Feasibility study - Focus on Hygien - Clean sheet metal for increased productivity at sheet forming

Important results from the project

The pre-study was intended to compile baseline information for future work in the planned main project and ensuring that it gets the right direction. The pre-study has been analyzing possible methods for measuring particles on a flat surface/plate or component, and methods to measure the defects they cause. The pre-study has also examined what other companies in the same or similar industries have made concerning particle cleanliness in connection with sheet metal forming and other processes with high requirements on surface finish.

Expected long term effects

It has been shown in this pre-study that there are significant opportunities to improve competitiveness by developing methodologies to control particle cleanliness at sheet metal forming processes. The main project will strengthen research and generate new knowledge through collaborative research in an organized manner. The project results will directly lead to productivity improvements at the participating companies. The outcome will also be highly relevant for other manufacturing industries, where particles can cause problems during production or with the products.

Approach and implementation

The pre-study had 3 work packages WP1 Benchmark - Mapping of measurement techniques and occurence of particles in production processes and how to measure particles on sheet metal. Synergies with other sectors with similar manufacturing processes. WP2 Assessment Methods - Evaluation of methods for measurement of particles on components. Mapping of measuring systems for analysing defects on formed components. Verify lab tools and measurement methodologies with pre-defined particles. WP3 Survey - Preliminary study on selected manufacturing processes.