With a new research cell for friction stir welding (FSW), the Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences, together with KUKA Systems AWS, expands its capabilities for the development and testing of innovative manufacturing processes. The centerpiece of the system is the new KR FORTEC ultra MT, specifically designed for highly loaded FSW and machining applications. The combination of industrial robotics, digital technologies, and scientific research aims to accelerate the transition of new applications from development to production.
Research under real production conditions
With the new system, the university is deliberately focusing on an industrial platform rather than a classic laboratory solution. This allows processes and applications to be studied under conditions that will later be relevant in industrial manufacturing. The insights gained are intended to help companies evaluate new FSW applications more quickly and implement them more efficiently in practice.
“With the KR FORTEC ultra MT, we bring industrial FSW technology directly into research. This lays the foundation for developing new manufacturing processes in a practical manner and accelerating their later implementation in production. Furthermore, the robot cell also provides excellent conditions for use in teaching, for example, in laboratory internships for our degree programs in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and industrial engineering.” – Prof. Dr.-Ing. Frank Trommer, Director Institute for Mechanical Engineering, Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences.
New robot generation for demanding FSW processes
The KR FORTEC ultra MT has been specifically developed for applications that require high process forces, rigidity, and precision. This expands the possibilities of robot-assisted friction stir welding and opens up new potentials for complex components and demanding manufacturing tasks. The system combines friction stir welding and milling in an integrated platform. This allows complete process chains to be developed, optimized, and validated in one environment.
“It was particularly important for us to equip the university with the latest technology. In particular, the combination of optimized hardware and software, paired with the digital twin and the ability to capture comprehensive process data, rounds off the overall concept,” says Thomas Schmidt, Technical Sales, KUKA Advanced Welding Solutions.
Digitalization accelerates industrialization
Another focus is on the comprehensive digitalization of research processes. With the help of a digital twin and continuous data collection, new processes can be virtually planned, analyzed, and optimized before being transferred to real manufacturing.
The combination of robotics, process know-how, and digital technologies creates a powerful development environment that accelerates research projects and facilitates the transfer of new manufacturing technologies into industrial applications.
Contact:
