Dialogue and Direction
At the official opening, Prof. Rafał Dańko (President of the Polish Foundrymen’s Association) and José Javier González (WFO Secretary General) emphasized FOCAST’s role in connecting science, industry, and institutions to tackle shared challenges.
– This is a return to a good tradition, said Prof. Dańko. Foundry is the industry of the future and deserves a strong European position.
Global Challenges, Local Potential
A highlight was the expert panel featuring speakers from Poland, Germany, Turkey, and Denmark. Topics included megatrends, national security, energy transformation, and sustainability. Dr. Carsten Kuhlgatz praised the format as a major step forward for Poland’s foundry sector.
Innovation on Display
FOCAST showcased practical solutions such as thin-wall casting, AI applications, ERP systems, vacuum distillation, and spectrometry. Key institutions like AGH University, Łukasiewicz Network, and Abas Business Solutions presented technologies focused on automation, digitalization, and energy efficiency.
Prof. Dańko noted: – Amid environmental and energy challenges, there’s also opportunity: with modern technologies like additive manufacturing, we can improve flexibility and production efficiency.
Industry Meets People
Beyond presentations, FOCAST fostered valuable networking—formally and informally—through events like “Foundry & Friends Meetup.” Industry bodies and technical schools further enriched the dialogue. Media partners Foundry-Planet and Przegląd Odlewnictwa added international visibility.
Looking Ahead
FOCAST 2025 confirmed the Polish foundry industry's momentum. Strong participation, forward-looking debates, and a focus on innovation, sustainability, and cross-sector cooperation signal a vibrant future—where science meets practice and tradition meets transformation.
