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- Surface Modification Processes: Laser heat treating, peening, bending, cleaning, and deburring applications used to enhance material and surface performance.
- Marking and Laser-Assisted Manufacturing: Laser marking, product traceability, laser-assisted manufacturing methods, and process integration strategies.
- Melting, Polishing, and Surface Engineering: Laser polishing, surface structuring, conduction-mode melting, and keyhole-mode processing.
- Additive Manufacturing Applications: Laser-based additive manufacturing technologies, process capabilities, quality considerations, and production applications.
- Laser Welding Technologies: Welding fundamentals, process selection, joint design, defect prevention, and troubleshooting methodologies.
- Laser Cutting and Emerging Applications: Thermal and ultrafast laser cutting, precision material removal, process optimization, future technologies, and industry case studies.
- Tuesday evenings – Lecture session
- Thursday evenings – Case study discussion session
- Registration Date/Time 10/27/26 05:45 PM Central Time
- Time: 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM Central Time
- Delivery: Live via Zoom
- Course Dates: 10/27/2026 to 12/08/2026
Instructors
Frank Pfefferkorn
Professor, Mechanical Engineering (ME)
Dr. Frank Pfefferkorn is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His teaching and research are focused on discrete metal part manufacturing processes, and heat transfer as it applies to manufacturing processes. His goals are to: (1) educate/develop manufacturing engineers/workforce, and (2) build a scientific understanding of advanced manufacturing processes, develop physics-based models that can be used to improve and control these processes, and to transfer this fundamental knowledge to industry. In his lab he conducts research with a focus on where the tool meets the workpiece, whether that tool is a laser, mechanical cutting tool, friction stir tool, etc. Currently, his lab is conducting research on: friction stir welding and processing, placing sensors in the coatings of cutting tools for smart manufacturing, solid-state metal additive-subtractive manufacturing (including friction surfacing), and laser remelting surfaces for polishing, structuring, and hardening.
In addition to being an Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering he serves as the Academic Director of the online MS Manufacturing Systems Engineering Program at UW-Madison.
Kevin Klingbeil
Kevin Klingbeil is a seasoned expert in laser manufacturing processes with over 25 years of experience in process engineering, quality management, and technology leadership. He began his career after earning a physics degree from UW–Madison, initially working in automated circuit board inspection before advancing into laser-based manufacturing. His expertise spans laser welding, cutting, scoring, cladding, and heat treating across both metallic and non-metallic materials using a wide range of laser systems and wavelengths.
Kevin has consistently taken on both technical and leadership roles, including managing quality systems, developing embedded controls for galvo scanners, and directing multidisciplinary teams. He has also contributed to industry knowledge through conference presentations and client education. Currently, he leads his own consulting firm, Cross Product Solutions, helping manufacturers optimize laser processes and system integration.
Program Director
James Rink