Frank Ulrich Rückert

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Frank Ulrich Rückert is a Professor of Fluid Energy Machines at the University of Applied Sciences Saarland (HTW Saar), where he teaches Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics, and Computational Fluid Dynamics. He serves as Spokesperson for the Institute for Physical Process Technology, Study Director for the Master's program in Safety Management, and Deputy Study Director for the Bachelor's program in Industrial Engineering. His work spans multiple research projects including WiPaKü, ELTROSOL, and H2-Schmiede.

Dr. Rückert earned his degree in Environmental Engineering and Process Engineering with a focus on Process and Plant Engineering at BTU Cottbus, followed by a doctorate at the University of Stuttgart on technical combustion. His professional experience includes significant work at Robert Bosch GmbH at various international locations, where he developed nozzle and valve systems for liquid fuels and gases, and contributed to the pre-development of micro-steam turbines for waste heat recovery for over four years.

His research focuses on modeling and simulation of physical and chemical processes, with particular expertise in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), digital twins, and programming mathematical models. He investigates renewable energy systems, heat transport, thermodynamics, energy storage, waste heat recovery, and high performance computing applications. His work bridges theoretical knowledge with practical engineering applications across power plant technology and grate firing systems.

Dr. Rückert's recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward digital twin technology across multiple engineering domains including hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, and mechanical systems. His work increasingly integrates artificial intelligence with simulation techniques, as evidenced by publications on AI-based positioning systems and metaverse applications for education. The research spans both fundamental engineering principles and cutting-edge applications in renewable energy systems.

• Honorary Golden Spike Award 2002 from the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS)
• Saarland Higher Education Teaching Award 2021

Dr. Rückert has secured funding for numerous research projects including WiPaKü (development of gearless wind energy generators), ELTROSOL (electrofilters for aerosol capture), H2-Schmiede (CO2 reduction in forging processes), and RePowerFish (renewable power supply for fish farming). He serves on the Scientific Committee for the SYMKOM conference and is actively involved with the Commercial Vehicle Cluster CVC Südwest. His external engagements include membership on the Landstuhl City Council and the Saarland Energy Innovation Initiative (LIESA).

As Spokesperson for the Institute for Physical Process Technology and member of the wi-institute, Dr. Rückert leads several research teams focused on simulation and measurement technology. His work with the Wind Energy Lab demonstrates practical application of theoretical knowledge, while his involvement in the eClose project shows commitment to innovative educational approaches. The Competence Center for Fluid Machinery, Simulation and Measurement Technology serves as the hub for his interdisciplinary research activities.