Whether it’s CD packaging, containers or identification cards: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags (right) are increasingly finding their way into everyday life. They make it possible to label objects or goods and identify them automatically by radio frequency.

The appropriate scanner can read and process the data contained in the label. »Smart RFID labels« can be fixed to goods under production conditions of up to 100 degrees Celsius.

But at higher temperatures, as with laser fusion, RFID tags fall apart: since metal components are being manufactured out of stainless steel powder, using a laser at temperatures in excess of 1400 degrees Celsius. Such production conditions precluded the use of radio-based identification – until now.

This new IFAM process finally puts the intelligence into the metal component. Critical information in the radio tags, like the serial number or the manufacture date can be stored.  So, for example, companies now can make their top-grade replacement parts tamper-proof and resistant to fraud, explains project manager Claus Aumund-Kopp. If someone tries to remove the chip, they will wind up destroying it in the attempt.

And soon, it will be possible to do more than just reading the identification code. Conceivably, it might even be possible to store information during the period of usage. Experts also envision the potential of this process as it relates to sensors or actuators: With the aid of temperature or expansion sensors, it may be possible to record data on thermal or mechanical stresses on the components.

In addition, the new Fraunhofer Additive Manufacturing Alliance will present technologies and services along the entire value creation chain. This includes everything from additive manufacturing technologies and tools manufacturing through to tooling, repair and maintenance. Ten institutes have joined together under the aegis of the alliance.