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Robert Ojsteršek, Fakulteta za strojništvo UM
Iztok Palčič, Fakulteta za strojništvo UM
Borut Buchmeister, Fakulteta za strojništvo UM

Objective worker skill assessment is essential for the development of human-centered manufacturing systems. In manual tasks, worker performance is reflected in efficiency, execution consistency, and reliability in terms of work quality. In practice, evaluation often relies on isolated indicators that do not provide a comprehensive view of the actual level of worker competence. This paper presents and experimentally validates a structured multi-criteria framework for worker skill assessment using the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy AHP). Performance data were collected at an experimental workstation and include time-based as well as error-related indicators. Expert pairwise comparisons were used to determine the weights of individual criteria, ensuring consistency verification and incorporating uncertainty through fuzzy modeling. The normalized performance indicators were aggregated into a consolidated skill score that provides a transparent, reproducible, and objective representation of individual worker capability. The developed metric serves as a structured input parameter for further modeling, simulation, and decision-support applications in modern human-centered manufacturing environments. Emphasis is placed on its applicability to worker-task allocation, task difficulty adjustment, and the design of balanced and sustainable production systems.

Increasing customer demands for price reductions and shorter delivery times are forcing companies to increasingly optimize processing procedures. The goal of every company is to use cutting tools that will quickly and efficiently produce a high-quality and precise product. By choosing the right manufacturing technology and the right cutting tool, we achieve high-quality processing and a very favorable ratio between processing quality and tool price. One of the processing procedures is also reaming, which is a very economical procedure, especially compared to boring. The reaming process can achieve a multiple reduction in processing time and a significantly lower cost per processed piece. Conventional larger-sized reamers are manufactured with soldered inserts or have screwed inserts and an adjustable diameter. In both cases, time-consuming logistics are required for tool renewal or tool calibration, which can be a challenge for users. The solution to this is the use of Urmina RX reamers, which are designed to reduce costs per hole, which is achieved with high processing parameters and eliminating the need for tool adjustment. This increases productivity and reduces downtime on the machine to a minimum compared to the boring process, and in addition, we achieve the highest standards of precision and reliability in our production. The advantage of the reamers is the unique modular system with interchangeable inserts, which allows you to replace inserts in the μm range in just a few seconds. The reamers have constant diameter accuracy and a long service life, so no additional tool adjustment is required, resulting in very high-quality processing and a very favorable ratio between processing quality and tool price.

Vinko Longar, Rudolfovo

Unplanned production line downtime represents a significant challenge in industry due to cryptic alarm codes, fragmented knowledge, and the lack of immediate expert support for operators. In this paper, we present an AI assistant for troubleshooting in manufacturing, based on a large language model adapted using the LoRA method for industrial diagnostics. The system integrates technical documentation, incident history, and operator feedback, transforming them into clear, context-aware action instructions. The solution enables faster and more consistent error resolution. Directions for future development are also outlined, including multimodal inputs and context-aware reasoning.

In low-volume to medium-batch production, setup time and errors during re-clamping are among the most common reasons for lost machine utilization on 3- to 5-axis machining centers. A solution that often delivers immediate impact is the AMF zero-point clamping concept: a standardized base for fast changeover of fixtures and pallets, and a reliable foundation for automation.
The article covers core system variants through the lens of real shop-floor needs: operating principles (mechanical / pneumatic / hydraulic locking), positioning repeatability, robustness in the presence of chips, and suitability for daily use. The key advantage is a stable reference—rather than “finding zero” after each changeover, the change becomes a repeatable process, while fixtures can be prepared outside the machine.
A conventional fixture change often takes around 15 ± 5 minutes, whereas zero-point clamping can reduce it to about ~1 minute. Even 1–2 changeovers per day can noticeably increase machine availability, reduce downtime, and raise output per day. Special attention is given to automation readiness: status monitoring (open/closed), pallet presence detection, and functions such as air blow-off that improve process reliability. For serial use, durability is also a key criterion—up to 4 million cycles without service.

Vojislav Hoc, EVOKS
Darko Radeka, Evoks

In the modern industrial environment, characterized by the Industry 4.0 concept, the effective management of technical systems is becoming a decisive factor in competitiveness. Traditional maintenance approaches, such as reactive (repair after failure) or preventive (service at fixed intervals), are increasingly failing to meet the demands for high equipment availability and cost optimization. A key shift occurs with the introduction of intelligent maintenance, which relies on real-time data collection and analysis.

