Emerson is set to release a new ultrasonic welding system this summer that aims to help manufacturers streamline operations and adapt quickly to changing production needs.

The Branson Polaris Integrated Welder (IW) is the first model in Emerson’s next-generation Polaris ultrasonic welding platform, designed as an entry-level but highly capable machine that brings greater flexibility, precision and data control to the shop floor.

The Polaris IW comes with a compact, all-in-one structure combining the actuator, power supply, and process controls in a single unit, which allows it to be integrated easily into automated production environments.

Targeted at industries ranging from automotive and textiles to food packaging and consumer electronics, the system is expected to appeal to manufacturers looking to optimise footprint, reduce complexity, and improve productivity.

Cybersecurity measures

The welder features a 7-inch LCD touchscreen with a user-friendly interface that gives operators access to weld history, system diagnostics, alarm logs and recipe settings.

Among other highlights are a load cell for accurate trigger setting, built-in amplitude control, horn diagnostics, and pre-trigger functions. The machine also includes advanced cybersecurity measures to ensure operational integrity.

“Flexibility and control are key to gaining a competitive edge in today’s dynamic market, and manufacturers need solutions as advanced as their challenges,” said Kerryn Harrington, global product manager at Emerson. “The new Branson Polaris IW ultrasonic welder is an exciting first step in our latest initiative to bring welding innovation, scalability and efficiency to the plant floor. As the line expands, the next-generation Polaris ultrasonic welding platform will give manufacturers an innovative, fully configurable system designed to adapt to new demands, so they can continually optimise operations and achieve peak performance now and in the future.”

Emerson said the Polaris IW is the first in a broader line of modular, automation-ready welding systems that will follow. These future systems will offer manufacturers configurable options for controls, software, and power supplies—allowing for a tailored approach to production and real-time performance monitoring.

The new platform underlines Emerson’s strategy of supporting a diverse range of manufacturing environments with scalable tools and technologies, while helping companies maintain safety and compliance as their production evolves.

For more information visit:  https://www.emerson.com/en-us/automation/branson

DMB underscored its contribution to critical infrastructure development

Ducab Metals Business (DMB) highlighted its manufacturing strength and commitment to innovation at the 49th edition of Middle East Energy (MEE) in Dubai, showcasing a portfolio of high-performance, sustainable solutions.

At the event, DMB underscored its contribution to critical infrastructure development, offering cutting-edge products that improve efficiency and reliability across key sectors. The company is taking strategic steps to expand its distribution network, making its materials more accessible to global partners.

This move aims to enhance delivery speed and responsiveness, helping customers meet their project timelines and operational goals more effectively.

Beyond its manufacturing capabilities, DMB continues to invest in advanced technologies and R&D to stay ahead of market trends. This approach not only addresses current industrial needs but anticipates future challenges, keeping the company aligned with international benchmarks and regional sustainability objectives.

As the UAE accelerates its shift toward renewable energy, DMB’s materials will play a vital role in supporting the country's infrastructure upgrades. From power and utilities to automotive, healthcare, and packaging, the company remains a key contributor to industrial growth both locally and globally.

Mohamed Al Ahmedi, Chief Executive Officer of DMB, said, "We are focused on providing solutions that support the region's electrification and enhance the reliability and capacity of power transmission networks. Our expanded manufacturing capabilities will enable us to deliver high-quality products essential for meeting the growing global demand for sustainable infrastructure. By increasing ACSS conductor production, DMB is strengthening its role as a key contributor to power networks worldwide. This expansion, in hand with our sustained investment in regional supply chains, not only reinforces our market presence but also fuels our ambition for regional growth and innovation."

The exhibition will showcase a diverse range of industries

The fourth edition of Make It in the Emirates Forum, the UAE’s premier industrial gathering, has opened visitor and media registration.

Scheduled to take place from 19-22 May at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, this year’s event is set to be the largest to date, bringing together industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to drive economic diversification and industrial growth.

Organised by ADNEC Group and led by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the UAE Ministry of Culture, and ADNOC, the event underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its industrial sector.

It plays a key role in supporting the country’s Operation 300 Billion strategy, which aims to expand the UAE’s manufacturing and industrial capabilities. According to MoIAT, the UAE’s industrial sector contributed AED 205 billion to the national GDP by the end of 2023.

A central feature of Make It in the Emirates 2025 is the forum and exhibition, which will provide companies with valuable insights, strategic partnerships, and direct access to procurement commitments from major UAE entities.

This year’s edition is expected to surpass previous years in both scale and investment opportunities, offering a platform for business leaders to explore pre-approved industrial projects in high-growth sectors.

Facilitating growth

The exhibition will showcase a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, renewable energy, advanced technology, and logistics.

It will also highlight heritage crafts and cutting-edge innovations, reflecting the UAE’s balanced approach to industrial development—blending tradition with technological advancement.

The event aligns with the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for industry and innovation, leveraging its regulatory framework and world-class infrastructure to attract investment.

By highlighting discussions on sustainability, industrial advancements, and future opportunities, Make It in the Emirates 2025 reinforces the country’s position as a leader in economic transformation.

