METALsurf -objective classification of metal surfaces

Important results from the project

The aim of the project was to develop knowledge and methods that can be used, wholly or partly, for the development of objective classification of visual requirements on product surfaces from profile to processed- and surface finished product. Within the project: - a demo version of a classification system based on international standards was developed for metal surfaces - the basis for a defect library was developed - a consensus within the project consortium for surface assessment of aluminum surfaces was created, where the focus has shifted from defects to effects

Expected long term effects

The project has resulted in general guidelines for a common terminology and a classification system for visual surface requirements. An implementation of objective & standardized surface criteria will ease the communication between producer and customer at every stage by using agreed methods & measurable parameters to discuss expected & actual production outcomes and make comparisons with jointly developed tolerance levels and classifications. This in turn is expected to lead to shorter lead times, increased satisfaction, and increased sustainability through reduced scrap.

Approach and implementation

Halmstad UNiversity (HH) has been the main applicant & project manager for the project. Most of the participating companies actively contributed to the collection of samples, pilot tests & the round-robin study; analysis, development of the classification system & surface measurement have mainly taken place at HH. Ongoing dialogue & iterations during joint project meetings, and completed workshops hosted by the project participants, have contributed to internal training and enhanced competence. A common consensus in surface characterization has matured during the project.