The Forschungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft Fügetechnik GmbH (FEF) is a provider of services with cross-industry activities in the field of joining technology. The focus of its activities is on the realisation of complex R&D tasks. FEF's special feature of competence is the combination of well-founded scientific-theoretical expertise and extensive practical expertise in the fields of joining technology, metallurgy and materials technology, automation and sensor technology as well as digitalisation. FEF operates both nationally and internationally and is characterised by close networking with leading research institutions as well as manufacturers and users in the field of joining technology. FEF supports companies from all sectors in the development, qualification and introduction of innovative solution concepts. In addition to process-based topics, FEF also deals with demanding material and testing technology as well as analytical issues. Complete independence from manufacturers ensures objectivity and openness to technology in equal measure, in order to develop both technically and economically optimal solutions for individual applications. The identification and implementation of optimisation potential with regard to already existing products and production processes contributes in the short or medium term to the stabilisation of manufacturing procedures as well as to the conservation or increase of performance and competitiveness. FEF's field of activity covers all industry-relevant joining processes (e.g. arc welding, laser beam welding, electron beam welding, resistance welding, friction stir welding, additive manufacturing, brazing/soldering, bonding, etc.) and sectors (e.g. automotive engineering, steel construction, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, power engineering, apparatus and tank construction, rail vehicle construction, commercial vehicle construction, aerospace engineering, domestic installation technology, etc.).