Final thesis Investigation of laser beam welding in the field of electrolyser cells

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology LLT at RWTH Aachen University, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology Aachen ILT, a leading centre for contract research and development in the field of laser technology, is offering the opportunity to write a thesis in the field of “Joining of metals” on the subject of “Investigation of laser beam welding in the field of electrolyser cells”.

The number of fuel cell electric vehicles registered worldwide will increase tenfold by 2030, resulting in an enormous increase in demand for hydrogen.  The electrolyser cell is a power-to-gas technology and offers the possibility of converting natural energy into hydrogen. 

An important manufacturing step of an electrolyser cell is the welding of bipolar plates and measuring material. Laser beam welding is a promising process for the production of welded joints. The quality of the weld seam is crucial for efficient production and must be monitored.

What you will do

• Process development for welding bipolar plates and nickel mesh
• Investigation of the test setup and variation of the wavelength
• Possibility of carrying out in-situ and SEM analyses

What you bring to the table

• You are studying mechanical engineering, physics or a related subject area 
• You are looking for varied and diverse scientific work 
• You are interested in technical problems and enjoy practical, experimental and analytical work 
• You are interested in laser technology and the further development of manufacturing processes for electromobility and hydrogen technology 
• Previous knowledge in the field of laser technology is desirable, but not essential

What you can expect

• Practice-orientated thesis in an innovative working environment
• A creative, diverse, multidisciplinary team with in-depth knowledge 
• Tasks with responsibility and room for manoeuvre
• Close collaboration between science and industry
• First-class equipment in the laboratories and offices
• Good transport links (bus connections, free multi-storey car park)
• Flexible working hours for a better work-study balance

The position is limited to the end of the thesis. 

We value and promote the diversity of our employees’ skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. 

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Questions about this position will be answered by

Mrs. Zhiheng Ye

Phone +49 241/8906-8382

[email protected]

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT 

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de  

Requisition Number: 71764                Application Deadline: 04/30/2024