Paradigm shift in thermal technology for forming of lightweight components - ThermLight

Purpose and goal:

The objective of the study was to test the feasibility of a new using induction heating technology for lightweight sheet metal in an industrial manufacturing context. The goal was to form the basis for a full-scale project. Induction heating was explored experimentally. Evaluation was made through observations and adjustments continuously as well as material investigations of treated samples. The tests provided ample basis for the evaluations that were made.

Expected results and effects:

The feasibility study was expected to result in information regarding technical and commercial aspects of how a full-scale project should be planned. The results were most clear for the technical aspects. For the commercial aspects, factors outside the scope of the project have a great impact. As a whole, the results were very positive for the evaluated induction technology.

Approach and implementation:

The research work was to be conducted in three different work packages: WP1 Technical feasibility, heating experiments and material characterisation; WP2 Industrial feasibility, economic and other aspects; WP3 Summary and synthesis, preparation for full-scale project. In the practical realisation of the project, the division of work was not clear until at the final part when the project was summarised, and conclusions were drawn.