During the Tag der offenen Tür at TU Wien (Open day), which took place on the 25th of April 2025, visitors were invited to explore the university’s cutting-edge research, educational programs and vibrant student life. Prospective students, families and curious minds toured laboratories, attended live demonstrations and spoke directly with researchers and students about their work and experiences. The event offered an excellent opportunity to learn more about TU Wien’s diverse departments and how science and engineering are applied to real-world challenges.

The Institute for Energy Systems and Thermodynamics presented model experiments with a mini steam engine, a Stirling engine with a solar receiver, and electrolysis/fuel cell setups. The program also included explanations of the main challenges in developing complex sector-coupled energy systems and discussions on mathematical methods for optimizing thermal energy systems. These hands-on exhibits and discussions highlight the institute’s contributions to advancing sustainable energy technologies.

CESAREF PhD15, Victor Ruela, introduced the students to the steel ladle logistics problem. He and his colleagues developed a game where students had to schedule typical activities involved in actual industrial operations. Consisting of two levels with increasing difficulty, it allowed students to understand how the decisions affected the energy efficiency of the process and how the problem can quickly become complex, highlighting how mathematical methods are important in real life.