The core of this transformation is IoT (Internet of Things) technology. By connecting physical machinery to digital systems via sensors and RFID identification, a continuous insight into the "health status" of the equipment is enabled. However, the data itself has no value if it is not accessible to those making decisions in the field – maintenance technicians and engineers. This is precisely where dedicated mobile applications play a crucial role.

This paper presents the architecture and functional model of a mobile application that serves as a central interface between the worker and the smart factory. The focus is on the integration of the three pillars of digitalization: precise identification via RFID, parameter monitoring (vibrations, temperature, operating hours) through IoT sensors, and the digitalization of work orders. The goal of this approach is the elimination of paper documentation, the reduction of human error, and a drastic shortening of the time required for diagnostics and intervention, which directly impacts the reduction of unplanned downtime and the extension of machinery service life.

Slovenian CNC machine shops are operating under growing pressure: skilled labor remains scarce, customer expectations are rising, and quotes must be delivered faster than ever to stay competitive. Yet quoting remains one of the most time-consuming and risk-prone processes in many workshops. Experienced estimators spend hours reviewing CAD files and drawings, selecting materials and machines, calculating machining times in spreadsheets or running CAM simulations. Days can pass by until they can send quotes to the customer. When workloads peak or key experts are unavailable, response times slow and valuable orders are lost. Calculation methods often vary between estimators, increasing the risk of underpricing complex parts or losing jobs due to uncompetitive quotes. Spanflug MAKE fundamentally changes this through automated quoting. The software analyzes CAD models and technical drawings, evaluates manufacturability, identifies suitable stock material, machines and tools, and calculates machining times and costs within seconds. From here, a ready-to-send PDF quote is just a few clicks away. Users report time savings of up to 90 percent, enabling them to handle more inquiries while improving responsiveness and service quality. Spanflug MAKE also helps to reduce pricing risk, especially for complex or unfamiliar parts, and enables less experienced staff to prepare precise quotes. The result is faster turnaround, lower cost of quoting and an overall stronger competitiveness.

Gregor Bizjak, Kolektor Mobility d.o.o. - Podružnica Postojna
Aleš Turk, Kolektor Mobility d.o.o. - Podružnica Postojna
Klemen Jovanović, Kolektor Mobility d.o.o. - Podružnica Postojna

Validation of automotive components often represents a long period of product development. The internally developed method of rapid temperature shocking of products using liquid media significantly speeds up the manipulation and heat transfer to the interior of the product itself. The complexity of the testing reliably identifies design defects in products and, with a much shorter testing time compared to standard temperature tests, allows for a significant acceleration of the development process and product launch on the market.

Our development vision in the direction of AVR - Autonomous Versatile Robotics. Our next generation of robots will understand and plan independently, they will do more things in more places and do it faster, safer and smarter. We will interact with these robots as we interact with each other.

Dejan Gmajner, Biostile d.o.o.
Tomaž Orehek, MM Količevo d.o.o.

Digital transformation and the modernization of information systems are indispensable today for maintaining competitiveness and efficiency in modern discrete manufacturing. Despite clear business goals, such projects carry serious risks—even a well-designed implementation can, with the wrong approach, jeopardize the continuity of the entire supply chain.

This paper examines the high-profile case study of the SAP S/4HANA implementation at Haribo, which clearly illustrates how inadequate planning can paralyze a company's operations at a critical moment.

We analyze three sets of challenges:

Technical challenges: The complexity of data migration and the adaptation of existing business processes to new system standards required extensive, unforeseen manual intervention and caused launch delays.

Business consequences: Critical supply chain disruptions immediately after the system launch led to delivery failures to retail chains, product shortages on shelves, and a 25% drop in sales within a few weeks.

Strategic errors: Launching just before the peak sales season; inadequate testing of processes in real-world scenarios; and underestimating the importance of change management and executive oversight.
Based on this analysis, practical lessons are highlighted for manufacturing companies planning a transition to comprehensive ERP solutions: the importance of aligning the launch timing with the sales and production cycles, the necessity of comprehensive testing in real-world scenarios, and the crucial role of executive oversight in change management.

