At IFW Dresden, we develop and process metallic materials under ultrapure conditions using state-of-the-art melting and casting systems. Our infrastructure enables both induction and arc melting under inert gas or high vacuum, ensuring minimal contamination even for highly reactive materials. By achieving exceptionally high cooling rates during casting, we realize fine-grained and metastable microstructures that cannot be produced through conventional processes. The systems are suitable for a wide range of metals and alloys, including high-temperature and reactive systems up to 2 200 °C. From alloy design to casting and additive manufacturing feedstock, we provide complete support for material development, prototyping, and small-series production.
Your Benefits
- Ultra-pure melting environments with precise control of process atmosphere and temperature
- High cooling rates for microstructural refinement and unique material properties
- Processing of reactive and high-temperature alloys up to 2 200 °C
- Scalable infrastructure for both laboratory and pilot-scale alloy production
- Integrated process chain from alloy idea to functional component
Methods & Equipment
- Induction and arc melting furnaces under inert gas and high vacuum (up to 2 200 °C)
- Cold crucible and levitation melting systems for contamination-free processing
- High-rate solidification and casting technologies for rapid cooling and fine microstructure control
- Protective gas and vacuum handling systems for reactive alloy processing
- Integrated powder production and alloy development workflow for additive manufacturing and advanced material applications
Fields of Application
- Development and optimization of new metallic alloys and intermetallic compounds
- Production of high-purity master alloys and precursors for additive manufacturing
- Rapid solidification research and microstructure design
- Fabrication of reactive and high-temperature materials for aerospace and energy technologies
- Prototype and small-series casting for functional testing and component development
