The Research Group Mechanical and Polymer Engineering conducts a wide range of research and teaching activities in plastics technology.
Key topics include polymer processing, especially additive manufacturing, polymer materials science, component design, and the simulation of components and processing methods.
In this wide-ranging field, driven by novel advancements in materials, design methodologies, and processing techniques, considerations relating to the sustainable utilization of polymers are assuming an increasingly important role.
Fields of Activity
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Polymer Processing
The focus is on conventional processing methods, including flat film and blown film extrusion, injection molding, and thermoforming for further processing.
The working group can produce its own compounds on a twin-screw extruder with connected granulation for recipe development. The compounds can be processed into semi-finished products using the existing equipment, e.g. by means of flat film extrusion, and the properties of the products can be tested. Moreover, the injection molding process can be utilized to produce test specimens for subsequent material characterization.
The impact of material and processing parameters on the resultant process is invariably a pivotal consideration, as is the enhancement of productivity.
Additional information regarding the processing methods employed by the working group can be found here.
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Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing has become a major driver of innovation and product development in recent years.
A wide range of issues arising from further developments in the processes and materials, e.g., TPE in SLS processing, are being considered.
The research group investigates the relationships between powder handling and preparation, process control, and achievable component properties. Inline process monitoring and approaches to optimizing processing are of particular interest.
The activities are bundled in the research area Additive Manufacturing at HSHL. Further information can be found here.
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Materials Science
In addition to processing, measuring the properties of polymer materials is also an important factor, for example, in the development of recipes.
The Research Group is equipped with an array of measuring devices that facilitate the determination of the mechanical and thermal properties of samples or manufactured test specimens.
Rheological properties that are critical for effective processing methods can be determined to a considerable extent.
Comprehensive information regarding the array of measurement methods at the disposal of the research group can be found here.
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Simulation
The activities center on the simulation and prediction of both processing methods and component properties.
A comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the product, including material and processing aspects, is obtained through the measurement of properties, such as those in the mechanical or rheological field. This understanding is then utilized to calibrate material models.
The development of suitable measurement methods and devices for recording the desired variables is an important field of activity for the working group.
A wide variety of software packages are used in the areas of FEM and DEM.
Additional information regarding the simulation tools utilized in the research group can be found here.