Tomislav Hercigonja, TOPOMATIKA d.o.o.
Antonio Horvat, Signum Max d.o.o.

When a critical component fails and a replacement is no longer available, the choice is simple: give up or build a better part. This paper presents exactly such an engineering challenge through a student assignment (*): the reconstruction of a damaged plastic release button for a carry-on luggage handle, using only the equipment available in the laboratory, without relying on external resources or numerical simulations.
The process began with digitization using an ATOS 3D scanner and the creation of a CAD model, but simply replicating the original proved naive. Testing prototypes on a universal testing machine confirmed that faithful copying also transfers every design flaw of the original, leading to repeated failure after a simulated multi-year usage cycle.
Instead of relying on assumptions, the solution came through direct validation. By using a testing machine and the ARAMIS DIC system for optical strain measurement during mechanical tests, we forced the material to reveal exactly where the highest stresses occur. Based on these measurements, targeted design changes were implemented, resulting in a functional and reliable replacement component. This proves that with rigorous measurement and accessible laboratory equipment, 3D printing ceases to be a mere prototyping tool and becomes a serious answer to industrial maintenance challenges.

Kristijan Šket, Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za strojništvo
David Potočnik, Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za strojništvo
Marko , Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za strojništvo

The K-factor, defined as the ratio between the position of the neutral axis and the sheet thickness, is a key parameter in determining the developed length. However, it is not a material constant, as it depends on process conditions. In this study, it was experimentally determined for 3 mm structural steel after 90° bending using a V-die. The geometry of the deformed part was captured using an optical 3D scanner (GOM ATOS), while the position of the neutral axis was determined based on measurement analysis. The results show deviations from commonly assumed values, confirming the influence of factors such as material anisotropy, the radius-to-thickness ratio, tool geometry, friction, and springback.
Since the K-factor cannot be measured directly, it was determined indirectly by comparing the actual developed length with the geometry of the bent part. Based on measured quantities (radius, thickness, flange lengths, and bend angle), a parameter was calculated that best describes the real condition. The proposed approach enables a more accurate definition of input parameters for CAD modeling and improves the agreement of the developed state as well as the repeatability of the manufacturing process.

Ema Stefanovska, Fakulteta za strojništvo Ljubljana
Uroš Štuklek, Dafra kontakt tehnologija d.o.o.
Iztok Satler, Dafra kontakt tehnologija d.o.o.
Albin Sirc, Egasi d.o.o.
Jure Peternel, Egasi d.o.o.

Due to their high operating speeds, stamping tools present significant challenges for the implementation of mechatronic feedback systems. This paper presents a multi-punch mechatronic stamping tool that is integrated into an industrial production cycle, featuring the ability to adjust the position of the punches and, consequently, to manufacture various products on the same production line.

Peter Fajs, TECOS

In modern manufacturing, a paradigm shift is taking place—from long development cycles and maximum robustness towards rapid iteration, market adaptability, and economically optimized product lifetime. The traditional European approach emphasizes high quality, precise optimization, and long tool lifetime, while Asian models focus on development speed, serial thinking, and fast market adaptation.

The paper first presents different approaches to tool development, including the use of aluminum prototype tooling, polymer-based tools, and selected best-practice examples of European toolmakers, highlighting the transition from maximum robustness to functionally appropriate lifetime depending on product requirements.

In the second part, the role of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) in CAD environments is discussed as a tool for accelerating development. Differences between parametric modeling, topology optimization, and generative design are presented, along with the importance of data-driven approaches for faster exploration of design solutions.

The paper concludes that combining European engineering expertise with new approaches such as GAI enables the integration of high quality and development speed, representing a key opportunity to enhance the competitiveness of European toolmaking.

Vinko Drev, LTH Castings d.o.o.
Andrej Smolič, LTH Castings d.o.o.

LTH Castings d.o.o. has been continuously enhancing its production processes through the implementation of advanced automation solutions. Within the Process Automation department at the Ljubljana plant, we have developed and implemented a modern robotic cell for die casting with a clamping force of 3500 t.
The robotic cell is designed for die casting machine tending and for further processing of castings through multiple technological operations. The system includes two robots – one mounted on a floor-mounted linear axis for handling castings between stations, and another fixed robot for dot peen marking. Key components include intermediate buffering stations, a gripper lubrication system, a cooling tank, air blow-off and drying chambers, a trimming press, a saw, and an output conveyor. The process begins in the die casting machine, followed by flash removal, cooling, and optional air blow-off and drying. The casting then proceeds through trimming and, if required, sawing operations. Prior to completion, dot peen marking ensures traceability, and the final product is transferred to the output conveyor.
The entire process is fully automated, requiring only minimal manual intervention for unloading the output conveyor and replacing scrap containers, significantly improving efficiency and reliability.

