Developing and integrating future-oriented, laser-based processes in cooperation with companies – that is what the Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) stands for. From April 24th to 28th, the research institute is presenting efficient, individual, lightweight and smart solutions at the Hannover Messe 2017. The LZH will be exhibiting under the main topic “Integrating Light – Your Partner LZH” at the pavilion of State of Lower Saxony in hall 2, stand A08.
Efficient working under water using the laser
Working under water is both time-consuming and personnel-intensive, and especially difficult in the deep sea. The LZH is thus working on automated, laser-based systems for efficient use under water. At the fair, the institute is presenting a system for cutting sheet piling in port areas. Also, the LZH is showing how natural resources on the seabed can be detected in the future.
Individual structures with additive manufacturing
With various additive manufacturing processes the LZH can produce individual structures out of plastic or metal, from the macro to the nano scale. At the fair, the LZH is showing different components made using deposition welding, selective laser melting, stereolithography and nozzle-based processes, as well as two-photon-polymerization. Experts on-site will be advising which process is best for individual solutions.
Lightweight components for automobile construction and shipbuilding
Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) and aluminum are being used more and more in the automotive and shipbuilding sectors. The LZH is developing new concepts for processing and repairing CFRP, as well as for joining aluminum and steel. At the fair, the LZH is presenting automated processes for three-dimensional CFRP workpieces. Also, steel-aluminum welding will be shown, which can be used in shipbuilding for joining superstructures to the hull.
Process monitoring and control with smart components
With smart components with integrated sensors, it is possible to monitor, control and optimize processing. This can be done by using lasers to directly “write” sensors on component surfaces. Thus, stress and vibrations can be measured accurately online. At the Hannover Messe, the LZH is presenting a strain sensor and a laser coded shaft.
There are two figures for this press release.