German steelmaker ThyssenKrupp's Essen-based subsidiary ThyssenKrupp System Engineering GmbH and German CarTec Group's Schwalbach-based tool and machine manufacturing subsidiary BRAUN CarTec GmbH have formed a joint venture to jointly develop and market the technology of ‘hot forming' for automotive body construction.
According to a ThyssenKrupp statement, the joint venture company HFS Hotforming Solutions will combine in a unique way Braun CarTec's cutting-edge know-how in hot forming and ThyssenKrupp Engineering's expert knowledge in the global system business of plant construction and toolmaking. In combination with ThyssenKrupp System Engineering's global sales network, both joint venture partners will be able to cover the overall process chain in hot forming.
Hot forming is one of the key technologies for weight reduction in body shell construction through reducing necessary input of material in comparison to cold forming solutions. It also contributes to emission reduction, one of the foremost aims of the automotive industry.