Efficient metalpowder process with innovative sensor technique

Important results from the project

The aim was to gain knowledge about the feasibility in using fiber optic distributed temperature sensing in industrial belt furnaces for powder annealing and how the improved temperature control can be used for improving the process in terms of higher raw material and energy efficiency. This was very much fulfilled and we have a very good view on the technical status, its potential to allow for improved energy- and material efficiency and what is needed to reach industrial implementation.

Expected long term effects

By testing in lab environment we have demonstrated the advantages and limitations of different fiber optic sensor configurations for installation in band furnaces, performed a test installation which has shown that it is technically possible to install fiber optic sensors and that its performance after some development is considered to have the potential for industrial integration in band furnaces. Identified possible process improvements that technology allows, and made calculations of possible energy and raw material savings

Approach and implementation

Initially physically studying banding furnaces and investigating possible methods and configurations to install a measuring fiber in both production and experimental furnaces and what is required for them to provide added value was very successful. On the one hand, it provided an early understanding of the technology´s possibilities for investigating possible process improvements, and on the other hand, relevant tests in the lab environment could be started early, which resulted in a well designed fiber sensor configuration being developed and a successful test installation.