Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM
Powder Technology and Particle Simulation
We help you to make the production of dimensionally accurate and defect-free components more efficient by simulating powder technology process steps and chains. A second focus is the modeling and simulation of mechanisms and processes in which complex or particle-laden fluids play an essential role. Through this work, we improve products and processes, shorten development times and help our customers to save costs. Our simulation methods are diverse and we work with a wide range of granular material systems and particle-laden fluids.
R&D services for powder technology and particle simulation
Evaluating the influence of process and material parameters
In many of the questions we are asked, the influence of process conditions and material parameters on the final product properties is of great importance. We offer two approaches: On the one hand, abstracted models and simplified approaches allow a quick evaluation of the essential parameters. On the other hand, complex numerical simulation models allow detailed insights into the processes taking place and specific optimization proposals.
Development of material models
Commercial simulation packages often lack detailed material models, which are necessary for realistic predictions for specific manufacturing processes. At Fraunhofer IWM, we adapt existing material models for a number of selected powder technology processes to specific customer requirements. In addition, we offer the development of individual solutions to meet our customers' requirements.
Determination of model parameters
Realistic numerical simulations require high-quality model parameters. By combining sophisticated experiments with targeted simulations, we create model parameter sets for defined simulation scenarios for our clients' Materials. These parameters can then be used either for in-house simulations or as a basis for further specific process simulations at Fraunhofer IWM to solve specific customer problems.
Development of digital twins
When mapping a real production process on a computer, we often speak of a digital twin. In cooperation with our customers, we develop executable digital twins for our own simulation code SimPARTIX as well as for common commercial FE packages. This reduces both the time required and the simulation know-how required by our customers and enables them to independently carry out their own simulations .
Why should my company collaborate with the Fraunhofer IWM in the fields of powder technology and particle simulation?
With our integrated research approach, we build a bridge between your manufacturing process and the desired component properties. Depending on the problem, we look at individual process steps in detail or complete process chains. The combination of our simulations with targeted experiments ensures practice-relevant predictions.
As simulation experts with many years of experience in the application of various powder technology manufacturing processes, we can also realistically model your process on the computer. With our numerical and materials science know-how, we support our customers in the development of their own simulation models.
We stand for smooth and transparent project management. Direct and uncomplicated communication during the course of the project is a matter of course for us.