The Hilma division of German work-holding specialist Roemheld, which has a UK subsidiary in Hitchin (www.roemheld.co.uk), has entered into a 50:50 joint venture (JV) with long-term co-operation partner, Rivi Magnetics (based in Sassuolo, Italy).

The JV company — Roemheld Rivi GmbH — intends to ‘leverage’ both partners’ expertise to develop new applications for magnetic clamping technology “and further penetrate global markets”.

Roemheld Rivi is under the dual leadership of Hans-Joachim Molka (from the Roemheld management team responsible for commercial matters) and Davide Rivi (the owner of Rivi Magnetics Srl, who is responsible for research and development).

Mr Molka said: “We see a number of new opportunities in specific sectors in the coming years: drives for electro-mobility, 3-D printing applications, locking mechanisms for rotors in wind turbines, and robotic assembly and handling.

"Magnetic clamping is aimed at customers working in the supply chains to these sectors, as well as at those looking for a partner for the implementation of Industry 4.0.”

Mr Rivi said: “Magnetic clamping technology, with its many advantages in terms of set-up time optimisation, offers a huge market potential that we want to exploit further.

"In addition tointensifying sales activities, Roemheld Rivi GmbH intends to launch a development initiative that will significantly broaden the product portfolio.”

Hilma M-TECS standard and customised magnetic clamping products are manufactured by Rivi Magnetics, the various models being capable of withstanding maximum temperatures of 80°C, 120°C or 240°C.

The company says there has been a noticeable increase in demand for quick mould clamping at the upper end of this temperature range.

Systems can be either factory-fitted (by the machine manufacturer) or retrofitted to existing machines in a few hours; they are widely used in injection moulding and the rubber industry, as well as in forming presses and stamping plants.