MIRDC Shows Future of Tool Making at IHT x TiTE Taiwan

The Taiwan International Tools Expo x International Hardware Expo (IHT x TiTE) concluded successfully from October 16 to 18 at the Taichung International Convention & Exhibition Center. The event featured 300 exhibitors, and 700 booths, and attracted over 5,500 visitors over three days. Among the highlights was the Metal Industries Research & Development Center (MIRDC), showcasing ten groundbreaking technologies designed to advance innovation in the fastener and hand tool industries, including cutting-edge digital simulation and precision mold adjustment techniques.

One of MIRDC's standout innovations at the expo was the “Near Net Shape Forging Technology for Hand Tools.” Traditional forging methods often led to excessive burr waste, high defect rates, and labor-intensive post-production processing. MIRDC’s technology addresses these challenges by leveraging digital simulation to optimize forging parameters and mold designs before production begins.

This innovation enhances material utilization from 50% to an impressive 95%, while producing forged components closer to their final dimensions and quality. The technology significantly reduces material waste by 45% and energy loss during processing by 20%, aligning with low-carbon and green manufacturing goals. The result is a streamlined production process requiring minimal mechanical post-processing.

Protected by three domestic patents, this technology has been applied across a range of high-strength and functional forging products such as combination wrenches, adjustable wrenches, pliers, hammers, and sockets. Its successful implementation has not only bolstered the technical capabilities of Taiwan’s hand tool industry but also promoted the value and autonomy of Made-in-Taiwan (MIT) products.

MIRDC’s surface treatment technologies also garnered significant attention at IHT x TiTE, particularly for their applications in rust prevention and hardness enhancement across diverse materials. These advancements have sparked active discussions with industry stakeholders and international manufacturers eager to adopt these solutions.

Additionally, MIRDC’s testing and verification capabilities received widespread interest, showcasing the center's role as a key partner in elevating industry standards. With a strong focus on addressing the practical needs of manufacturers, MIRDC continues to push for upgrades within Taiwan’s metal and manufacturing sectors.

Through the integration of government-funded scientific resources, MIRDC remains at the forefront of developing technologies that promote smart manufacturing and net-zero sustainability. By refining and expanding its innovations, the center is paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future in Taiwan’s industrial landscape.