City:  Aachen
Date:  Jul 15, 2025

Thesis on the Development of a process monitoring system for laser beam welding (m/w/d)

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros. 

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology at RWTH Aachen University (LLT), the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT, Europe's leading center for contract research and development in the field of laser technology, offers the opportunity for a thesis in the "Joining and Separating" department. Become part of our #OneTeam and write your thesis with us on site in Aachen.

Cylindrical battery cells are widely used in many applications due to their standardized design, high stability and good heat dissipation. Laser beam welding is preferred for electrical interconnection in module construction, as it enables high precision and short cycle times. However, joining different materials such as aluminum and steel poses process-related challenges - particularly due to the formation of brittle intermetallic phases.

The aim of this work is to analyze the measurement data recorded with a process monitoring system in order to identify possible welding irregularities and to evaluate changes in the formation of intermetallic phases.

 

 

What you will do

  • Your tasks include researching and documenting the state of the art
  • Evaluating existing preliminary work and preparing the experimental series is part of your responsibilities
  • You will plan and conduct laser welding experiments
  • Additionally, you will evaluate and interpret measurement and test data
  • Moreover, you will document and discuss the results

 

What you bring to the table

  • You are studying mechanical engineering, materials science, or a comparable field
  • You have an interest in laser material processing in application-oriented research
  • You demonstrate an independent, organized, and structured working style.

 

What you can expect

👥 Team spirit: Creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and a casual culture.  
🖥 Workplace: Excellent equipment with machines and devices as well as top-notch office facilities.  
💪 Co-design: Practice-oriented thesis in an innovative environment of applied research.  
🧘 Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.  
➕ Benefits: Opportunity to take advantage of exciting corporate benefits.  
🚐 Accessibility: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an E-charging station, and a parking garage.

 

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. 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!

 

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this position:
Mr. Hao Guo M. Sc.
Phone: +49 241 8906-513

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT 

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 80563                Application Deadline: 09/15/2024

 


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