Industrial robotic machining cells are often a production bottleneck: generating demanding machining toolpaths requires a high level of reliability, while traditional teach pendant programming makes it difficult to manage singularities, avoid collisions, and handle multi-axis kinematics (e.g., one robot with 1–2 rotary axes and a linear track). This paper presents the transition from a purely “online” approach to more efficient offline and hybrid robot programming using ENCY Robot and ENCY Hyper.
ENCY Robot enables brand-agnostic offline process preparation for applications such as milling, trimming, grinding, polishing, and welding. Its key strength is a CAM-style workflow supported by simulation, reachability and collision checking, and straightforward code transfer into production. Special attention is given to usability: functions are available with fewer clicks and without unnecessary dialogs, allowing even non-traditional CAM users to learn the basics very quickly.
ENCY Hyper introduces a new “hybrid” programming concept that complements offline preparation and, in practice, can replace the standard teach pendant with graphical “drag & drop” programming and real-time collision awareness. Using a practical workflow, we demonstrate how combining offline preparation with fast online adjustments reduces cell occupancy, increases first-run reliability, and improves overall process repeatability.

In a modern industrial environment, we are increasingly encountering upgrades and functional optimizations of starters and drive systems. Modern machines and the upcoming change in legislation (Machinery Regulation – EU 2023/1230), may require the implementation of safety functions. This can lead to space constraints, making optimization one of the key factors in production modernization.
The presentation will focus on compact solutions for motor control. By using the presented solutions, you need significantly fewer components and cables, less time and space for integration, achieve significant energy savings, and ensure a longer equipment life and safer maintenance.
Advanced solutions for so-called Direct-On-Line (DOL) motor starting will be presented, which combine a power device for starting and protecting the motor and safety components that enable STO up to Ple in a compact device. Such solutions enable controlled switching at a certain point in the voltage wave, which significantly reduces wear on mechanical contacts, causes lower heat losses and a lower level of electromagnetic interference in the grid.
We will present also solutions with distributed units for frequency control. These units represent a combination of a high-performance frequency converter and a highly efficient motor with a special, patented stator, enabling excellent energy utilization despite minimal size and weight. Particular emphasis will also be placed on functional safety, especially the implementation of Safe Torque Off (STO), which enables safe operation and simpler and faster maintenance interventions.

This paper addresses the problem of kinematic redundancy of an industrial robot mounted on a linear track in high-precision laboratory manipulation tasks. Due to the additional degree of freedom, the system allows multiple kinematic configurations to reach the same Cartesian position, which may affect motion stability and positioning repeatability. A geometric optimization-based method for determining the robot position along the linear track is presented. The approach is based on analyzing the intersection between the geometric model of the robot’s optimal reach and the axis of the external linear motion, enabling the robot to reach target positions within a matrix structure located near the boundaries of the robot workspace. The proposed method enables deterministic positioning of the robot along the track for individual target points in the matrix structure and reduces the occurrence of kinematically unfavorable configurations. Practical implementation has shown that the approach ensures stable and repeatable robot positioning while providing sufficient accuracy for demanding laboratory operations.

KEYWORDS: redundant robot, linear track, kinematic redundancy, laboratory applications, geometric optimization

Peter Zobec, Univerza v Ljubljani, Fakulteta za strojništvo
Jaka Križ, Iskra PIO
Gašper Mrak, Iskra PIO
Jernej Klemenc, Univerza v Ljubljani, Fakulteta za strojništvo

During operation of mechanical structures, stresses and strains appear as a response to the mechanical loads. The distribution of stresses and strains depends on the size and shape of the structures as well as the materials and manufacturing processes used. The locations where the highest concentrations of stresses and strains occur are usually also the locations where fatigue issues may appear after long-term operation of the structures. In order to predict and prevent such events by application of the appropriate design, simulations of structural behaviour during the operation are carried out already in the early stages of product development. In this paper, a closer look has been taken at the stress distribution in a two-column container mixer for homogenisation of powder mixtures. The stress distribution has been compared in the main frame of the container mixer when loaded due to the structure's own weight. First, this was taken into account in the simulation via the concentrated force of gravity at the centre of gravity of the structure and represented a simplified consideration of the load application. Second, the load application has been considered as a distributed mass placed in the gravitational field and this represented a realistic load case. It turns out that simplification can yield slightly different results than consideration of the mass distribution, which can affect decisions regarding potential structural changes during the development process.

