Resurseffektivisering med hjälp av laserultraljud i tillverkningsindustrin

Using laser ultrasound (LUS), Swerim has in the project “Resource Efficiency with Laser Ultrasound (REAL)” succeeded in determining case hardening depth with very high accuracy and hardness with good accuracy in induction-hardened steel components – primarily crankshafts for heavy vehicles. Today, these properties are measured through destructive testing, but LUS technology has strong potential as a non-destructive alternative.

If LUS is used directly in production, the manufacturer can achieve faster and more comprehensive quality control without destroying components. In the long run, this can mean fewer production stops for testing, reduced scrap rates, earlier detection of defects, and thereby both increased efficiency and improved quality assurance. The technology can also help lower costs and improve delivery reliability.

The REAL project was funded by Vinnova, the Swedish Energy Agency, and Formas within Produktion2030. In addition to Swerim, the participants included Luleå University of Technology, Volvo Group Trucks Operations, Scania, Bodycote, Sandvik, and Volvo Construction Equipment.