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Laser ultrasonics for microstructure verification of heat treatments and thermal processes (LUMHEAT)

Reference number
Coordinator SWERIM AB
Funding from Vinnova SEK 700 000
Project duration October 2024 - September 2025
Status Ongoing
Venture Impact Innovation Metals & Minerals - Program-specific efforts Vinnova
Call Impact Innovation: Feasibility studies within Technological Action Areas in the program Metals & Minerals

Important results from the project

The project has demonstrated that laser ultrasound (LUS) can be used to measure microstructure in real time during heat treatment. The objectives were met: optics for longer working distances were verified, and site studies showed that the technology can be installed industrially. The results contribute to future process control based on material data, which can reduce scrap and increase productivity.

Expected long term effects

In the long term, LUS technology is expected to enable material-based process control in the steel industry. It can reduce scrap, improve product quality and increase energy efficiency. The technology supports digitalization and sustainable production, and can become a key component of future green transitions and heat treatment standards.

Approach and implementation

The project was implemented according to plan in five work packages: project management, experiments and sensor tests, prototype sketches, company-adapted plans and preparation of a full-scale application. All activities were relevant and implemented as intended. The time schedule needed a small extension and the cooperation between the parties worked very well. No major obstacles or unexpected events affected the implementation of the project.

The project description has been provided by the project members themselves and the text has not been looked at by our editors.

Last updated 29 September 2025

Reference number 2024-02653