Since its foundation in 1981, the association “Institut für Fertigungsforschung e. V.” (Institute for Manufacturing Research) has seen its task in promoting research in the field of manufacturing technology by providing additional funds. The IfF pursues exclusively charitable purposes. The funds of the association consist mainly of membership fees and donations.

The funds brought in are used to improve the institute's equipment, support research projects, promote young scientists and impart knowledge of manufacturing technology by organising conferences and seminars.

The PtU needs a large and committed circle of friends in order to make the orientation of its research activities attractive also in the future, to stimulate communication between PtU employees and production engineers, to establish or deepen existing contacts and to prepare the students for the manifold tasks in professional practice and to increase the qualification of the graduates by suitable measures.