City:  Aachen
Date:  Apr 20, 2024

BA/MA Innovation potential in laser-based metallic 3D printing with power ultrasound

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research institutions throughout Germany and is the world’s leading applied research organization. Around 30 800 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.0 billion euros. 

The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT is Europe's leading centre for contract research and development in the field of laser technology. In close co-operation with partners from industry and research, the ILT is involved in the further development of the additive manufacturing process Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). With LPBF, metallic components with almost any complex geometry can be additively manufactured using a layer-by-layer structure. The wide range of applications includes components in the automotive industry, aerospace and medical technology. In cooperation with the department of Laser Technology at RWTH Aachen University, LLT, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT offers the opportunity to write a thesis in the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) department.

 

In order to enable a broader industrial application of LPBF, both the productivity of the process must be increased and the range of materials to be processed must be expanded. The use of ultrasonic vibrations in LPBF offers a new approach to achieving these goals. The idea of this work is to integrate a module for the excitation of the process zone into an existing test facility in order to be able to investigate known approaches from welding technology in the LPBF process.

 

What you will do

  • Development and integration of a power ultrasound module
  • Experimental work on process development
  • Literature research on ultrasound applications in related processes

 

What you bring to the table

  • You are studying industrial engineering, mechanical engineering or a comparable degree programme
  • You enjoy working independently and on your own responsibility, would like to support a well-coordinated and dynamic team and contribute to a field of research that is unique in the world
  • Knowledge of materials science and heat and mass transfer is advantageous, but not essential 
  • Good German and English language skills are essential

 

What you can expect

  • Practice-orientated thesis in an innovative working environment
  • A creative and interdisciplinary working environment in a highly motivated team
  • Excellent machinery and equipment
  • Exciting and challenging areas of work in applied research
  • Good transport links (bus connection, free multi-storey car park)
  • Flexible working hours that allow you to combine your studies and professional practice

 

The position is limited until the completion of the thesis.

 

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. 

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

 

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:

Marvin Kippels
Phone: +49 241 8906-346

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT 

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 71387                Application Deadline: 05/31/2024

 


Job Segment: Ultrasound, Materials Science, Facilities, R&D Engineer, Medical Technologist, Healthcare, Science, Operations, Engineering