Our research associate, Jonas Launhardt , completed an exciting three-month research stay at the prestigious Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China this summer. He worked under the supervision of our previous visiting professor and ICFG research partner, Prof. Hu, in the field of Bulk Metal Forming.

At the beginning of his stay, he attended the “8^th National Symposium on Precision Forging” in Jiangsu, where he gained valuable insights into the latest developments in precision forging in China. During his time at the university, Mr. Launhardt took on various sub-projects in the field of a new complexity index for the geometry of formed parts and the investigation of tribology in multi-stage forming processes as part of the International Cold Forging Group (ICFG). In addition to his scientific work, there was the opportunity to visit eight leading companies in the Chinese forging industry – including, for example, the Chinese site of the Hirschvogel Group, Jiangsu Pacific Precision Forging Co., Ltd. und Longcheng Precision Forging Co., Ltd. He was able to gain valuable insights into the production processes and challenges of the forging industry in China. By working with Chinese scientists and with local companies, Mr. Launhardt was able to gain not only technical knowledge but also cultural insights. Discussions with colleagues and industry partners in China opened up exciting perspectives and fostered a better understanding of each other. The final highlight of his stay was his participation in the 57^th Plenary Meeting of the ICFG in Busan, South Korea.

We would like to thank Prof. Hu for his initiative and hospitality and look forward to further intensive international cooperation with him and our partners in the ICFG.