Jošt Mohorko, Olma d.o.o.
Aleš Hrobat, Olma d.o.o.

Gas engines represent a specific group of power units in which lubrication conditions differ significantly from those in diesel or gasoline engines. This is primarily due to the varying composition of gaseous fuels, the absence of inherent lubricating components in the fuel, and the pronounced chemical effects of the combustion process. High thermal loads, the presence of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur compounds, and halogens, as well as variable operating regimes, lead to accelerated lubricant degradation, particularly in the form of oxidation, nitration, and the formation of acidic by-products.

Under these conditions, the proper selection of lubricants − with adequate alkalinity reserve, controlled sulphated ash content, and optimized additive formulation − plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable operation and extended service life of engine components. In addition, systematic lubricant diagnostics has become an essential element of maintenance, enabling early detection of degradation processes, optimization of oil drain intervals, and prevention of mechanical failures.

This paper discusses the key mechanisms of lubricant degradation, the influence of fuel composition on oil formulation, and modern condition monitoring techniques, with a particular emphasis on the interpretation of oil analysis results under real operating conditions.

Technical cleanliness analysis has become one of the key elements of quality assurance in modern industry in recent years. Due to the miniaturization of components, electrification of drives, and increasingly stringent reliability requirements, contamination control is becoming a critical factor for the proper functioning of systems. Particles only a few micrometers in size can cause wear, blockages, or even complete component failure, especially in high-precision hydraulic, electronic, and mechanical systems.
Traditionally, technical cleanliness analysis was often viewed primarily as a customer requirement, particularly in the automotive industry. However, its role has significantly expanded. Today, it represents an important tool for understanding manufacturing processes, optimizing technologies, and reducing costs associated with product failures and warranty claims. The analysis not only enables particle quantification but also identification of their origin, allowing targeted process improvements.

Bojan Ačko, Fakulteta za strojništvo Univerze v Mariboru
Rok Klobučar, Fakulteta za strojništvo Univerze v Mariboru

In modern industrial environments, characterized by high demands for dimensional accuracy and quality, portable coordinate measuring systems have become indispensable. Among these, laser trackers (hereinafter referred to as LT) play a key role due to their mobility, wide measurement range and high precision, enabling measurements beyond the capabilities of conventional coordinate measuring machines. Their use is now essential not only for inspecting large-scale products and complex assemblies, but also for the precise calibration of machine tools, robotic cells, and the alignment of production lines. With the increasing deployment of LTs in industry, the demand for their calibration is also growing. Due to stringent accuracy requirements, this presents a significant metrological challenge. Currently, no laboratory in Slovenia offers calibration services for LTs, so the procedure remains largely within the domain of the manufacturer. This paper presents the results of an experimental performance evaluation of a LT, conducted at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor. The experiment used a comparative measurement method, comparing the LT with a reference standard – a laser interferometer. Measurements were carried out on a 13 m calibration bench primarily used for calibrating tape measures. Tests were performed in four different LT configurations relative to the measurement bench, resulting in various head rotation angles. The evaluation addressed system repeatability, the influence of measurement distance, and the effect of head rotation on measurement error, including compliance with the manufacturer’s maximum permissible error (MPE) specification. The results provide a practical approach to assessing LT performance in a laboratory environment and establish a basis for further development of traceable verification procedures.

Jithinraj Edaklavan Koroth, Fakulteta za strojništvo, UL

Plasma electrolytic polishing (PeP) is an advanced non-contact surface finishing process with significant potential for improving the surface integrity of complex-shaped metallic products. This paper presents the basic principles of the PeP process, including its operating mechanism, key process parameters, and material removal behaviour. Representative samples are used to illustrate the achievable surface quality and to demonstrate the practical implementation of polishing. The applicability of PeP to geometrically demanding components is discussed, with particular attention to its advantages for external surfaces of complex parts. The paper also addresses the main process limitations, especially regarding material compatibility and the restricted effectiveness when polishing internal features such as holes and narrow cavities. The contribution provides an engineering overview of both the capabilities and constraints of PeP.

