Renishaw drives precision and efficiency in advancing ASEAN’s automation industry

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

In today’s dynamic business environment, manufacturers across Asia face the dual challenge of intense global competition and the need to cater to increasingly diverse applications. According to Steve Bell, General Manager for Renishaw ASEAN, in an interview by International Metalworking News for Asia, the key to staying competitive lies in producing parts quickly, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

“Regardless of the industry, the goals never really change—manufacturers aim to make parts that meet strict quality requirements, are delivered efficiently, and remain attractive to customers,” Bell explains. “Automation is an enabler for all these objectives. It delivers process consistency, reduces errors caused by human variability, and helps eliminate scrap and rework, ultimately driving efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

Bell also notes that this shift toward automation is not simply about keeping pace with competitors—it is about securing a sustainable operational model in an industry where margins are tight and expectations are rising.

The Power of Machine Tool Probing

For Renishaw, automation in machining goes far beyond robotics and material handling. Bell emphasizes that one of the most impactful areas is machine tool probing, which streamlines essential yet traditionally time-consuming tasks such as tool setup and part alignment.

“Before cutting begins, setting up tools and parts manually can be labour-intensive and prone to errors,” he says. “With tool setters and machine tool probing, manufacturers can automate these steps, accurately orient the part, and ensure the correct configuration before machining starts. Even without using probes inspection purposes, simply using them to set up the part delivers immediate benefits in accuracy and efficiency.”

These advantages extend into using probes in-process to automatically update tool offsets. By tracking dimensional changes due to factors such as temperature fluctuation or tool wear, Renishaw’s systems can make real-time adjustments to maintain part accuracy, reducing the risk of producing defective components. Over time, this not only improves consistency but also reduces production costs and helps manufacturers take on more complex, higher-value work.

Overcoming Perceptions of Complexity and Cost

A common perception among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is that automation is prohibitively expensive or overly complex. Bell believes this view is shifting.

“Automation today is far more accessible than it was a few years ago,” he notes. “The return on investment can be swift, especially when the technology eliminates rework, boosts throughput, and enhances part quality. Importantly, automation isn’t one-size-fits-all—it can start with relatively simple steps like part setup and tool setting, which already deliver significant gains.”

One recent case involved an EV parts manufacturer struggling with high scrap rates and inconsistent quality. By integrating Renishaw’s probing systems for both initial part setup and in-process verification before final cuts, the company virtually eliminated scrap, proving the tangible value of even modest automation solutions.

Enabling Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0

Machine tool probing also plays a critical role in enabling broader smart factory and Industry 4.0 strategies. Renishaw’s Central factory monitoring software uses part-centric data—rather than just machine utilisation metrics—to track quality in real time.

“In unattended processes, our on-machine systems, by which I mean the machine tool probe and tool setter, can automatically detect the tool wear and adjust offsets to maintain accuracy without human intervention. Renishaw Central does this by collecting and processing metrology data and monitoring the machine status remotely,” Bell explains. “This approach empowers both the automation and the people managing it to make timely, informed decisions. It’s not just about running machines faster—it’s about running them smarter.”

Bell highlights that the ability to gather and act upon live quality data is becoming a non-negotiable requirement for manufacturers aiming to integrate fully into modern supply chains, particularly in industries with zero-defect expectations such as aerospace, medical devices, and electronics.

A Solution for All Sizes of Operations

Bell stresses that automation is not just for large multinational corporations. Smaller workshops, even those with only a handful of machine tools, can see significant benefits—especially when producing high-quality parts for industries like aerospace or oil and gas.

“In reality, making parts without these technologies is what’s truly difficult,” he says. “Automation simplifies processes, reduces trial and error, and makes switching between different production jobs much faster and more efficient. Whether you’re making aerospace components one day and oil-and-gas parts the next, our systems make that changeover smoother and less prone to costly mistakes.”

Local Support and Education in ASEAN

Renishaw’s commitment to the ASEAN market extends beyond selling equipment. Bell underscores that support is the company’s foundation—in new markets, the first hires are always support engineers, not salespeople.

“Because Renishaw is also a manufacturer, we use the same technologies in our own operations. That gives us unparalleled depth and breadth of experience across manufacturing processes,” he says. “We place a strong emphasis on educating customers, especially in regions that are still developing their industrial capabilities. Some clients know exactly how they want to implement our technologies, while others need guidance on best practices. We’re ready to help both.”

Education, he adds, is not a one-time event but an ongoing partnership. From training sessions and workshops to hands-on demonstrations on the customer’s shop floor, Renishaw ensures that its solutions are not just installed but fully integrated into the customer’s workflow.

Looking Ahead

As manufacturing demands continue to evolve toward faster, more accurate, and more efficient production, Renishaw remains committed to refining its products and introducing new solutions.

“Our mission is to keep delivering technologies that simplify processes, enhance quality, and provide measurable value,” Bell concludes. “Whether for a small workshop or a global enterprise, the benefits of automation speak for themselves. The companies that embrace it today will be the ones setting the pace for the industry tomorrow.”