Research | More Economical Rail Transportation with the AddGleis Project - Photon
Photon AG is working with project partners to develop an automated process chain for the production of topology-optimized structures for use in rail transport in the interests of energy efficiency.
As part of the AddGleis project, Photon AG is working alongside FSK Maschinenbau, the Berlin University of Applied Sciences (BHT) and TU Berlin on new solutions for rail transport. The focus is on combining various additive manufacturing processes with the use of topology-optimized stiffening structures that save weight while maintaining stability.
It all comes down to these additive manufacturing techniques
AddGleis relies on three processes that offer geometric flexibility, shorten process chains and are therefore particularly suitable for technological lightweight construction: In addition to plastic FDM printing (3D printing), which enables precise lightweight structures through layer-by-layer material application and flexible moulds, arc spraying is also used; the WAS process (wire arc spraying) is used for a metallic intermediate layer and is a versatile and efficient coating technique. The third technique used by AddGleis is cold spray, which relies on cold forming without heat, minimising material changes and creating robust, lightweight components at the same time.
Ensuring continuous improvements with innovations
To achieve the goal of a fully automated process chain, the project partners are integrating AI-supported systems to monitor and optimize process results. This innovation not only ensures more efficient production but also marks a significant step towards industrially applicable processes that sustainably reduce energy consumption in passenger and freight transport.
With AddGleis, Photon AG is setting a crucial milestone in the development of energy-efficient technologies for sustainable mobility.
The project is co-financed by the state of Berlin via the Pro FIT program with funds from the European Regional Development Fund 2021 – 2027.
