Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT
Economically efficient production of illumination optics made of glass
The demand for complex and, at the same time affordable glass optics is growing in the lighting technology, automotive manufacturing and sensor systems sectors. However, the trend towards increasingly complex geometries and ever higher levels of precision accompanied by falling market prices is presenting companies with a range of challenges.
The Technology
Non-isothermal glass molding is a forming manufacturing process which enables glass parts to be produced in one single process step. In contrast to conventional grinding and polishing processes, the non-isothermal glass molding process is capable of producing complex glass optics and even micro-structured surfaces economically. The short process times coupled with the absence of any need for finishing operations mean that the process is ideally suited to mass production. This ensures that the advantages of glass as a material can be exploited for the application you have in mind.
Our Services
- Developing glass molding processes over the entire process chain, from simulation through mold making and culminating in sophisticated glass optics.
- Investigating technical feasibility and the economic potential of glass molding for your glass products.
- Analyzing, implementing and optimizing glass molding processes at your premises.