32nd IKV Colloquium, The Five Cutting-Edge Topics
IKV has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and driven progress in the dynamic field of plastics.
Set against Aachen’s historic charm and modern innovation, the IKV Colloquium of 2024 surfaced as a main event, poised to delve into the forefront of polymer science and engineering. With a rich legacy spanning over six decades, IKV continuously pushes the boundaries of knowledge, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and drives progress in the dynamic field of plastics. Moreover, Plastics Engineering serves as the exclusive English-language press representative to provide on-site coverage of this event.
You can also read: ANTEC 2024
AI and Digitalization
In 2023, the inauguration of the Plastics Innovation Center 4.0 (PIC 4.0) marked the creation of a state-of-the-art research and development facility by IKV. Positioned at the forefront of technological advancement, this center tailors innovative digitalization strategies in plastics, facilitating enhanced research and development.
The initiative undertaken by IKV within the DFG-funded Excellence Cluster ‘Internet of Production’ closely intertwine with the Plastics Innovation Center 4.0. This consortium, comprising over 35 participating institutes at RWTH, conducts interdisciplinary research into the digitalization of production processes. One notable success case is the Start-up project Osphim, an initiative from IKV focused on developing AI-based assistance systems for injection molding. Another good example is the Innovation Lab KIOptiPack which focuses on standardizing material qualities for packaging with recyclates.
The sessions that involve the topics of Digitalization and AI are the number 2, 5, and 10.
To read more: osphim.com – KI in der Spritzgießfertigung
Lightweight Construction – T³ Hub
IKV has pioneered an optimization methodology for the load-case-appropriate redesign of injection-molded components, incorporating local tape inserts. Concurrently, within the Tape Technology Transfer Hub (T³-Hub) research project, IKV and five other consortium partners are investigating the transfer of tape technology for conventional injection molded components to large-scale production. Additionally, alongside practical implementation and investigation, a comprehensive data chain is being established within the consortium, while the process is being mapped on a simulative level.
The redesign aimed to increase the bending stiffness by 50%, thereby reducing the distortion. Moreover, Sessions 1 and 14 will provide elucidation, complemented by live demonstrations at the Fiber Reinforced Plastics Technical Center.
To read more: Leichtbau – Effizienter Einsatz von UD-Tapes in Spritzgießbauteilen (ikv-aachen.de)
Medical & Hybrid Technology
In the collaboration project MeKuMed, an innovative manufacturing process is currently under development to streamline the production chain for a state-of-the-art hybrid crimped cap with micro-mold fitting. c Additionally, it incorporates a sophisticated deep-drawing and over-back-injection technique.
It represents a harmonious fusion of cutting-edge technologies, poised to redefine the landscape of modern manufacturing. Moreover, Session 7 of the colloquium will specifically spotlight medical technology and hybrid technology.
Sustainability and Circular Economy
Collaborating with numerous stakeholders, IKV diligently focuses on optimizing the entire value chain of plastic recyclates holistically. Simultaneously, the consistent integration of recyclates into plastic products holds immense potential for reducing emissions and preventing plastic pollution in aquatic environments.
Alltough these promising benefits and achieving sustainable utilization of resources, the circular economy faces various challenges. These include the limited availability of high purity recyclate grades, variability in their properties, limited acceptance of recycled plastics, and the lack of economic viability. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for unlocking the full environmental and economic potential of plastic recycling initiatives.
The colloquium includes session 2 on AI-driven PCR utilization. Also, session 8 on plasma-based barrier coating. Finally, session 13 on PCR processing challenges.
Hydrogen and the importance of plastics
The recently founded IKV’s Hydrogen Business Forum, serves as a pivotal platform, bridging the fields of hydrogen and plastics, thus seamlessly uniting expertise and know-how.
The DAVID (Digital Design Methods for Inline Monitored Pressure Vessels) research project was launched in the summer of 2023. The consortium project, involving ten partners from industry and research, targets 21% CO2-eq savings per pressure container. This will be achieved through enhanced resource efficiency and production substitution. New digital design methods and inline quality assurance measures will be implemented, along with adapted material compositions and processing technologies.
To read more: IKV Colloquium Agenda