International relations have always been of great importance to PtU. To expand its contacts, PtU participated in the North American Manufacturing Research Conference (NAMRC) at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and visited Columbia University in New York City.

NAMRC is one of the most prestigious research conferences for manufacturing technology in the USA. PtU researcher Lukas Kluy moderated the “Manufacturing Processes” track and presented the latest findings on the design of thermomechanical processes. “The spirit of transatlantic learning and innovation was at the forefront,” Kluy emphasized. “We focused on understanding the specific advantages and disadvantages of various manufacturing processes and how they can be profitably combined. US and EU institutes sat together with government representatives and associations for an open discussion.”

At Columbia University in New York City, Kluy visited the Zuckerman Institute, where the behavior of the human brain is studied. “We discussed how the blood-brain barrier works, how metals can overcome it, and what effects this has on the brain. Holding a human brain in my own hand was an extraordinary experience,” Kluy said. The insights gained are being transferred to the PtU research project DIAMOND, which is investigating the production of a nanostructured hip implant designed to minimize the risk of critical metal abrasion in the bloodstream. In this way, manufacturing technology has a direct impact on the health and quality of life for all of us.

The fact is: Such transatlantic networks and contacts are the key to shaping the future of manufacturing technology.