Research Line Bulk Metal Forming

The Institute of Metal Forming Technology at the University of Stuttgart has a longstanding tradition of research in the field of bulk forming, with a particular focus on cold bulk forming, spanning several decades. The institute's research program is oriented towards a comprehensive understanding of the process, commencing with numerical modelling of process flows, continuing through to process design, and concluding with experimental testing and model validation. Since the inception of the institute's research activities in the late 1950s, the development of novel cold extrusion processes has constituted a central focus. The institute's research activities have focused on a number of key areas, including structural and material lightweight construction, the cold forming of geared transmission components, digitalization and process control, and the production of multi-component composite parts. The institute develops innovative technological solutions through the characterization of process-specific material properties and friction conditions using a wide range of numerical methods, experimental validation, and analysis of the operational properties of cold-formed components. In addition to fundamental research, the institute addresses current practical issues through industrial projects, focusing on process and tool design, as well as experimental testing in the institute's test field.