BA/MA Highly productive processing of the aluminium alloy using laser powder bed fusion

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.

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology LLT at RWTH Aachen University, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT, Europe's leading center for basic and contract research in the field of laser technology, is offering the opportunity to write a thesis in the field of "Application Development" on the topic of "Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing processes".

Due to their low material density, aluminum materials are a preferred material for lightweight construction applications in industries such as aerospace engineering. The additive manufacturing process of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) enables new, complex component geometries and potential for weight reduction. Due to their properties, aluminum materials tend to form defects during remelting. The build-up rates achieved to date are low, which is why post-compaction using hot isostatic pressing is necessary. This work aims to achieve higher build-up rates with a material density of over 99% through improved LPBF process control.

What you will do

Literature research on the state of the art
Planning and execution of tests to increase the build-up rate using LPBF on the basis of the alloy AlSi10Mg
Evaluation of the test specimens with regard to relative material density, microstructure, hardness and mechanical properties and correlation of the results with the LPBF process control
Written documentation and elaboration of the results

What you bring to the table

You are studying an engineering degree program (e.g. mechanical engineering, materials engineering, materials science) and have basic knowledge of additive manufacturing processes
Interest in application-oriented research and you develop your own ideas and solutions independently and in a structured manner
Independent, organized and structured way of working

What you can expect

A professional and dynamic working atmosphere
A creative and interdisciplinary working environment in a highly motivated team
Excellent machinery and equipment
Exciting and challenging areas of work in applied research
Freedom to develop your own ideas, projects for your field of study
Flexible working hours that allow you to combine your studies and professional practice
Very good transportation options (bus, car)
Exciting seminars, events and team-building measures

The position is limited to the end 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:

M. Sc. Thomas Laag

Phone: +49 241 8906-511

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 72604 Application Deadline: 05/31/2024

Job Segment: Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Materials Science, Aerospace, Engineering, Science, Aviation, Research

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