The interview was conducted by Thomas Fritsch, Editor-in-Chief of Foundry-Planet GmbH
Solutions for pressure, die casting and gravity casting – from the cradle of Italian mechanical engineering
FP: ItalPresseGauss has been a fixture in the light metal casting industry for decades. How important is it for you to operate as an independent company again after the recent reorganisation?
Alberto Forcolin:
"Regaining our independence is hugely motivating for us. It allows ItalPresseGauss to focus entirely on our core values – flexibility, unconditional commitment to our customers' needs and a proactive response to market demands. At the same time, it opens up new scope for creativity and innovation. We can now make strategic decisions much more agilely, thereby strengthening our position in the global light metal casting industry.‘
Alberto Magoutiere:
’For our production teams, independence means above all more freedom in planning and implementing work processes. We can respond more quickly to customer requests, optimise processes and implement improvements directly. This ensures that every machine is manufactured efficiently and to the highest quality standards."
Brescia – origin, identity and quality promise
FP: Your location in the Brescia region is considered the cradle of modern die casting. To what extent does this tradition still shape ItalPresseGauss's DNA today?
Alberto Forcolin:
"The Brescia region has had a profound influence on our DNA. Its heritage of precision engineering and die casting innovation continues to shape our approach today. Our products continue to stand for craftsmanship, reliability and technical excellence – values that stem directly from this tradition.‘
Alberto Magoutiere:
’For production, this heritage means a daily commitment to precision and quality. Every process – from assembly to final inspection – reflects the attention to detail and quality standards that have always defined our manufacturing approach."
Global markets in transition – opportunities through electromobility and new applications
FP: You supply foundries worldwide, particularly in the automotive industry. How has the market changed recently – and where do you currently see the greatest opportunities for growth?
Alberto Forcolin:
‘The market has changed fundamentally as a result of the global trend towards electrification. Lightweight materials are becoming increasingly important, and automation is also growing rapidly. While classic castings remain important, we see enormous growth potential in the field of electric vehicles, structural components and high-performance industrial applications. That is why we are clearly focusing our strategy on actively supporting these developments.’
Alberto Magoutiere:
"For production, this means adapting our processes and equipment so that we can manufacture machines for larger and more complex components. Due to the increasing quantities, we are already starting intensive coordination between engineering, procurement and assembly in the design phase – in line with the principle of production-oriented design. This is crucial for optimising processes both in assembly and in subsequent installation, and for ensuring that every machine meets our customers' requirements exactly."
Sustainability and digitalisation – the new guiding principle of die-casting technology
FP: Sustainability, digitalisation and AI are considered key issues for the future. What role do software and process integration play in your machine concepts? And how is the mechanics evolving?
Alberto Forcolin:
‘Software integration and process automation have long been indispensable. We develop intelligent die casting systems that combine process optimisation with energy-efficient operation. Mechanically, the trend is clearly towards larger, more complex components – with even greater precision.’
Alberto Magoutiere:
‘Our software solutions, such as HMe and ECOFIT, are designed to be easy to integrate and set up. This enables us to quickly put advanced control and monitoring functions into operation. As a result, we increase machine performance, simplify operation and make efficiency and sustainability advances tangible for our customers.’
Large machines and structural components – gigapresses for new requirements
FP: You recently installed an IP 4600 at an Italian Tier 1 supplier – already a gigapress. How do you see the market for large machines and structural components in Europe, Asia and the USA?
Alberto Forcolin:
‘The installation of the TFs 4600 clearly shows that demand for high-capacity machines continues to rise in Italy as well. Europe, Asia and the USA are investing equally in large structural components, especially for electric vehicles. Requirements vary from region to region, but globally the trend towards larger, more efficient presses is clear.’
Alberto Magoutiere:
‘Large machines require extremely precise coordination of assembly, testing and commissioning. We have developed specialised processes to handle these complex systems efficiently and ensure that we reliably meet both delivery dates and performance standards worldwide.’
Partnership in transformation
FP: Many foundries are under pressure to reposition themselves – due to electromobility, new materials or global competition. How does ItalPresseGauss support its customers in this transformation?
Alberto Forcolin:
"We closely support our customers through all phases of transition – whether it's new materials, the switch to electromobility or the optimisation of their production. We offer tailor-made solutions, consulting and training to ensure that they remain competitive and can actively drive innovation.‘
Alberto Magoutiere:
’In practice, this means support with machine setup, process adjustments and training. This ensures that new machines are put into operation quickly, reliably and efficiently."
Italian mechanical engineering worldwide – quality as an ambassador
FP: How important is Italian mechanical engineering in international comparison – and how do you intend to position ItalPresseGauss even more strongly globally?
Alberto Forcolin:
‘Italian mechanical engineering stands for quality, innovation and reliability worldwide. This heritage is of great value to us. We want to further strengthen our international presence – with technological know-how and advanced technical solutions.’
Alberto Magoutiere:
‘We put this heritage into practice in our production: through consistent quality, reliability and precision. Every product contributes to further strengthening our brand internationally.’
Outlook for EUROGUSS 2026
FP: In January 2026, the industry will meet in Nuremberg for EUROGUSS. Will ItalPresseGauss be represented there – and what can visitors expect?
Alberto Forcolin:
‘Yes, we will be represented at EUROGUSS 2026 in Nuremberg. Visitors can look forward to our latest die-casting solutions – with a clear focus on sustainability and digitalisation. The trade fair will be an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas, learn new things and experience our innovations first-hand.’
