International Network - Significant Benefits

The strength of our network lies in the expertise and capabilities of its partners. These span the entire industrial ecosystem, bringing together manufacturers and users in alignment with our objectives.  

Supported by leading research institutions and guided by experienced project managers and coordinators, we are committed to developing innovative, future-ready solutions in key fields of innovation. 

What to Expect

  • Advancing sustainability as a strategic competitive advantage for companies
  • Harnessing synergies and shared expertise
  • Collaborative access to international markets through partnerships between German and Swiss companies
  • Developing a technological roadmap to extend the lifespan of tools and components
  • Initiating, evaluating, and implementing cooperative and individual projects, with contractual integration of suitable network partners
  • Assisting network partners in preparing R&D project proposals and funding applications, with continuous communication with project sponsors and funding agencies
  • Organizing and coordinating technical events, presentations, and trade fair appearances
  • Supporting, facilitating, and maintaining coordination processes between network and cooperation partners

GFE – Association for Production Engineering and Development Schmalkalden e.V.

The GFE – Society for Production Engineering and Development Schmalkalden e.V. is an industry-focused, non-profit research association offering comprehensive solutions related to tools and associated machining technologies.  

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The organization takes a holistic approach to the entire process, developing, optimizing, and implementing methods, products, and systems.

The service portfolio encompasses application-oriented preliminary research, applied and contract research, technology-focused consulting and services, cooperative projects, and prototype and small-batch production.

GFE’s Core Competencies Include:

  • Tool engineering and machining technology
  • Coating technology
  • Measurement technology and quality assurance
  • Simulation of machining processes
  • Integration of Industry 4.0-capable manufacturing processes

Key Research Areas Include:

  • Tools and tool components with integrated sensors and actuators
  • Tools for machining new materials
  • Structuring of macro and micro geometries of precision tool cutting edges
  • Coatings to improve friction and wear properties
  • Use of novel materials for tools and machine components      

 

The association’s members consist of medium-sized companies, industry associations, regional and municipal bodies, and individuals.  

The strong integration of application-oriented fundamental research with applied and contract research from industry and academia ensures that research remains closely aligned with market needs, allowing for rapid translation of results into practical applications.

GFE is a member of the Zuse Association, the Research and Technology Association of Thuringia, and the Association of Innovative Companies e.V. 

www.zuse-gemeinschaft.de www.ftvt.de www.viunet.de

Together with four other university and scientific institutions, it serves as a partner of the Thuringian Center for Mechanical Engineering, where coating technology also plays a central role.

Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST)

OST is the University of Applied Sciences serving the six Eastern Swiss cantons and the Principality of Liechtenstein. One of its key goals is to generate societal and economic impact through strong connections with target groups, a focus on knowledge transfer, and interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as by taking a “national leadership role in selected focus areas.” The emphasis is on innovative, marketable solutions developed through close cooperation between university research and industry.

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The Institute of Materials and Plastic Processing, specifically the Department of Manufacturing Technology Metal, prioritizes technology transfer for industrial applications as one of its main objectives. The technological core competencies essential for the network include:

  • Material selection in machining processes
  • Joining and structuring techniques (laser welding, laser structuring, friction stir welding)
  • Coating technologies
  • Simulation (FEM, Simulink)
  • Material analysis (microscopy, microstructure and failure analysis, SEM imaging)
  • Process and tooling technology
  • Material and component testing


In addition, the department head, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Rabiey, serves as the international coordinator. With his internationally oriented education (studies in Iran, Switzerland, the UK; PhD in Germany), he brings an ideal understanding of local contexts to the network. Furthermore, his technical and business expertise makes him a valued partner in implementing R&D projects in the industry.