Inline laser ultrasonics for microstructure verification of heat treatments and thermal processes (ILUMHEAT)

Purpose and goal

The project aims to improve heat treatment processes in the Swedish metal industry by using laser ultrasound (LUS) for real-time microstructure measurements directly in production in four Swedish steel mills. The concrete objectives of the project include a LUS instrument prototype for industrial environments, compilation of which data is most relevant for each mill, evaluation of how processes are improved with this data, and a plan for how the technology can be integrated into production.

Expected effects and result

The project will demonstrate how in-line laser ultrasonic (LUS) measurements can improve process control and provide a basis for future industrial implementation. The technology enables non-destructive, contact-free analysis of material properties at high temperatures, which can lead to improved process control, reduced waste and more consistent product quality. At the end of the project, there will be a clear picture of how LUS technology can improve each studied process.

Planned approach and implementation

The initial focus of the project will be on developing a new prototype for a flexible LUS measurement instrument that can be adapted to several different environments with varying challenges (heat, water, dirt, etc.) and which type of microstructure data is most interesting for a given process. The prototype will then be installed in several different steel mills and used for measurement, while the design is evaluated and developed continuously.