Join Andy Pickering for this keynote presentation as he reflects on more than 40 years of experience in the foundry industry, exploring how the sector has evolved, the challenges that lie ahead, and the implications for the Australian foundry industry. As global casting demand continues to grow, Andy examines the factors driving this expansion and considers its impact on future casting capacity worldwide.
To meet this growing demand, three critical areas are explored: people, power, and process.
People – The industry faces an acute shortage of skilled and specialised workers. Andy discusses how the sector can attract new talent, retain experienced personnel, and develop the next generation of industry leaders.
Power – Rising energy costs are having a profound impact on the casting industry. Energy has become a major driver of operational expenses, forcing structural changes in production methods and accelerating the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
Process – The need for innovation is driving change across all areas of the industry. Key developments include advanced organic chemical binders and the transition to inorganic binders, reducing costs and improving environmental performance. Other innovations include the increasing use of artificial sand as a high-performance alternative to natural silica sand, advanced recycling technologies for spent foundry sand, and the integration of automation, advanced machinery, and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, safety, and quality.
The global foundry industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technological innovation and the continued evolution of metal casting processes. While geopolitical tensions and regional shifts in production present ongoing challenges, the industry remains on a steady growth trajectory. This keynote provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of foundries in Australia and around the world.