Sustainable product realization of cast iron components in an extended value chain

Purpose and goal

Despite pandemic challenges, valuable results have been obtained such as the implementation of new cutting data that contributed to million savings and the establishment of new research projects, however without succeeding in solving the mechanisms of cold aging. Deficient aging can be managed with environmentally friendly vegetable oil with nanoparticles supplied through MQL lubrication. Colding´s equation for tool life can be adapted to milling with 3-5% deviation for fully aged material. Cost calculations show that MQL lubrication can reduce manufacturing costs by 5-20%.

Expected results and effects

The results of the project have had a major impact in industry and academia. Recommendations dealing with lack of ageing and low machinability have been developed. Materials should be optimised towards one type of cutting material. The results show that more focus needs to be put on improved material combinations, material flows and separation in order to achieve sustainable circularity. The mechanisms behind cold ageing are being addressed through the use of large research infrastructures.

Planned approach and implementation

The work has been conducted through industrial case studies and through experimental trials in academia. One focus has been to understand the causes and mechanisms behind the industrial problems obtained in connection with the use of recycled materials, among others. However, the pandemic has affected the project. Initial studies at MAX IV have been carried out with the aim of clarifying the mechanisms behind cold ageing, further experiments are required, which are planned in Grenoble.