Important results from the project
The project delivered proof-of-concept for LUS as a method for quality assurance of battery welds. The objectives were partially met, but the analysis of LUS data proved more complex than expected due to porosity and surface influence of the laser weld geometry. This indicates the need for a larger project to collect sufficient data and enable production decisions based on LUS measurements.
Expected long term effects
A full implementation of laser ultrasound for quality assurance of battery welds strengthens the competitiveness of the Swedish automotive industry. This reduces scrapping and fire risk, extends the life of batteries and enables an afterlife in, for example, stationary energy storage. The technology supports circular material flows and creates a platform for digitalization and decision support in production.
Approach and implementation
The project was implemented in 5 work packages. The activities were somewhat high for a feasibility study and the ambition level had to be adjusted slightly. The project certainly advanced the research field, but the expected TRL level was not reached. The collaboration worked well and the partners helped each other to complete all tasks to meet the objective of the project. The schedule needed to be extended slightly to deal with some unforeseen delays in the production of the test samples.
The project description has been provided by the project members themselves and the text has not been looked at by our editors.