Our Partners
Jožef Stefan Institute
Cooridnator
The Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) is Slovenia's leading research institution, specializing in natural sciences, life sciences, and engineering. Established in 1949, JSI conducts cutting-edge research in physics, chemistry, material science, biochemistry, electronics, robotics, and computer science. The institute collaborates with local and international partners, contributing to advancements in science and technology and fostering a knowledge-based society. With vast experience in permanent magnets based on Rare-Earth and transition metals, JSI is fully equipped for the preparation and characterization of magnetic materials. In this project, JSI will manage 3D printing with FFF, characterize 3D printed parts, assist with the classification system, and conduct microstructural and magnetic analyses.
RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden)
RISE is a leading Swedish research organization focused on driving innovation in industry, society, and the environment. With expertise in magnetism, magnetic materials, and magnetic sensor systems, they are currently developing magnetic scanning systems to detect rare earth NdFeB magnets in waste materials. In this project, RISE's role involves building efficient sensor systems to monitor 3D printing filament quality and validate the magnetic field pattern around 3D printed magnets, offering valuable insights into potential deviations in the magnet production process. Through collaboration with academia, businesses, and public institutions, RISE is dedicated to creating a sustainable, competitive, and innovative future for Sweden and the world.
Valeo Electrical System
Valeo is a renowned French multinational automotive supplier specializing in cutting-edge components and systems for modern vehicles. Their innovative products contribute to improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced vehicle performance, promoting sustainable transportation. As a major electrical machine manufacturer for passenger cars and small mobility objects, Valeo's contribution will revolve around developing electrical machines optimized for recyclability, utilizing recycled rare earth magnets. The project aims to evaluate the carbon footprint benefits of this design and assess the Life Cycle Cost of the magnets. Valeo's involvement is crucial to advancing sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions in the automotive industry. As the end-user in the project, Valeo (Rotormagnets) will conduct final testing and ensure market suitability.
Kolektor KFH d.o.o:
Business Owner
Kolektor KFH d.o.o. is a global technology company based in Slovenia, established in 1963. It specializes in various sectors, including automotive, industrial, energy, and home appliances. Kolektor designs, develops, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of components and systems, including magnetic components, commutators, hybrid/electric mobility solutions, energy infrastructure solutions, home appliance components, and engineering services. With strong research and development capabilities, advanced manufacturing facilities, and a global sales network, Kolektor has earned a position of industry leadership. In this project, Kolektor KFH d.o.o. will be responsible for expanding the existing product portfolio and manufacturing a polymer-based compound and filament suitable for the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing device.
University of Ljubljana
The University of Ljubljana is Slovenia's oldest and largest educational institution, dedicated to research, innovation, and excellence. The Center for Experimental Mechanics (CEM), an independent laboratory within the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, is actively participating in this project. CEM's expertise lies in the study of polymers, composites, polymer melts, suspensions, and related applications. In this project, CEM collaborates with the teams from Jožef Stefan Institute and Kolektor, focusing on filament manufacturing in WP3. They will assess the rheological and mechanical properties of different binders, aiming to achieve maximum packing efficiency by experimenting with various packing fractions of magnetic powder. They will explore filament coating techniques to enhance flowability during 3D printing.
Pforzheim University
Pforzheim University is a distinguished higher education institution located in Pforzheim, Germany. Established in 1992, it offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like design, business, and engineering, with a strong emphasis on practical learning, interdisciplinary and international collaboration. Pforzheim University (HSPF) has a major research focus on the recycling of RE PMs and its research facilities are perfectly equipped for characterization, recycling, and remanufacturing of scrap magnets and the investigation of different recycled grades with staff having 30+ years of experience in NdFeB-type materials. In this project, HSPF will develop anisotropic NdFeB powders suitable for magnetic field AM from EOL magnets using the HPMS process (Hydrogen Processing of Magnetic Scrap).