Sustainable laser pretreatment and quality control for high performing bonding of cast aluminum

Purpose and goal

The project focuses on developing close to climate-neutral laser pretreatment processes for adhesive bonding and laser welding in electric vehicles (EV). The processes are expected to generate high-performance surfaces adapted for bonding and laser welding and result in at least doubled lifetime of bonded connections as well as reduced lifetime variations linked to improved surface chemistry and surface structure.

Expected effects and result

The project expects to result in sustainable, robust and resource efficient processes for production with laser pretreatment before joining. The processes will be developed to receive an extended life span of products, with a more efficient use of recources for fossile free road transports. The processes are expected also to generate improved work environment, and increased competitiveness.

Planned approach and implementation

The project consists of partners from the OEM, equipment and material supplier and a research institute. The work is divided into five work packages including deep analysis, coupon and demonstrator testing, implementation aspects and a cost and sustainability study.