The interface between academic research and industrial application is often where true innovation happens. The Institute of Forming Technology and Lightweight Construction (IUL) at TU Dortmund and the testing machine manufacturer ZwickRoell are promoting exactly this exchange with a special event.
On March 3, 2026, the partners invite you to the ‘Joint Metal Day’ in the IUL experimental hall. Professionals, engineers, and scientists will have the opportunity to dive deep into current trends in materials testing. From AI-supported hardness testing to complex hot tensile tests, the agenda provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the art.
A meeting point for experts from industry and research
The day begins at 9:30 AM with registration and offers an immediate opportunity for initial networking. The event will be officially opened at 10:30 AM by Ralf Ständer from ZwickRoell GmbH & Co. KG. He will be accompanied by representatives of the IUL as well as the partners Latzke Hardness Testing and ZwickRoell Fürstenfeld.
The goal of the event is clearly defined: it is not just about theoretical treatises, but about applicable solutions for the challenges of modern metal processing. The combination of lectures and practical insights into the institute’s work makes this day particularly valuable for everyone active in quality assurance, research, or development.
Morning Program: Focus on Standards and Temperature
After the welcome, the technical program starts directly with a demanding topic. Dr. Heinrich Traphöner from TU Dortmund will speak at 10:40 AM on ‘Innovative Material Characterization at Elevated Temperatures’. Especially in the automotive and aerospace industries, where materials must withstand extreme loads, this knowledge is indispensable.
Following this, Lukas Unger (ZwickRoell Fürstenfeld) will address a topic that is part of everyday life for many testing laboratories but often raises questions: strain-controlled tensile tests according to DIN EN ISO 6892-2. His lecture at 11:15 AM promises clarity on standard-compliant testing procedures and their precise implementation.
Afternoon: AI, Automation, and Complex Processes
After the lunch break, which offers space for technical exchange, the program continues with two parallel focus areas.
1. Press Hardening and Process Optimization
Dr. Heinrich Traphöner returns to the podium at 1:00 PM to shed light on the topic of ‘Variable Press Hardening in Progressive Dies’. This process is essential for the production of high-strength components with complex geometries and plays a key role in modern lightweight construction.
2. The Role of Artificial Intelligence
At the same time, Michael Grandits from EMCO-TEST Prüfmaschinen GmbH takes a look at the digital future of hardness testing. He presents the new hardness testing software ecos™ III, which uses AI technology to make testing processes more efficient and less error-prone. He also discusses special testing systems and automation solutions – a decisive factor for laboratories with high testing volumes.
Experience Practice Firsthand: The Tour
A highlight of the day takes place starting at 2:30 PM. After a coffee break, the doors open for open discussions and the presentation of exhibits. At the same time, participants have the opportunity to take part in tours of the IUL experimental hall.
Here, research becomes tangible. The tour of the facilities and experimental setups allows visitors to see the theoretical content from the morning in practical application. Direct conversation at the machines often promotes understanding and idea generation better than any presentation.
Join us
The Joint Metal Day is expected to end around 3:30 PM. Take advantage of this compact event to update your knowledge of materials testing, make new contacts, and experience the synergies between TU Dortmund and leading industrial companies live.
