The company said that SMW Autoblok Group, a supplier of industrial fixture solutions, has acquired Tecnomanete, the world's leading manufacturer of permanent magnet clamping and lifting systems.

Founded in 1974, Tecnomagnete invented new ways to use these types of magnetic systems to perfect the holding and lifting of parts, and to create an almost trouble-free manufacturing environment.

Tecnomanete is headquartered in Milan, Italy, with branches in the United States, Germany, France and China, providing services to the manufacturing and material handling industries, including automobiles, molds, oil and gas, energy, infrastructure, steel, shipbuilding, plastics and transportation. The company's advanced technology invented the use of permanent magnet systems for component clamping, injection molding, stamping and lifting.

"We are very excited about acquiring Tecnomagnete and providing more professional workholding capabilities to help customers meet their diverse manufacturing needs," said Larry Robbins, president of SMW Autoblok's commercial department. "Their technology is the perfect complement to our growing products, and we look forward to future developments."

The new Mag Autoblok division of SMW Autoblok includes a full range of permanent electromagnetic chuck systems for fast and flexible clamping of workpieces on horizontal and vertical milling machines, vertical turning centers, FMS systems, grinders, EDM, etc. A full range of magnetic elevators for loading and unloading workpieces are also provided.