The Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU is a driving force for innovation in the field of production technology research and development. With around 670 highly qualified employees at the Chemnitz, Dresden, Leipzig, Wolfsburg and Zittau sites, we develop potential for competitive manufacturing in automotive and mechanical engineering, aerospace, medical technology, electrical engineering, precision engineering and microtechnology. Science and contract research focus on components, methods and processes as well as the associated complex machine systems – the entire factory.
As a leading institute for resource-efficient production, we develop technologies and intelligent production systems for car body and powertrain components. We optimise forming, machining and joining production steps. In doing so, we focus on the entire process chain in line with regenerative systems and the circular economy. The development of innovative lightweight structures and technologies for processing new materials, the transfer of functions in assemblies, the utilisation of the far-reaching possibilities of additive manufacturing and, last but not least, the economical use of fuel cell technologies are important success factors.
The working group ‘Digital System Twin and Virtual Commissioning’ carries out application-motivated research in the field of simulation methods relating to fuel cell technology.
