 2 and class 3 The role of ISA/IEC 62443 in securing OT networks Blocking versus logging, two pillars of network security under IEC 62443 framework Register to attend here |
| 12:00 - 12:45 |
|
Easing robot adoption in the UK with the Standard Robot Command Interface |
Siemens Presented by John Mackey, digitalisation business development, Siemens Learn how the Standard Robot Command Interface (SCRI) is driving collaboration between automation and robotic vendors to drive innovation in discrete automation projects. Learn how this technology can integrate and add value in specifying robots, simulating and commissioning and allow your engineering skills to have more impact. By attending this session you will learn: Open standards drive adoption of new technology UK robot density is low and to benefit from automation, all parties must step up How SRCI lowers the barrier to entry or many robotic applications Skills and engineering shortage challenges can be met easier Applicable for OEMs, system integrators and end users. Register to attend here |
| 13:00 - 13:45 |
|
Single Pair Ethernet - Simplifying data transmission for industry |
Phoenix Contact Presented by Andrew Ellis, automation product manager and application specialist, Phoenix Contact Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is an Ethernet standard that uses a single pair of copper wires to transmit both data and power. It does not change the protocols used for communication between devices. This presentation goes through the benefits of such a technology and how it can simplify current machine systems as well as future proofing machines against future data bandwidth requirements. By attending this session you will learn: What is Single Pair Ethernet? The different SPE standards and uses Where SPE can be used The benefits of SPE in simplifying data transmission How SPE can be used to enable Industry 4.0 Register to attend here |
| 14:00 - 14:45 |
|
Interoperability and flexibility with Module Type Package (MTP) |
PIUK Presented by Chris McComb, chairman, PIUK MTP is a standardised methodology used in modular process plants. It enables interoperability between modules and orchestration systems, allowing for easy addition, arrangement, and adjustment of pre-automated modular units according to production needs. Developed by NAMUR, MTP provides a framework for standardized equipment data models and description language to streamline interoperability. By attending this session you will learn: An understanding of MTP An understanding on NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture) Who is utilising these technologies? The benefits from adopting MTP and NOA Example of MTP and NOA integration Register to attend here |
The Manufacturing Technology Centre is delighted to be alongside like-minded industry experts, who share similar goals for the UK manufacturing sector at the upcoming event
With many of our members actively involved in Machine Building & Automation, GTMA are pleased to support Machine Building Live 2023
The IED is really excited to be involved in Machine Building Live, given the importance of automation in design and we are very happy to be supporting this innovative event.
I really like the laser-like focus of this exhibition. Our customers are in the Machine Building business, so this exhibition is perfect for us.
It is our pleasure to be supporting our members at the very first Machine Building Live event, showcasing the unrivalled innovation and technology of UK Machine Builders.
Machine Building Live presents B&R Industrial Automation solutions and services directly to these machine builders in a cost-effective and simple way, and helps us meet new potential customers and network with people we know
Having worked with Mark and Luke on previous events over the years, when they mentioned putting together Machine Building Live, we just had to get involved!
Join 1,000+ professionals at the Concorde Conference Centre, Manchester, on 10th April 2025. Make this your year to lead the industry.
Click below to view the exhibitor list, explore the agenda, and secure your spot today.
We look forward to welcoming you as a key exhibitor!
Runway Visitor Park, Sunbank Lane, Altrincham, WA15 8XQ
Use WA15 8XQ. Free parking on site. Follow signs from M56 J6.
Use Manchester airport station. A 7 minute drive from the Concorde Centre.
Manchester Airport is a 10 minute taxi ride from the Visitor Park.
Discover more about the venue at https://www.runwayvisitorpark.co.uk/visit-us/park-information
Concorde remains an example of UK engineering at its best, and perhaps the most iconic Concorde of all is housed in a specially built display hangar at The Runway Visitor Park on the outskirts of Manchester airport. G-BOAC was flown into Manchester when the fleet was retired and has become a major attraction in the area. Visitors to MachineBuilding.North have exclusive use of the entire Runway Visitor Park for the day. The facility includes a number of other interesting aeroplanes which can also be viewed, and the park is located immediately adjacent to the threshold for runway 05L, making it a popular viewing place.
