The harder and more brittle a metal or alloy, the more difficult, expensive and time consuming it is to manufacture complex components using conventional methods. Such processes also expose these materials to extreme mechanical and thermal stresses which can result in damage such as gouges, scratches or hairline fractures in the work piece. In addition, strict limits are imposed on the shape of these components. The Franco-German project "Initiative Precise" has therefore developed an innovative "electrochemical erosion" process in collaboration with research institutes, machine manufacturers and companies in the border region. The "Initiative Precise" engineers are presenting their expertise at the Saarland research stand at HANNOVER MESSE from 7 to 11 April 2014.

Electrochemical erosion enables the cost-effective mass production of very complex components, such as for jet aircraft or vehicle engines. Using this process, engineers produce customized components fitted precisely to a thousandth of a millimeter – in one piece, using hard, heavy-duty metals or alloys and entirely without stress or other extreme impacts on the material. With this process, pieces can be shaped with absolute freedom, and even the most complicated geometries created from the hardest metals.

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