Fraunhofer ILT and Etxetar Expand Industrial Applications for LMD and EHLA

Fraunhofer ILT and the Spanish engineering and machine tool specialist Etxetar have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the industrial use of Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) and Extreme High-Speed Laser Material Deposition (EHLA). By combining expertise in process development, industrial engineering and application know-how, the partners aim to unlock new opportunities for laser-based manufacturing technologies across a range of industries.

The collaboration focuses on applications where high-value components require repair, wear-resistant coatings or lifetime extension. By adapting proven laser deposition processes to new industrial requirements, the partners seek to accelerate the adoption of LMD and EHLA in sectors including aerospace, rail, mechanical engineering and other high-tech industries.

Regulation and New Applications Drive Industrial Demand

One of the key drivers for the growing adoption of EHLA is the introduction of the European Euro 7 regulation, which extends its scope beyond exhaust emissions to include non-exhaust particulate emissions such as brake wear. This is increasing demand for efficient, scalable coating technologies capable of improving the durability of brake discs and other wear-intensive components. EHLA is considered a promising solution for applying high-quality protective coatings in an industrial environment.

Beyond coating applications, the partnership also targets the repair of high-value components. Turbine blades, blisks, railway axles and gear components are among the parts that can benefit from precise, localized material deposition, allowing worn or damaged areas to be restored instead of replacing entire components. This approach reduces material consumption, lowers costs and extends component service life.

AI Supports More Robust and Scalable Manufacturing Processes

Another focus of the collaboration is the digitalization of laser deposition processes. Fraunhofer ILT is developing intelligent process control solutions that capture component geometries during coating, detect deviations from target contours and automatically adjust process parameters such as feed rate in real time. By continuously analyzing production data, artificial intelligence enables further optimization of the process, improving repeatability and productivity even for complex geometries.

By combining Fraunhofer ILT's expertise in laser processes and digital manufacturing with Etxetar's experience in industrial machinery, production systems and additive manufacturing solutions, the partners aim to accelerate the industrialization of LMD and EHLA technologies. The collaboration is expected to open new market opportunities while providing manufacturers with efficient and sustainable solutions for coating, repair and advanced production.