Josip Kos, Topomatika d.o.o.
Maximilian Hercigonja, Topomatika d.o.o.
Tomislav Hercigonja, Topomatika d.o.o.

Choosing a 3D measurement technology and strategy is a crucial step in product quality control, and modern manufacturing processes require increasingly faster and more comprehensive measurements. In this context, modern advanced optical 3D measurement technologies and industrial computed tomography (CT) stand out as the best choice.

With more than two decades of experience in industrial 3D metrology, Topomatika d.o.o provides a solid foundation for reliable selection and application of these technologies, enabling high-quality control and reliable results in various production processes.

This paper provides an overview of practical examples for the proper selection of 3D measurement system technology, with characteristic examples from the production of polymer products, metal casting and the automotive industry, especially in the segment of new generation vehicles (NEV – New Energy Vehicles).

The article presents examples of 3D measurement results on data obtained using the ATOS and T-SCAN hawk 2 optical 3D measurement systems, and the ZEISS METROTOM industrial CT system. Data processing and creation of measurement reports were performed in the ZEISS INSPECT software package, which supports all of the aforementioned measurement technologies.

Water is one of the most important raw materials in industrial environments. It serves as a key component in products, as a process medium, as a heating or cooling agent, and as a crucial element in sanitary and technological operations. For this reason, the required water treatment processes vary significantly across industries. Each sector follows its own standards, shaped by process needs, regulatory requirements, technical constraints, and expectations regarding product quality. The fundamental principle of process-water preparation can be expressed simply: the quality of water must always match its intended purpose.
1. Water as an Ingredient in Production
In some industries, water is not just an auxiliary medium—it becomes part of the final product. This applies to the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. When water is an ingredient, treatment standards must be exceptionally strict.
Food and Beverage Industry
Water used in beverage filling, washing raw materials, dairy processing, or production of canned goods must meet hygiene standards that often exceed drinking-water requirements. Filtration, disinfection, removal of organic substances, and microbiological stability are essential. Treatment typically includes a combination of classic filtration, activated carbon, UV disinfection, and membrane processes such as reverse osmosis to reliably remove impurities.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Pharmaceutical standards are even more demanding. Multiple categories of purified water—such as purified water (PW), highly purified water (HPW), and water for injections (WFI)—each have precisely defined quality specifications. Treatment technologies include distillation, double-pass reverse osmosis, electrodeionization, and thermal disinfection of the distribution system. It is not only the chemical and microbiological purity that matters but also the control of endotoxins, which can compromise the safety of medicinal products.
2. Water as a Technological Medium
In many sectors, water does not end up in the final product but remains essential for the technological process. The quality requirements here depend entirely on the function water performs.
Process Water
Process water is used for washing components, dissolving raw materials, transporting materials through pipelines, or preparing chemical solutions. The quality must prevent corrosion, scaling, and contamination of production lines. It simultaneously protects equipment reliability and ensures consistency in product quality.
Industries such as chemical manufacturing, textiles, and petrochemicals require process water with highly specific properties regarding pH, hardness, dissolved solids, or ion activity. As a result, treatment methods include filtration, softening, demineralization, and various membrane processes, tailored to the needs of individual production steps.
3. Water for Heating and Cooling
In heating and cooling systems, water serves as an energy-transfer medium. It circulates through heat exchangers, distributes or absorbs heat, and significantly influences system efficiency. The quality of this water is therefore closely linked to the longevity and performance of the equipment.
Cooling Systems
Cooling towers, condensers, and recirculating cooling loops are exposed to scaling, corrosion, and microbiological growth. Poor water quality can lead to blockages, reduced heat-transfer capacity, increased energy consumption, or equipment failure. Cooling water treatment usually includes softening, filtration, chemical dosing of corrosion inhibitors, and controlled biocide application to suppress microbial growth.
Boiler Feedwater
In boilers, where water is converted into steam, impurities must be minimized. Dissolved minerals can form scale, reducing heat-transfer efficiency and creating risks of overheating and mechanical failure. Treatment methods include softening, decarbonization, demineralization, reverse osmosis, and application of chemical stabilizers, all designed to protect the boiler system and maintain operational safety.
4. Special Industrial Applications
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Production
Beyond basic standards for purified water, pharmaceutical and biotech operations require complete control over the entire water preparation and distribution infrastructure. Recirculating distribution loops prevent stagnation, and systems must allow for thermal or chemical sanitization. Even minimal microbial contamination can compromise an entire batch of sensitive products.
Electronics and Microelectronics
The production of semiconductors and electronic components relies on ultra-pure water (UPW)—one of the purest forms of water available. It contains extremely low concentrations of ions, organic compounds, particles, and microbes. This water is used for rinsing silicon wafers where even nanometer-sized contaminants can lead to product defects.
Power Generation
Power plants, especially those using steam turbines, demand exceptionally high water quality for high-pressure boilers. Contaminated feedwater reduces efficiency, increases risk of corrosion, and may result in costly failures. Therefore, water treatment in power generation includes softening, demineralization, electrodeionization, and continuous monitoring of water chemistry in real time.
5. Industry-Specific Solutions Are Essential
A key conclusion of the article is that there is no universal solution for process-water preparation. Every industry has distinct requirements, so systems must be designed individually. Effective water-treatment planning depends on understanding:

