Digitalization in surface technology

OPC UA defines the mechanisms of cooperation between machines in the industrial environment. As an open interface standard, OPC UA enables mechanical and plant engineering to digitally network production. The VDMA develops OPC UA Companion Specifications together with its member companies. VDMA Surface Technology organizes the development of Companion Specifications in four OPC UA Working Groups

  • Organic Coating Machinery,
  • Shot Blasting Machinery,
  • Plasma Surface Treatment Machinery
  • Cleaning- and Pretreatment Machinery
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    The aim is to provide the operator with standardized machine and process data and to significantly reduce the effort required to integrate these machines into production.

    The VDMA coordinates the activities of the mechanical engineering industry for a cross-industry definition of machine-to-machine communication. OPC UA Companion Specifications have already been published for some machine types and others are currently being developed.

    European Machinery Regulation

    The EU Machinery Regulation was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on June 29, 2023. This regulation will replace the Machinery Directive and will apply from January 20, 2027. In this context, around 850 machine safety standards, including those for surface technology, must be revised by the beginning of 2026 so that the presumption of conformity of the standards to the new legislation can apply from the date of application. VDMA Surface Technology is coordinating the revision of surface technology standards and involving experts from industry and occupational health and safety in Germany and Europe.

    LABS guide

    The guide to standard sheet VDMA 24364 “Testing for paint wetting impairment substances (LABS conformity)” was first published in 2018 and has quickly established itself internationally. Due to high demand, an English and Spanish version is now available in addition to the German version.

    The VDMA 24364 standard sheet describes requirements for testing products for paint wetting impairment substances (LABS) based on a classification related to the intended use of the products. The VDMA LABS guideline provides information on the practical implementation of the test and describes measures for LABS-compliant production.

    VDMA experts are looking forward to a lively exchange with interested trade visitors at SurfaceTechnology GERMANY 2026 in Stuttgart.

    Paint wetting impairment substances - a practical guide