Liebherr delivers complex 3D-printed components for Airbus‘ A350 fleet.
Aviation meets additive manufacturing
How do you know Liebherr? Refrigerators perhaps? Or construction machinery? In any case, you wouldn't have thought of aerospace first, right? But Liebherr's know-how in New Materials and its technological expertise are also of great help in the aerospace sector. This can be seen, for example, in the cooperation between Liebherr and Airbus.
The collaboration has already been running since 2010 and has resulted in many exciting developments: For instance, a spoiler actuator valve block from titanium powder for an Airbus 380. Or 3D-printed proximity sensor bracket for the nose landing gear of Airbus’ A350. And the joint success story in New Materials continues: Now Liebherr has been selected by Airbus to supply the lower cargo door actuating cylinder and valve for the A350. The complex valve will be manufactured using a certified titanium additive layer manufacturing technique.
Why Bavaria drives cross-industry innovation in the New Materials sector.
Business Opportunities
Bavaria offers diverse business opportunities in the New Materials sector. This is mainly due to major corporations from the fields of nanotechnology, semiconductors, additive manufacturing, battery cell recycling, and polymer research that invest in innovation. But there is also a vibrant startup scene driving innovation. And on top of that, many sectors benefit from the dynamic and fast-moving industry, the region’s wealth of natural resources, a skilled labor force, and a supportive infrastructure.
Effective networks
Bavaria is known for its networks. A great example is the New Materials Cluster. It consists of more than 600 companies and scientific institutes. It’s an important source of inspiration for new ideas, closes gaps in the value chains and builds regional, national, and international connections. And it’s not the only one in Bavaria doing so: the MAI Carbon Cluster, the Nanotechnology Cluster, the Chemistry Cluster, the Industrial Biotechnology Cluster, and the Forestry and Wood Cluster are equally important for the development of New Materials.
Access to talent
Bright minds are the key factor for innovations. That’s why Bavarian universities are not only at the forefront of New Materials research. They are also heavily invested in nurturing the next generation of chemists, engineers etc. By supporting research projects and developing vocational training programs, these institutions are ensuring that Bavaria has a steady pipeline of highly skilled talent to drive innovation and secure the region's future as a global leader in New Materials research and development.
Global perspectives
Local connections are great. But international ties make the dream work. Thus, Bavaria’s New Material initiative does not only incorporate the whole of Bavaria – but enjoys strong relationships with global partners. This makes it particularly easy for international players to bring their projects to Bavaria. And to suitable local partners. That’s the reason why not just major players such as Airbus and Liebherr that are working on their innovations here in Bavaria, but also global companies like Samsung, AMD and Texas Instruments found their ways here, too.
New research center for chip technology in the Nuremberg area
Nuremberg is emerging as a key hub for silicon carbide semiconductor advancements. The reason for this is the collaboration between US chip manufacturer Wolfspeed and automotive supplier ZF. Together they are shaping a European high-tech research center in the region. Their shared objective is enhancing silicon carbide semiconductors tailored for the automotive industry, diverse vehicle manufacturers, and green energy systems. Both the federal and Bavarian state governments are backing the endeavor.
The partners are pursuing manifold goals. Their center aims to elevate chip efficiency, power density, and overall performance for private cars and industrial vehicles. In the course of this, they rely on innovations across the entire value chain, from modules to comprehensive systems, significantly cutting down the time needed for market release. Using New Materials to drive innovation.
Surf wave sustainably constructed with circular carbon concrete
Innovation in New Materials doesn't solely thrive within industrial spheres. A striking demonstration of this is the construction of a surf wave in Augsburg, where a blend of 100% recycled concrete and cutting-edge carbon reinforcements has been employed.
What sets this project apart is the influential role undertaken by budding talents: students pursuing their bachelor’s degree in civil engineering supported the planning and design plus the formulation of a novel recipe for the recycled concrete. The result is a sustainable building material that surpasses its predecessors in durability, strength, and resistance to rust. Also worth mentioning is the significant improvement in the CO2 emissions associated with the production of these concrete elements.
In essence, this endeavor is a big leap for the construction sector. And serves as a prominent example of Bavaria's strides in pioneering advancements in New Materials.
Looking for network opportunities in the New Materials sector?
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