HE Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, said in an earlier press statement, “This forum and its accompanying exhibitions have evolved into a regional and international platform, capitalising on vast investment opportunities in smart manufacturing, sustainable industrialisation and advanced technologies. In collaboration with its partners, the ministry is implementing a new strategy to enhance the event’s leadership both regionally and globally. This strategy aims to attract innovators and emerging industries, support national goals around sustainable economic development, and establish robust local and international partnerships.

“The fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates Forum will be characterised by collaboration between the public and private sectors, including the partnership between MoIAT and ADNEC, benefitting from both sectors’ logistical capabilities, financial solutions, and incentives to enhance the forum’s impact. This edition will create promising opportunities for investors to establish and expand their businesses, helping them to access key markets and boost their products’ competitiveness regionally and globally. It contributed in increasing the growth of manufacturing facilities within the country by 10% annually. The forum will transcend borders, unveiling international agreements and opportunities worth billions of dirhams, offering diverse job opportunities, showcasing success stories from international companies operating in the UAE, and emphasising innovation and manufacturing.”

Also read: How are Gulf nations developing a circular economy?

The GCC is steering toward zero landfill as part of its ambitious net-zero targets.

Fadi Al-Shihabi, partner, sustainability solutions leader at KPMG Middle East, pens a piece on how the fossil fuel legacy can used as a blueprint for developing a circular economy. 

Transforming manufacturing is the key to reducing waste and energy consumption, promoting responsible consumption and reducing environmental impact.

In this context, the evolution of the Gulf's manufacturing sector is a testament to the region's adaptability and foresight. We are also seeing the enhancement of value chains in the region through the production of more raw materials locally, fostering cross-sector synergies to boost industrial localisation efforts.

By leveraging their expertise in energy production and their significant financial resources, GCC nations are not only keeping pace with global sustainability trends but are setting new standards in socio-economic development.

Making the circular economy a reality in the GCC

The GCC is steering toward zero landfill as part of its ambitious net-zero targets. Key efforts include waste-to-energy projects and increased recycling, both of which are reshaping the manufacturing sector, by promoting green, circular economy practices and advancing sustainable development across the region.

Additionally, research continues to drive innovation, particularly in advanced waste conversion technologies. The UAE introduced a circular economy policy in 2021, which implements resource efficiency, minimises waste, and fosters economic value from materials traditionally considered waste.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia's bold recycling initiative aims to recycle 95% of its waste, contributing US$31.99bn to GDP, creating 100,000 jobs, and positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in sustainability by 2040 through advanced waste management strategies.

Another neighbour, Qatar's Ministry of Municipality plans to build an engineered landfill in Al Khor, adhering to the highest international standards, and operating a plant for recycling materials.

In Saudi Arabia, Clorox's Dammam and Jeddah plants have already achieved 100% zero waste to landfill. Additionally, KAUST startup Edama Organic Solutions has opened the Kingdom's first organic waste recycling facility at the KAUST Research. Oman too is launching its first Waste-to-Energy (WTE) project, which is expected to cut landfill carbon emissions by 50 million tons over 35 years.

Each of these projects exemplify the shift to a circular economy, with resource efficiency principles woven into national economic and environmental strategies. The approach goes beyond just waste reduction, aiming to extract value from it instead.

An example is the ambitious e-waste recycling project in Salalah, the largest in Oman. This initiative tackles the rising issue of electronic waste while creating new economic opportunities, solidifying Oman’s position as a leader in sustainable waste management and resource efficiency.

Overcoming obstacles

There is no doubt that the shift towards sustainability is opening new markets and driving demand for eco-friendly products and services. Companies that prioritise sustainability are finding themselves at a competitive advantage, fostering both environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

Despite notable progress, several hurdles still impede the full implementation of effective waste management systems. With robust regulations still being in the works, and high initial costs, particularly for advanced technologies, remain a significant barrier. Additionally, on a wider scale, limited recycling infrastructure restricts broader adoption.

Additionally, greater public awareness and engagement are needed to drive meaningful behavioral change. These challenges also offer opportunities for innovation, investment, and policy reform. By addressing these issues, the region could unlock more cost-effective solutions, foster new partnerships, and pave the way for sustainable and efficient waste management practices.

Gulf nations are also tapping into their energy production expertise to drive waste-to-energy initiatives, marking a decisive move toward sustainable development. This niche area of expertise that had traditionally been utilised in oil wealthy nations but has been rare to find globally, is an essential piece of the puzzle to extend the reach of renewable energy and its accessibility.

The road ahead

The road to a circular economy and waste reduction is set to positively impact the employment market, as the Middle East invests around US$1 trillion in clean energy over the next decade, marking a transformative shift in the region’s economic landscape. This substantial investment is projected to generate around 300,000 new jobs by 2030 and inject an additional US$100bn into the regional economy, underscoring the Gulf's growing commitment to sustainable growth and energy diversification.

Also read: Can AI truly revolutionise manufacturing efficiency?