The automotive lightweight trends, being driven by sustainability, cost, and performance, that create the enormous demand for lightweight materials and design concepts, are a part of the circular economy solutions in modern mobility and transportation. This concept has led to a dire need for lightweight automotive chassis for complying with ever-tightening emission norms, aggressive pickup, and higher mileage requirements; while for EVs it translates into a higher range per charge.  There is a conflicting requirement for a sturdier build for better crashworthiness and vehicle Safety, leaving no option but to go for stronger but lighter material. New grades of steel have been evolving to fulfill such application requirements of robust vehicle structures.

Keeping this in mind, IMTMA is conducting a training program to cover the developments in high-strength sheet metal materials, processes, tools, equipment, and related Simulation requirements.

Professor Narasimhan is spearheading Metallurgy Department at IIT Bombay. He is driving “The Sheet Metal Forming Research Association” which is the apex body in the field of Advanced Sheet Metal Forming-related Research and Seminars. He has been a key resource person for IMTMA for its courses and International Seminars.

The program shall be co-delivered by Mr. Sachin Nirgudkar, an entrepreneur, who manages a company Industrial Interface India 3i, which is into fine blanking and hot forming applications. His company represents well-known brands such as Feintool and Benteler. He was formerly working as Managing Director with ABP Induction and with as Vice President with Schuler, Germany, responsible for both sales and service activities. He has also worked with Mahindra Intertrade limited in various capacities including as Head of Sharjah Operations.