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 |
Purpose and goal
The goal of our project is to revolutionize the thermal and thermo-mechanical processes in the Swedish metal industry by providing real-time, non-contact measurements of material properties using laser ultrasonics. The in-situ measurement will allow for probing the microstructure of steel plates/strips without altering their integrity and provide information in real-time to enable direct feedback/forward control of the heat treatment processes.
Expected effects and result
The novel microstructure sensor based on laser ultrasonics can enhance the efficiency and precision of thermal and thermo-mechanical processes in the steel industry. By enabling direct online measurement and verification of steel microstructures it should lead to more efficient use of resources and energy. This contributes to more sustainable production methods by minimizing the overuse of resources.
Planned approach and implementation
Our project will be executed in five work packages, each contributing to the overall goal of revolutionizing heat treatment in the Swedish steel industry. WP 1: Project management and reporting WP 2: Experimental study and sensor development WP 3: Design sketch of the prototype LUS microstructure gauge WP 4: Company specific plan on the utilization of the novel data WP 5: Project plan for a full-scale project