the role of water in the process,
whether water contacts the final product,
the quality and composition of the feedwater,
regulatory and hygiene requirements,
the influence of water quality on energy efficiency,
maintenance strategies and monitoring requirements.

Modern water-treatment systems increasingly rely on digitalization, real-time monitoring, optimized chemical dosing, and reduced water and energy consumption.
Conclusion
The preparation of process water is a critical element of safe, efficient, and sustainable industrial production. Because water serves many roles—from a key ingredient in products to a technological medium, cooling fluid, or energy carrier—it is essential that its quality and treatment be precisely tailored to each specific application. Different industries therefore require different levels of filtration, demineralization, disinfection, and monitoring. Proper water treatment improves product quality, reduces maintenance costs, extends equipment life, and significantly contributes to the long-term sustainability goals of modern industry.

Tamara Rozman, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov
Rajko Bobovnik, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov
Aljaž Kolar, O.P.S. Breznik d.o.o.
Bojan Breznik, O.P.S. Breznik d.o.o.
Primož Haberman, O.P.S. Breznik d.o.o.
Blaž Nardin, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov

This study investigates the effects of various additives on the properties of mechanically recycled polyamide 66 reinforced with 15% glass fibres (rPA66 GF15), intended for injection-moulded technical components. Compounding was performed at the Faculty of Polymer Technology using a twin-screw extruder. The rPA66 GF15 matrix was modified with ground waste from wind turbine blades, the finest fraction of waste polyester thermoset powder, a lubricant, and a compatibilizer. Several formulations were prepared to systematically evaluate the influence of each additive. Test specimens were prepared by injection moulding. The incorporation of ground wind turbine blade waste significantly enhanced stiffness and tensile strength, albeit at the expense of impact toughness. The addition of waste polyester thermoset powder, even at minimal concentrations, accelerated crystallization kinetics while simultaneously improving stiffness and strength. The compatibilizer played a crucial role in improving interfacial adhesion between the additives and the polyamide matrix. Conversely, the lubricant reduced stiffness and strength but notably improved additive dispersion and dimensional stability of the material. The optimized formulations exhibiting superior stiffness and strength demonstrate strong potential for injection moulding of demanding technical products. These findings validate the feasibility of incorporating recycled thermoplastic composites into high-performance applications, contributing to circular economy principles and sustainable material utilization. The research was conducted at the FTPO and OPS Breznik within the framework of the DeremCo project.

