The Bavarian Government approved funding for the Technology Transfer Center (TTZ) in Marktheidenfeld last month. We also helped the brand-new research facility. The TTZ is a research center at the Würzburg-Schweinfurt University of Applied Sciences (THWS) that focuses on 3D printing and artificial intelligence (AI) research (additive manufacturing). About this, we questioned Prof. Dr. Heiko Wenzel-Schinzer (HWS) three times.
The aim of the TTZ research will be “Sustainable digital and additive production.” Has WENZEL acquired any real-world experience in these fields?
HWS: These are fascinating subjects for us because we are both suppliers and demanders in the context of the TTZ research focus.
WENZEL EcoLine, the first machine series whose design is totally centered on the concept of sustainability, was introduced this year. We retrieve used equipment from the market that has been in use for more than 20 years in order to accomplish this. Next, we take the durable components of the machine, like our granite machine bed, and outfit them with modern technologies. In terms of numbers, we continue to use more than 2/3 of the machine’s components while building a brand-new machine that will last for another 20 to 30 years. By doing this, we reduce our carbon footprint from a new machine by around 50%. But this is just the beginning. There will undoubtedly be many more ideas generated by the TTZ.
We employ this technology in the area of additive manufacturing ourselves for some components, but our clients are primarily the ones that present it to us. Using our exaCT computer tomographs, we measure not only internal structures but also external contours. They take on a lot of significance for additive components since they allow for the analysis and search of flaws while also enabling the production of complicated components from hybrid materials.
Do you already have plans for future cooperation between WENZEL and the TTZ, i.e. between business and science?
In terms of sustainability and additive manufacturing, we have specific proposals. But, we must now wait to see how the role is filled. We will then begin.
Do you think that the project will attract new professionals to the region?
Certainly, we are convinced that a functioning TTZ can help the region retain qualified people. Several students relocate to bigger cities to further their education before searching for their first employers and work opportunities. Young people will learn about and develop an appreciation for intriguing companies like ours in the area if the region can establish early connections through exciting projects.
Credits: Wenzel
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