Pre-study: Improvement of steel machinability by optimization of non-metallic inclusions (MACHINOPT-P)
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea KIMAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 944 141 |
| Project duration | October 2013 - December 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Metallic material |
| Call | 2014-01201-en |
Important results from the project
The purpose of the pre-study was to evaluate if it is possible to modify steel by advanced metallurgy for improvement of machinability. The purpose was also to establish a sufficiently rigorous testing and evaluation methodology to allow differentiation between clean steels and thus make it possible to assess improvements. An application regarding the planned full-scale project was submitted to VINNOVA (LIGHTer & Metallic Materials) as the project aims have been fulfilled. The application for the full-scale project was successfully granted and has now started.
Expected long term effects
A good collaboration between the leading companies within the Swedish steel and the cutting tool industry has been established throughout this project. This project has resulted in an increased awareness within the participating companies of the potential to improve the machinability of high-performing steels. Furthermore, the metallurgical aspects for this purpose have been addressed, and a way forward suggested. However, a full scale project is necessary to really approach these questions. This will directly increase the competitiveness of Swedish steel industry.
Approach and implementation
The pre-study has been conducted through 3 work packages: (1) Literature review, (2) Method development and (3) Concluding assessment of the project´s results which are summarized in a final report. To approach a pre-study by reviewing the topic and to develop a method in order to enable quantification and comparison of results is necessary. The planning and execution of the project is therefore considered thought through.