This year, the Department of Foundry Technology at the University of Kassel held the course "Modern die casting in the context of Industry 4.0 and practical application" as a compact block course at our foundry technology center.

Under the direction of Dr. Norbert Erhard, the course combined theory and practice by integrating direct participation in our Frech W200 hot chamber die casting machine. The students were able to follow, analyze and experience the processes live. From parts removal to furnace cleaning and recharging, the students were able to carry out all activities independently.

Key features of the lecture:

• Industry 4.0 integration: networked control systems, real-time data visualization and energy data acquisition
• Direct practical relevance: From the teaching concept directly to the machine - without media discontinuity
• Block format intensity: condensed learning through concentrated attendance time at the technical center

We are keeping our fingers crossed for all students for the upcoming exam! The event has shown how valuable practice-integrated teaching is for engineering education.