During the festive evening event of the 43rd EFB Sheet Metal Working Colloquium, the European Research Association for Sheet Metal Working (EFB) presented the EFB Excellence Awards 2025 to five outstanding young scientists. The award ceremony, conducted by the EFB Executive Committee, recognized research work that is equally impressive in terms of scientific depth and high industrial benefit.
The EFB Excellence Awards are presented annually to young researchers whose work has been produced within the framework of Industrial Collective Research (IGF). They are characterized by innovative approaches, practical feasibility and their contribution to the technological advancement of sheet metal processing. The award-winning projects impressively demonstrate how research can provide impetus for industrial application – in a targeted, efficient and future-oriented manner.
The 2025 award winners at a glance:
– M. Sc. Pascal Heinzelmann, Institute of Forming Technology (IFU), University of Stuttgart
developed “Production of crash-optimized sheet metal components by embossing”, a process for the local structural strengthening of sheet metal components by embossing. The aim is the targeted improvement of crash behavior – without additional production steps. His methodologically sound work provides valuable impetus for the development of energy-efficient and safe vehicle structures.
– M. Sc. Jan Wippermann, LWF, University of Paderborn & Dipl.-Ing. Franziska Schützelt, Fraunhofer IWU Dresden, jointly developed “Process-flexible semi-tubular punch riveting clinching tools for mechanical joining”, a process-flexible tool that enables both clinching and semi-tubular punch riveting in a single system. The innovative solution reduces changeover times, increases process reliability and supports the adaptability of modern production lines.
– M. Sc. Jonas Moske, Institute of Production Engineering and Forming Machines (PtU), TU Darmstadt & M. Sc. Hasan Kutlu, Fraunhofer IGD Darmstadt, convinced the jury with “Development of a method for the detection of wear conditions in multi-stage sheet metal forming processes using in-situ recorded process variables”, a system for the digital detection of tool wear in multi-stage forming processes. Their solution enables predictive maintenance based on real-time data – a pioneering step towards intelligent process monitoring in forming technology.
Science meets practice – the future is created through exchange
The award ceremony took place in the festive setting of the colloquium’s evening event, which is traditionally dedicated to networking and personal exchange. In this special atmosphere, the EFB Executive Committee emphasized the strategic importance of young scientists for the future viability of the industry.
“The work awarded today is exemplary of what joint industrial research can achieve,” said EFB President Dr. Jens Bunte in his tribute. “They combine scientific excellence with practical relevance – and show how innovation becomes visible in concrete solutions.”
The EFB has been committed to the targeted promotion of young talent for many years. With the Excellence Awards, it not only recognizes special achievements, but also the potential that lies in interdisciplinary, practice-oriented research. The award-winning projects make a concrete contribution to the future of key industrial technologies and underline the role of young researchers as drivers of innovation.
Impetus for the future of sheet metal processing
In the context of the top-class EFB colloquium, it became clear how crucial the dialog between research and industry is for technological development. The award-winning projects fit seamlessly into the guidelines of the event: Innovation, efficiency and sustainability in sheet metal processing.
The award winners were celebrated with great recognition and much applause from the specialist public. Their commitment, creativity and scientific precision make them important shapers of a sustainable industrial future.
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