Productive and environmentally friendly solutions
Technology
Technology
We engage in applied research and specialized production in chip-forming machining, laser, and additive technologies. We carry out both partial and comprehensive solutions for technologies that are often complex and demanding. Production focuses on precise and geometrically complex parts.
The main research topics include:
The research targets knowledge creation for machining high-tech materials such as titanium and nickel alloys, hardened and stainless steels, high-strength aluminum alloys, composite materials, and more. We develop methods for measuring quantities accompanying the machining process to build refined mathematical models of temperature and forces during machining. These models are applied to predict machining behavior. We also develop and apply original approaches—for example, modifying and correctly using advanced cutting materials (superhard materials, cemented carbides with new compositions), employing specific cooling conditions for the cutting process (high-pressure cooling and minimum-quantity lubrication), developing unique cutting tools, and introducing new machine-tool control methods (continuous, controlled variation of the tool’s rotational speed).
We develop new, effective approaches to increase productivity, accuracy, and surface quality of geometrically complex parts. The research focuses on optimized tool control and machine tuning to maintain the required operating conditions. To support this, we develop post-processors and machine simulation models for generating and verifying NC programs, with original functions that positively influence the machining process. We also develop in-house visualization and verification software to predict the behavior of the machine–tool–workpiece system and to ensure the required parameters are achieved.
Our research aims to increase efficiency and quality and to develop innovative applications of laser technologies. Laser use is directed toward material removal (e.g., machining hard and superhard cutting materials), surface treatment to achieve improved properties (e.g., roughness, wettability, friction, wear resistance), and, last but not least, welding and cladding of metals. A key focus is mapping the elementary phenomena accompanying the interaction between the laser beam and the material, followed by optimizing laser parameters for productive, high-quality processing.
More information about laser technologies.
RCMT has been developing its own additive and hybrid technology (combining cladding and machining) since 2013, and is likely the only workplace in the Czech Republic that develops and refines its own original technology for additive manufacturing of metal parts. The technology is described in an international patent (Global Patent Index – EP 3389907 A4). All specific research and development results are part of a non-public database of process parameters, which forms a proprietary software module of the HM CAM system under NX. A second theoretical pillar is our own model for path and power-control corrections of the cladding process. This excellent knowledge base enables the CTU Faculty of Mechanical Engineering to collaborate especially on the development of new WAAM technologies.
More information about the additive and hybrid technology.
