ICFP 2025: Where Friction Sparks Innovation

As next-gen manufacturing technologies take center stage, the 4th International Conference on Friction-Based Processes (ICFP) will be held from September 6-8, 2025, at S R Convention, Tirupati. Organized by the International Association for Processing of Materials and Fabrication of Products (IA-PMFP) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Tirupati, IIT Patna, IIT Dharwad, and Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, the conference promises a global dynamic confluence of research, innovation, and industry engagement.

Since its inception in 2014, ICFP has grown into a prestigious international event, highlighting the importance of friction-based processes in the modern manufacturing evolution. This year’s edition marks the second time the event is being organized in India and is expected to attract over 250 delegates, 50 of whom are international participants, ensuring a global exchange of ideas.

Behind the Breakthroughs

The technical lineup consists of plenary talks, two parallel sessions as well as poster session, and a special session on the challenging issues in friction-based processes. In alignment with the previous ICFP conferences, sufficient time will be dedicated to interactive discussion during and after the session, which will offer good exposure to young researchers. As an acknowledgement of new talent, the organizers plan to select up to six posters for various awards.

The topics of discussion will range right from friction-based metal forming processes, friction stir welding and allied processes, to smart manufacturing, AI/ML, digital twin technologies, and deformation mechanisms and advanced characterization. The agenda of the conference is vital, and it addresses the relevance of friction-based processes in the future of engineering as its application extends to aerospace and defence, automotive and structural applications, as well as naval and nuclear industries.

ICFP 2025 aims to bring to the fore the fundamentals of friction-based processes, processing–microstructure–property correlations, and industrial applications while addressing future challenges. Delegates will experience a rich blend of plenary talks, invited contributions, poster presentations, flash talks for students, informal discussions, and social engagements. Offering student awards, cultural programs, and opportunities for international publication, the conference promises to be a comprehensive event where science, innovation, and collaboration meet against the vibrant Tirupati backdrop.

Voices of Authority

ICFP 2025 will feature a high-quality panel of Indian and international presenters. A rich blend of ideas will be represented by such distinguished researchers as Prof Achilles Vairis, University of West Attica, Greece, and Editor-in-Chief, Welding International; Prof Hidetoshi Fujii, Osaka University, Japan; Prof Ivan Galvão, Polytechnic University of Lisbon; and Prof Qingyu Shi, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, along with the creme de la creme of academicians and scientists of IITs, IISc, DRDO, ISRO, and international universities.

Their contributions will not only highlight fundamental ideas but also convert the research into practical industrial solutions. The presented papers will also be considered for publication in journals like Materials Characterization, Journal of Materials Engineering & Performance, Journal of Manufacturing Processes, Welding International, and Springer Proceedings in Materials, garnering global visibility for their work.

Beyond the Conference

Apart from the technical sessions, there is also much to see and experience the unique cultural and spiritual facets of Tirupati. Delegates can look forward to planned tours to nearby places of interest, vibrant cultural evenings featuring classical dance and music, and a special Sri Venkateswara Swamy Tirumala Temple Darshan arranged exclusively for attendees. The pleasant weather of September coupled with the thoughtful arrangements of food, stay, and sightseeing, the organizing committee is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitors.