Thesis field of additive manufacturing – focus sustainability Liebherr

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Topic of the work:
Conception and implementation of a framework for the sustainability assessment of the PBF-LB/M process chain at Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH

Objective:
The aim of this thesis is to develop a scientifically sound assessment framework for the quantitative sustainability analysis of the process chain of powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) of metals at Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH. The work combines established life cycle assessment (LCA) methods with real-world operating and consumption data to enable a robust evaluation of the climate and resource-related impacts of the process chain.

In addition to determining the status quo, the framework should enable the systematic evaluation of potential optimizations in the process chain with regard to their climate impact (especially CO₂ emissions) and identify corresponding improvement potentials.

The following objectives are planned within the scope of this work:

• Systematic analysis of the current state of research and development on the sustainability assessment of additive manufacturing processes, with a focus on PBF-LB/M technologies.
• Identification, selection and critical evaluation of relevant LCA methods, norms and industry-wide established sustainability standards.
• Data collection and processing of real process and consumption data along the PBF-LB/M process chain at Liebherr-Aerospace.
• Conception of a modular assessment framework for quantifying climate impacts (especially in kg CO₂ equivalents), taking into account material, energy and process parameters.
• Application of the framework to evaluate the current state as well as simulated process variants with optimized parameters or process routes.
• Critical reflection on the results regarding their significance, industrial scalability and potential contributions to the decarbonization of additive manufacturing.

Expected insights:
This work aims to provide a robust basis for decision-making regarding sustainability-oriented process optimization in additive manufacturing by taking a holistic view of the process chain. The developed framework is intended to serve as a practical tool for making ecological impacts transparent both qualitatively and quantitatively, and for supporting the implementation of effective emission reduction strategies in industrial practice.

This work makes it possible to carry out practical sustainability assessments in additive manufacturing and to provide sound decision-making bases for the industrial implementation of improvement measures.

• Enrolled students from the degree programs Sustainability Management, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering or comparable fields
• Confident use of MS Office
• Knowledge of LCA is an advantage

Ready to make a difference? As an innovative family business, we know that your ideas are our future – that’s why we foster your talent sustainably and give you responsibility early on. At Liebherr, you have the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of technology and actively shape it. You can expect exciting projects, a positive work environment where teamwork is highly valued, and a reliable partner at your side.

Have we sparked your interest? Then we look forward to receiving your online application. If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Tronsberg.