Einleitung

A significant contribution to the development of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) process has been made in Germany. In the course of 25 years, a highly innovative industry has emerged, characterized by medium-sized companies. As a formless manufacturing process, LPBF is a central component of the current digital transformation of production. Especially when using zinc, it is in line with the overarching goals of resource conservation and sustainability, respectively.

In addition to more design options in component construction, the process results in a finer microstructure, which leads to good mechanical properties. Like this for example, material can be saved or properties can be varied locally. Due to the corrosion properties and good biocompatibility, individual, biodegradable medical Zn implants are also conceivable. However, the industrial breakthrough of LPBF with Zn in Germany is still hampered by imponderables that will be addressed in this project.

Approach: Dense LPBF components can only be achieved if the process parameters are accurately optimized for the powder properties. This requires powder management including production, storage and recycling. Due to the low melting point of Zn, aging and creep processes are important factors to be considered in the design, but have not yet been investigated for LPBF structures. This is achieved by establishing process-property relationships based on the analysis of the state-dependent hierarchical structure and mechanical properties.

Ihre Aufgaben

The master thesis is limited to 6 months and will include the following practical aspects:

• Assistance in the melting of the alloys
• Powder management, powder recycling
• Assistance in additive manufacturing
• Artificial aging experiments
• Characterization of material and AM parts
  • Preparation of metallographic cross sections
  • Optical microscopy
  • Hardness
  • Tensile testing
  • Evaluation of results​​​​​​​

Ihr Profil

You are a committed student (m/f/d) specialising in materials science, metallurgy, physics and mechanical engineering.

Wir bieten

• An highly varied and interesting job
• A modern and innovative technology environment
• Thorough familiarisation with the special requirements and methods
• Flexible working hours and appropriate remuneration
• as well as many friendly and competent colleagues

Weitere Informationen

We look forward to receiving your application with a covering letter, CV and certificates under the reference 25MK08S.

Your contact for all questions relating to careers and work at the fem:

Mrs Beate Bäuerle

Your contact for all questions about the project:

Dr. Alexander Heiß

[email protected]

fem Research Institute

Katharinenstr. 13–17

73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany

[email protected]

+49 7171 1006-101