Dear Readers!

In a rapidly changing economic and technological environment, die-casting remains one of the key sectors of modern industry. The transformation of the automotive sector, growing quality requirements and pressure on efficiency and sustainable development make the industry intensively search for new operating models. This issue of Przegląd Odlewnictwa 3–4/2026 has been prepared especially for the conference ‘Innovations in Die Casting’ – an event which, for the past 18 years, has been one of the most important forums for the exchange of knowledge and experience within the foundry industry. This conference has established itself as a meeting place for representatives from industry, academia and technology providers, where research findings are tested against real-world manufacturing challenges. Its significance stems from the practical nature of the solutions presented. The topics covered in this issue also reflect the main areas of this subject.

In ABAS’s article, ‘The Modern Aluminium Foundry: Data-Driven Decisions as the Standard for Management’, the company highlights the importance of digitalisation and the use of data as the cornerstone of modern foundries’ operations.

In turn, the article by Ficosa International Foundry, entitled ‘The integrated foundry as the cornerstone of modern automotive manufacturing’, highlights the role of technological and organisational investments in establishing a foothold within global supply chains.

Wojciech Kowalczyk’s article, ‘Less is more – but not for everyone: the new reality of die-casting’, examines the impact of the slowdown in the automotive sector on the state of the industry.

An important addition to the conference proceedings is the article ‘An innovative, comprehensive service for the manufacture and finishing of aluminium components for the furniture industry – experiences and results of the Aludesign SA R&D project‘, which highlights the importance of research and development projects in creating added value, whilst Jarosław Piątkowski’s study ‘Development trends in the casting of car rims from Al-Si-Mg alloys‘ analyses the directions of development in casting technologies.

The issue also features an interview with Leszek Walczyk, Chairman of the Management Board, entitled ‘A new dimension of growth – Odlewnie Polskie SA enters the defence sector’, which outlines the company’s plans for business diversification and the use of advanced materials such as ADI. The foundry’s entry into the defence sector ensures stable revenues and greater resilience to market fluctuations. At the same time, it incorporates new innovative technologies into its production processes.

We hope that this volume will serve as a valuable complement to the conference proceedings and provide inspiration for further action and the implementation of innovations in industrial practice.

Magdalena Baryła – Editor-in-Chief