Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU

The Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU is an engine for innovations in the field of production engineering research and development. With around 550 employees at our sites in Chemnitz, Dresden and Zittau, we open up potential in manufacturing to remain competitive in the future. We focus our science and contract research on components, technologies and processes as well as on the associated complex machine systems – in other words, the entire factory.

As a lead institute for resource-efficient production, we develop efficiency technologies and intelligent production plants for the manufacture of body and powertrain components; in addition we optimize the associated forming and machining processes. Keys to our success are developing lightweight structures and technologies to process new materials as well as transferring their functions into assembly groups.

The progressive digitization is a central topic of the future of our time. To this end, we develop integrated solutions with tangible added value that will continue to strengthen and expand the competitive position of our partners in the future. The foundation for this is the »E³ Research Factory for Resource-Efficient Production«. Together with research and industry partners, we ensure that not only do our clients receive solutions for efficient technologies, but also factory-planning designs for flexible, resource-efficient production as well as innovative information and visualization technologies that integrate humans in the factory of the future to guarantee success.