Cast metal with intelligence

Important results from the project

A project plan has been developed for innovation of entirely new cast metal integrated robust and cost efficient sensors with sensor systems, for efficient control and monitoring of machines and equipment in harsh and remote environments. Measurands are e.g. prolongation, temperature and vibration. The purposes of these integrated sensors are to innovate new values for products based on cast metal components, and to solve some of metal industry´s challenges; resource efficiency, added value, and a new innovation platform for digitalization.

Expected long term effects

The project has established the base for an innovation system for castings with sensors, by participating companies having clarified the market value and the research institutes with support in several prototypes compiled a knowledge base to develop functionality and study consequences in cast components. The innovation has a high expected market value and the technical challenges have been mapped. Hereby the base of the innovation platform is identified, and it will be widened and further rooted as new knowledge is acquired, and through further projects.

Approach and implementation

The planning project started with a 2-days kick-off where the partners´ interests and knowledge bases were presented and discussed. From there the development has been driven by frequent meetings between all partners, with 5 paths: 1) Development of consortium agreement for the main project. 2) Compilation of potential sensor systems, with costs. 3) Identification of different sensor materials for casting. 4) Development of several cast prototypes. 5) Common development of the main project for the intense innovation cooperation. Analysis: All partners drive the development.