Forming technology

The laboratory for forming technology is used in many ways in research, teaching and technology transfer. A practical course has been offered for more than 17 years and conveys practical skills under constant improvement. Very good are the learning results of so-called "laboratory lectures" where the lecture takes place in the midst of machines, tools and workpieces. With haptics as a learning element, one simply grasps better and faster.

In addition to traditional processes, research is being carried out in the Forming Technology Laboratory on process development for the production of double-walled tubes. This includes applications for heated or cooled tubes as well as crash structures in the front end of car bodies.

Technology transfer varies from case to case. On the one hand, local industry uses the machines and systems, for example to machine tools or produce samples. On the other hand, there are systematic studies on the behavior of the materials during forming. The metrological equipment is extensive and suitable for many applications. Both students and companies benefit from this type of collaboration. Various cutting processes round off the portfolio.

The equipment in the laboratory has been specifically selected to cover a wide range of forming applications. At the heart of the laboratory are five forming presses with press forces ranging from 400 to 6300 kN, equipped with modern control systems and metrological accessories. In addition, there are special machines and test stands, such as a bending part test stand and a clinching unit for clinching, i.e. joining sheet metal parts by forming. The local industry gratefully supports these activities.