Electroplating plants benefit from digitalization: energy and resources can be used more efficiently, production processes can be optimized and product quality can be improved. Fraunhofer IPA will be showcasing examples of this at the SurfaceTechnology Germany trade fair from June 4 to 6, 2024.
Broad database as a prerequisite
A research team led by Peter Schwanzer at Fraunhofer IPA has investigated how existing production systems and processes can be subsequently digitalized. The result is the so-called "learning electroplating". It serves as a development platform and demonstrator to make better use of the potential of digitalization and to develop and test new approaches. At the trade fair, Fraunhofer IPA researchers will show, for example, how digitalization can be used to identify and implement energy efficiency measures or how the product carbon footprint can be determined and reduced.
Readiness check digitalization service
The Fraunhofer IPA's Electroplating Technology department also offers companies a "Digitalization Readiness Check". The researchers check which data is required, for example, to optimize production, to create a carbon footprint or to increase energy efficiency, which data is already available and how the missing data can be recorded. Quick checks are now also possible, in which project ideas are checked for their feasibility.
Evaluation using machine learning methods
Once the data source is available, it can be analyzed using machine learning methods. For example, researchers Stefan Kölle and Peter Schwanzer have succeeded in using artificial intelligence to predict how the electrolyte will have changed during galvanizing after a few hours of use. This kind of prediction should make it possible to reduce manual testing in future. Instead of expensive tests, simulations could in future show how coatings behave.
Chromium(III) as an alternative to chromium(VI)
However, as far as the analysis of alternatives in current applications for authorization under the REACh Regulation is concerned, simulations do not yet provide accurate forecasts. In recent years, the team from the Electroplating Department has largely settled on chromium(III) as the most promising alternative to chromium(VI). At SurfaceTechnology Germany, they will be demonstrating the potential offered by hard chrome plating from trivalent electrolytes, but also the current limitations.
Iridium coating for electrolysers
The research team will also be showcasing electrochemically produced iridium coatings for future use in electrolysers, which are necessary for the production of hydrogen. As iridium is one of the rarest elements with an annual production volume of only a few tons, scientists are looking for ways to reduce the demand for iridium to a minimum. Initial results are now available.
Lecture on digitalization and energy efficiency
On 4 June at 3 p.m., Peter Schwanzer will talk about "Digitalized electroplating technology and data usage" in the specialist forum. One day later, Stefan Kölle will present his research results in his lecture "On the way to climate neutrality - energy-efficient electroplating".
Stuttgart Surface Technology Prize
Once again this year, Fraunhofer IPA will be awarding the Stuttgart Surface Technology Prize DIE OBERFLÄCHE at SurfaceTechnology. Since 2012, this award has honored innovative applications and technologies within all disciplines of surface technology. The jury will nominate the best five entries from all submissions and select the three winners on June 4 from 1 p.m. in the expert forum.
Hall 1 Stand H16
All innovations and information about SurfaceTechnology 2024 can be found in our trade fair special