Fraunhofer IGP presents automated maritime forming technology at EuroBLECH

Fraunhofer IGP is presenting automated sheet metal forming technologies at the 28th EuroBLECH international trade fair in Hannover. The researchers are showcasing a model of a round bending machine designed for the maritime industry.

The technology focuses on automating the forming of large sheets used in the production of monopiles for wind energy foundations, wind turbine towers, and three-dimensional shapes for shipbuilding. Currently, these processes often rely on manual control by experienced operators.

To address this, Fraunhofer IGP has developed an AI-based process control model. This system calculates machine settings to support operators, aiming to improve economic efficiency, reproducibility, and quality in manufacturing components such as large pipes with diameters up to 12 meters and thicknesses up to 120 mm.