ETML: A new Era of interoperability in the woodworking industry

The introduction of the European Tool Machine Language (ETML) opens a new chapter in the woodworking industry. ETML is a manufacturer-independent, standardised language for tools and machines that makes it possible to manage tool data over the entire life cycle seamlessly - from initial set-up to regrinding and reuse. Developed under the leadership of EUMABOIS and supported by the VDMA, ETML creates a uniform, open and standardised interface for communication between machines and tools.

We, as the world's leading manufacturer of tools, are not only involved in the development of this standard, but is also actively involved in its implementation. Together with other well-known partners such as AKE, Biesse, JSO, IMA Schelling, Kohnle, Holz-Her, Homag powered by tapio, Leuco, SCM and Weinig, we played a key role in the development and implementation of ETML.

The central element of ETML is the ETML Smart Cloud, a shared platform where verified tool data can be uploaded, managed and downloaded directly to the machines. Each ETML-compliant tool is assigned a unique serial number, enabling precise identification, efficient machine set-up and full integration into digital workflows. The main advantage of ETML over proprietary systems lies in the openness and flexibility of the standard. While proprietary systems restrict data exchange to specific manufacturer environments, ETML offers a universal platform that enables consistent, verified and secure mould data to be used across platforms and manufacturers. This means a significant increase in efficiency in machine and tool communication and at the same time forms the basis for innovative digital services that benefit customers worldwide.

The introduction of ETML is far more than just a technical standard - it is the key to a new era of interoperability, efficiency and transparency in the woodworking industry. The main benefits for the customer include faster and safer machine and tool set-up as well as access to up-to-date tool data, even after sharpening. This significantly reduces human errors and downtime. This solution also forms the basis for new digital services and business models and creates a secure, standardised data infrastructure that can be used manufacturer-independent.

There are two conditions for using ETML. A machine that is connected to the ETML Smart Cloud and can therefore process ETML data, as well as a tool that makes ETML-compliant data available digitally in the Smart Cloud - in other words, both bear the new ‘ETML Verified’ label.

ETML is already being used by the partner companies listed and is freely accessible to all EUMABOIS members - both directly and via national associations such as VDMA, Acimall or other European member organisations