08.02.2026

The Metallurgy Trade Association will operate under a new name in future

©VDMA
Dr.-Ing. Timo Würz, Managing Director of Metallurgy & Thermoprocessing. Image: VDMA

The trade association is taking an important step in its further development: with the approved name change to “Metallurgy & Thermoprocessing’, it is strengthening its international focus and raising the profile of key industry issues, as Dr.-Ing. Timo Würz, Managing Director of Metallurgy & Thermoprocessing at the VDMA, explains below.

Why the name change has taken place: The Metallurgy Technical Association was formed in 2017 through the merger of the three former technical associations for foundry machinery, metallurgical and rolling mill equipment, and thermoprocessing technology. Since then, these areas have continued as specialist groups within the association – with significant overlaps in content and closely interlinked industry topics.
Whilst the previous name ‘Metallurgy’ had a positive effect on the association’s positioning, Nevertheless, it became increasingly apparent that thermal process technology was not sufficiently visible within the overall picture. In particular, companies from the glass, ceramics and other process industries, as well as component suppliers such as combustion technology or fuel delivery systems, did not always recognise the association clearly from its name.
What are the benefits of the new name?

  • Greater visibility for thermoprocessing technology both within and outside the association
  • A clearer international focus thanks to the standardised English name
  • Strengthening the representation of all specialist groups, particularly vis-à-vis markets and partners not directly involved in metal production
  • No changes to the content: The technical work and structure of the organisation remain unchanged


With ‘Metallurgy & Thermoprocessing’, the trade association is sending a strong signal in favour of a modern, transparent and internationally compatible positioning. The rebranding recognises the diversity of the member companies and lays a clear foundation for the successful further development of their joint work.
Source: VDMA