The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology and SBI GmbH (german only), a leading high-tech company based in Ziersdorf, Lower Austria, are working on a feasibility study as part of the EDIH project “AI5 Production” (german only): the aim is to determine whether an energy-efficient welding inverter can be developed that sets new standards for resource efficiency, versatility and sustainability.
Partnership for innovation
SBI GmbH, a specialist in plasma welding technology and plasma-based additive manufacturing, is contributing its expertise in pioneering technologies such as multifunctional plasma welding systems and plasma metal deposition (PMD). Together with the AIT Center for Vision, Automation & Control (VAC) and Center for Energy, the focus is on the development of a welding inverter that covers a wider range of applications and at the same time works more efficiently than previous solutions by using modern semiconductors such as SiC and GaN as well as innovative circuit and control technology. The aim is to combine previously separate assemblies in the innovation. This requires new topologies to make the best possible use of the power electronic components, as well as an intelligent control system that provides the functionalities of the previously separate assemblies depending on the situation.
Sustainable technologies for a better future
The project has ambitious goals: to reduce energy consumption, achieve a more compact design and support local production that ensures compliance with European environmental and social standards. By using new semiconductor technologies and optimizing the circuits, energy consumption is reduced, waste heat is minimized and cooling requirements are thus also reduced. These innovations contribute to the global sustainability goals SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production) (german only).
Efficiency, versatility and local production
A welding inverter with a wide range of applications enables use in a wide variety of welding applications – from TIG and electrode welding to plasma joint welding. Local production not only strengthens Austria as a production location, but also ensures high environmental standards and the traceability of production conditions.
Pioneering infrastructure at AIT
The tests and validations are carried out in AIT's state-of-the-art laboratory environment, supported by a controller hardware-in-the-loop system (C-HIL). This infrastructure enables the practical implementation and further development of innovative control concepts.
Sustainable impact
The project shows how technological innovations not only make industrial processes more efficient and environmentally friendly, but also optimize energy use. The close collaboration between AIT and SBI makes an important contribution to the semiconductor sector's value network and further strengthens Austria's high-tech industry.
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