FOCUS ON STAMPING
The sessions addressed key challenges such as the forming of ultra-thin metallic materials, including stainless steels and specialty alloys, while ensuring consistent quality at high production volumes. Particular emphasis was placed on process repeatability, die protection and the need for highly rigid press structures capable of maintaining accuracy over extended production cycles. Participants also explored collaborative approaches across the valuechain to accelerate industrialisation and meet the rapidly growing demand from the global hydrogen market.
The day’ s programme was structured to provide a comprehensive balance between technical content, industrial case studies and networking opportunities. The event opened at 9am with a welcome address, followed by an introduction to AIDA and its global positioning in advanced metal-forming technologies. Technical contributions from Fraunhofer IPT and FCI set the research and innovation framework, leading to a detailed presentation of the AIDA DSF-BE1 Series and an in-depth review of the June 2025 bipolar plate die test results.
After a mid-morning networking break, the agenda continued with focused presentations on automation solutions for bipolar plate production by Automatic-Systeme Dreher, material developments in stainless steel by Aperam and an industrial testimonial from Borit. A moderated Q & A and open discussion session encouraged direct technical exchange before the business lunch and networking session.
“ In the afternoon, participants joined a guided factory tour, followed by a live bipolar plate-forming demonstration on the AIDA DSF- BE1-16000-300-120 servo press. The technical programme concluded with additional industrial testimonials from Precision Resource, tooling solutions presented by MOLDINO and advanced testing and metrology insights from LABAMIE. A final Q & A session and closing networking segment included seasonal greetings and a farewell address,” outlined AIDA Europe.
Live press demonstration
A central highlight of Bipolar Plate Day 2025 was the presentation and live demonstration of AIDA Europe’ s new DSF-BE1 Series servo presses, specifically engineered for bipolar plate-forming applications. The DSF-BE1-16000 model is a dedicated solution combining high forming force, large bed dimensions and advanced motion control. The press features a 1600-ton, servo-driven capacity with a 3000 x 1200mm table, providing space and flexibility for complex bipolar plate tooling layouts and multi-cavity dies.
Particular emphasis was placed on process repeatability, die protection and the need for highly rigid press structures capable of maintaining accuracy over extended production cycles
“ Designed with a high-rigidity press structure, the DSF-BE1-16000 ensures part accuracy while contributing to extended die life, an essential factor for cost-effective mass production. The press integrates a Scotch yoke kinematic system, optimised for stable force transmission, with an automatic load-based closed-loop adjustment system. This advanced control architecture continuously compensates for load variations, significantly improving the repeatability and precision of the slide’ s bottom dead centre( BDC) position, a critical parameter in bipolar plate forming where micron-level accuracy is required,” commented AIDA Europe.
“ During the live demonstration, a bipolar plate die developed by Fraunhofer IPT was mounted on the DSF-BE1-16000 servo press, allowing participants to observe real forming conditions. The demonstration clearly illustrated the press’ s control over slide motion, force application and positional accuracy, confirming its suitability for demanding bipolar plate applications. Attendees were able to evaluate the press’ s performance in terms of precision, process stability and repeatability— key enablers for industrial-scale fuel cell production,” it continued.
Production and processes
In addition to the technical programme, guests participated in a guided tour of AIDA Europe’ s production facilities. The factory tour offered a‘ behind-the-scenes’ view of the company’ s manufacturing processes, quality assurance systems and engineering capabilities, highlighting AIDA’ s expertise in press design and manufacturing.
“ Visitors gained direct insight into how innovation, rigorous quality standards and customer-focused engineering are embedded throughout our operations,” AIDA Europe told ISMR.
The event brought together research, industry and technology partners, fostering collaboration and accelerating the development of bipolar plate production systems. By hosting‘ Bipolar Plate Day 2025’, AIDA Europe reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the hydrogen and fuel cell industries with dedicated forming solutions tailored to next-generation energy technologies. n
www. aida-europe. com / en
ISMR February 2026 | ismr. net | 43