Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
The LinTR (Lernlabor für industrielle TeileReinigung) is an innovative training facility that provides practical and comprehensive training for specialists in industrial parts cleaning. The increasing importance of component cleanliness for production quality and the complex influences of cleaning processes on upstream and downstream processes made practice-oriented further training necessary.
Background
Component cleanliness is crucial for quality at the end of the production chain. A lot of theoretical knowledge about cleaning processes and quality assurance and the practical use of cleaning technology as well as measuring and testing equipment can be learned. However, there has not yet been a way to train the mastery of complex process chains in terms of parts cleanliness. The Fraunhofer-Business Area Cleaning, together with Fraunhofer FEP, IPA, IVV Dresden and IWS, developed LinTR to close this gap.
The learning lab
LinTR, sponsored by the Fraunhofer Academy, offers extended training opportunities through a modular, flexible concept and cooperating learning locations. State-of-the-art facilities are used, including the cleaning laboratory at the Fraunhofer FEP, the laser laboratory at the Fraunhofer IWS and live video links to the laboratories of the Fraunhofer IPA.
Training concept
A methodical-didactic concept subordinates all learning units to the process chain approach and enables practical training units.A special test component that combines industrial geometries and materials is used in various cleaning processes and test methods to familiarize participants with the limits and possibilities of the methods.
Practical exercises and simulations
Practical exercises include cleaning procedures and test methods. Important for didactically effective training is a production-relevant model contamination, which on the one hand reflects the working environment of the participants, but on the other hand also enables comparability of the methods, their limits and possibilities and simple detection. Simulation options complement the training and transform theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Process chain analysis
The central element of the LinTR is the consideration of the entire process chain. This makes it possible to experience and understand the various influences on component cleanliness in a practical way. The methodical subordination of all training options to this concept ideally combines theory and practice. Participants learn to recognize technical and logistical interrelationships at the interfaces of the process chain and to understand the importance of interdisciplinary communication for effective parts cleanliness.
Future prospects
LinTR will undergo further technical and methodological development until the project is completed in September 2024. It is intended to meet the requirements of manufacturing companies and offer precise training content for basic seminars and in-service qualifications. In future, participants will be trained in industrial cleaning processes, their quality assurance and mastering the complex influences of process chains on component cleanliness.
Funding information
The project presented is 50% funded by the Fraunhofer Academy as part of the Development Fund 2023.