Fraunhofer IWU
Fraunhofer research institute specializing in joining and assembly technology, with expertise in additive manufacturing processes
- CEO / Founder
- Prof. Dr. Welf-Guntram Drossel
- Team Size
- 201-500
- Stage
- Active
Technology & Products
Key Products
Research and development in production engineering, including additive manufacturing processes, and a patent for manufacturing hollow profiles with sections of different wall thicknesses.
Technological Advantage
Proprietary SEAM technology allows 3D printing of large plastic parts at speeds up to 7kg/h using standard granulate, reducing material costs by up to 90% vs filaments.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Bridges the gap between lab-scale 3D printing and industrial series production by optimizing process stability, speed, and integration with conventional manufacturing.
How They Differentiate
Unique focus on integrating AM into traditional forming and machine tool environments, enabling hybrid manufacturing processes that combine 3D printing with conventional machining.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Industrial manufacturing companies seeking to integrate or optimize additive manufacturing in their production lines.
Industry Verticals
Automotive; Aerospace; Tooling; Mechanical Engineering; Medical
Competitors
Springer Nature, TNO, VTT
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Employs ~670 staff across 5 locations; manages the Fraunhofer Competence Field Additive Manufacturing involving 20+ institutes.
Major Milestones
Founded in 1991; Developed SEAM high-speed 3D printing system in 2019; Established as HQ for Fraunhofer AM Competence Field
Notable Customers
Volkswagen; BMW; Siemens; Airbus