The LZH in Hanover demonstrates it time and time again: Laser-based processes create solutions that can make previous methods look downright old-fashioned. For example, in order to tackle a very specific form of environmental pollution in a completely new way, LZH scientists and partners developed a process to automatically clean ship hulls underwater using lasers. This is because the marine growth of mussels and algae on ship hulls, known as biofouling, increases the flow resistance of ships - and therefore also their fuel consumption and emissions. One of the aims of the new process is to significantly reduce the time ships spend in dock.

Laser processing head for coaxial build-up welding

Laser-based processes also enable efficient and sustainable production in other cases. Additive manufacturing processes, for example, can save material and, depending on the application, also energy in many places. The LZH's latest laser processing head for coaxial deposition welding clearly demonstrates how additive manufacturing can supplement or replace conventional processes, whether in the production of components, their modification or their repair. For example, highly stressed components can be provided with a protective coating using wire cladding.

Micro material processing with the laser

Surface properties can be specifically modified with the laser for a wide range of applications. One example is skis with an innovative microstructure: it reduces friction and ensures higher speeds when skiing, even without the fluorine-containing ski wax that is now banned in professional sport. LZH scientists have developed a method for processing the curved ski surfaces with the help of a laser.

LZH partner of the Technology & Business Cooperation Days

The LZH is also a partner and co-organizer of the Technology & Business Cooperation Days of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), which will take place as part of HANNOVER MESSE 2024. At the contact exchange, companies, start-ups and research institutions can come into contact with each other, exchange ideas and thus find partners for business, technology or research cooperation.