Michael Lindgren has in his research shown that high-strength steel can be formed into complex details, without affecting the quality. He defended his thesis and computitional Experimental Investigation of the role of forming process on December 9. Michael Lindgren came as an industrial graduate to Dalarna University and National School of Materials Processing. He was linked to Borlänge company Ortic AB. Lars Ingvarsson, trained researcher and PhD, was the company's CEO and a strong driving force behind this development.
Cost-effective technologies
A unique so-called 3D roll forming machine has been built in a laboratory at Dalarna University. It is used to evaluate the profiles made of high strength steel for the automotive industry. Characteristics of the 3D technique in comparison with conventional roll forming, is that it can produce profiles with different depths and widths. This is done in a single process, from flat sheet metal strip to finished product. The plate is passing tool rolls that gradually changes the shape. This technology is saving both time and money.
The steel industry must adapt to fierce competition
Michael Lindgren and his colleagues' research is significant in the steel industry's adaptation to a faster and more cost-effective manufacturing. A growing proportion of the world's cold-rolled materials are roll formed today. More and more complex profiles are requested. This means that the demands increase on hardware and tool design.
Starting his own business
The new technology developed at Ortic AB with Michael Lindgren as a researcher and development director gives great promise for the future of the steel industry. He is now starting his own business for developing work and linking business and higher education closer.
Michael Lindgren has lived in Gustafs outside Borlänge since 2003. He was born in Rättvik, studied Civil Engineering in Linköping, and then became an industrial graduate at Dalarna University and the National School of Materials Processing.
Please contact Michael Lindgren for further information,
Phone: 070-524 36 73,
e-mail: m.lindgren @ data-m.com