Silvester Bolka, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov
Rajko Bobovnik, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov
Blaž Nardin, Fakulteta za tehnologijo polimerov

In this paper, the application of mechanically recycled polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) with enhanced properties is presented, suitable for both injection moulding and 3D printing.
At the Faculty of Polymer Technology, a thermoplastic composite was prepared using recycled PETG, into which ground and sieved thermoset composite waste was incorporated. Three distinct formulations were developed and subjected to two different drying techniques prior to processing. In order to achieve the desired properties of the final composite, an appropriate compatibilizer was added to all formulations to ensure effective interfacial interactions between the waste thermoset phase and the recycled PETG matrix. The mechanical and thermal properties of the recycled composite were evaluated. Test specimens were fabricated using both injection moulding and 3D Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF) printing, the latter being conducted directly from granulate. From the characterization results, it was demonstrated that, in terms of toughness, values obtained by 3D FGF printing exceed those of injection-moulded components, regardless of the waste thermoset content. The developed material is also suitable for large-format 3D printing applications, by which new possibilities are opened for the production of tools—particularly for the processing of thermoset composites—as well as for the injection moulding of technical parts.
This work is presented as a pertinent example of circular economy principles within the framework of the DeremCo project. It is demonstrated that, by leveraging in-house expertise and existing equipment, the production of thermoplastic composites suitable for practical applications can be achieved.

A robot cell equipped with a Motoman robot type GP180 with a payload of 180 kg, performs cleaning and painting of sand cores for castings. The two-finger servo gripper is equipped with two external robotic axes. Change of product type, only the fingers of the gripper are replaced to suit new shape of sand core. The 3D Vision camera is used to identify the position of the cores on the input pallet and to pinpoint the position of the core in the robotic gripper.

The SmartPlasma project focuses on upgrading an industrial plasma reactor to automate process parameters in line with Industry 4.0 standards. The existing 5 m³ reactor is used for depositing protective coatings on plastic products, but key parameters such as vacuum levels, residual atmosphere composition, and plasma power are currently adjusted manually. The project aims to integrate photonic sensors for real-time monitoring of plasma parameters and introduce an automated system for process parameter adjustments. The sensors enable remote control and long-term data storage for traceability. Expected outcomes include reduced product waste and improved production quality.

The Digi-SAAP project demonstrates an agile production setup for screwdriving applications with collaborative robots (cobots). The goal was to develop a system that enables fast task changeover using Industry 4.0 integration. Automated screwdriving requires precise mounting of each screw with the correct torque, ensured through cloud-based data collection, logging, and analysis. The project will develop a new screwdriving task setup method that reduces changeover time from hours to minutes. The innovative CS-30 tool from Spin Robotics was tested at the Elvez d.o.o. production site in Slovenia, with data integration through Trendlog.io. The project started at TRL 5 and end at TRL 8, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce manual effort, and enable digitalized, agile production for European industry.

In Slovenia, we have a lot of strategies, but we are lagging behind in economic development. Global development is becoming more complex and faster every day. The increasingly important question is how to approach development and how to act in order to not only reduce the lag, but also become one of the world's leaders? Such extensive and complex tasks must first be tackled at the strategic level of both state policy and the owners. The task of every strategic management is to foresee the path of the company for 10 or 20 years into the future. But how do we know what will happen in the future? The fact is that technology is overtaking society by 10-20 years, thus becoming the backbone of the development of all society. The scale of industrial revolutions is what is already known today and will continue to be for tomorrow. In Slovenia, the media strongly promote economics as the only profession for developing a strategy, which is not enough. Economic strategy includes all professions in the economy. The strategic field is distinctly transdisciplinary, where industrial professions are combined into a homogeneous entity. In our country, there has long been a mistaken belief that politics should not interfere with economic development and that the market will guide it. Development today greatly exceeds the level of a single company and extends to the level of the entire society. For accelerated development, it is necessary to direct the support of the entire government, ministries and most services to companies, in addition to what they can do on their own with the support of their owners.

MIha Trček, CADCAM Lab
Leon Čepin, CADCAM Lab

Reliable transfer of engineering data from development to production requires a continuous digital flow of information — the digital thread — which begins with the 3D CAD model and continues through the preparation of technological data, process planning, and production simulation. The 3D model acts as the single source of data and the single source of truth, from which bills of materials, manufacturing processes, work instructions, and simulation inputs are generated.

In a connected data environment, information flows between domains without manual transcription or duplication, enabling coordinated collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, and production. A key step is the transition from the Engineering Bill of Materials (EBOM) to the Manufacturing Bill of Materials (MBOM), where the product is structured according to operations, assembly groups, and materials, and where make-or-buy decisions are defined. The MBOM then becomes the direct input for the manufacturing process plan.

The digital thread ensures traceability, version control, and alignment between product and process structures, enabling rapid response to changes while directly influencing cost efficiency, production reliability, and time-to-market.