Fraunhofer-Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU
The Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU is one of the world’s most important research and development establishments in the field of manufacturing science. Our highly qualified staff based in Chemnitz, Dresden and Augsburg conduct research in the core competencies of adaptronics, mechatronics, machine tools, forming and cutting technology, joining and assembly technology as well as virtual reality.
A main focus of our work includes the development of intelligent production systems and the optimization of forming and cutting manufacturing processes, of course under criteria of resource efficiency. We create innovative solutions for continuous process chains, from the components to the assembly units, all the way up to complex machine systems and completely new kinematics. Lightweight structures and the use of new materials, which are also applied in the aerospace sector, are playing a great role in our research work.
Our range of services for the aerospace sector comprises for example:
- massive and sheet metal forming of high-performance materials for the aircraft engine area
- technologies and equipment for the machining of engine elements
- innovative mechanical joining techniques
- development of intelligent components – for example for positioning systems of helicopters