# SKZ technical and educational capacity expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/skz-technical-and-educational-capacity-expansion
> Updated: 2026-09-03T08:02:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

The Kunststoff-Zentrum (SKZ) in Würzburg, Germany, has expanded its technical and educational capacities through new equipment acquisitions and research initiatives.

In August 2026, Haitian International Germany GmbH donated a Zhafir Zeres 1200V/300/B36mm injection-molding machine to the center. This fully electric machine is intended for practical training and certification programs, serving approximately 1,000 participants annually in courses ranging from basic training to tool-designer qualifications. Niels Herz of Haitian International stated the donation “strengthens the qualification of skilled workers and supports the competitiveness of the German plastics industry.”

Additionally, the SKZ expanded its research and development capabilities via a loan of an S2KRC kneader system from the Japanese manufacturer Kurimoto Ltd. Handed over in June 2026, the kneader allows for the continuous processing of various materials, including thermoplastics, thermosets, and battery masses. This partnership enables SKZ to support industrial research cooperations while allowing Kurimoto to explore the potential of its technology within the European market.

Furthering its research profile, the SKZ is advancing the TherMI project, which focuses on active thermographic testing techniques. On September 17, 2026, the center will host a demonstration day in Würzburg-Lengfeld to showcase automated, non-destructive, and contact-free inline testing technology. This system uses infrared radiation and cameras to detect surface streaks and internal inhomogeneities in injection-molded parts. Researcher Daniel Seewald noted the event allows companies to “experience the technology firsthand and discuss specific production requirements” to evaluate the method’s potential.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-03: SKZ to demonstrate thermographic testing for injection molding

The SKZ research project TherMI will host a demonstration day in Würzburg-Lengfeld to showcase automated, non-destructive thermographic testing for injection-molded plastic parts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/skz-to-demonstrate-thermographic-testing-for-injection-molding

### 2026-08-24: SKZ expands technical capabilities with Kurimoto kneader loan

The German plastics center SKZ has received an S2KRC kneader system from Japan's Kurimoto Ltd. to enhance its research in compounding, extrusion, and material processing.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/skz-expands-technical-capabilities-with-kurimoto-kneader-loan

### 2026-08-07: Haitian International equips German SKZ with new training injection‑molding machine

Haitian International Germany donated a modern injection‑molding machine to SKZ in Würzburg, boosting vocational training for about 1,000 participants and supporting the German plastics industry's workforce.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/haitian-international-equips-german-skz-with-new-training-injectionmolding-machine

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Cite as: SKZ technical and educational capacity expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/skz-technical-and-educational-capacity-expansion