Steel
We work together closely with the steel industry with a view to promoting competitiveness, efficiency and sustainability via advanced technological solutions. We apply our experience in research to the design of materials, optimisation of manufacturing processes and the digital transformation of the plant, thus contributing towards smarter and more secure production that is in line with the challenges faced by decarbonisation and the circular economy.
Capacities
Advanced materials
We develop steels (high/low carbon, microalloys, stainless, etc.) which are customised and adapted to the demanding environments of the steel industry. We research into improvements in compositions that can withstand high temperatures, wear and severe service conditions, and we are working on the design of new grades of stainless steels with high added value that are geared towards reducing the environmental footprint and increasing production efficiency.
Further informationSteel forming
We optimise thermo-mechanical processing roadmaps and thermal treatments for long and flat products, tubes and other forging components, using modelling and numerical simulation and by developing specific software to enable faults to be predicted and critical parameters in the process adapted. Additionally, we analyse the quality of steels in the course of their manufacturing in special atmospheres involving combustion, by focusing on decarbonisation, and we also study the fragilization of the materials used for the hydrogen economy.
Further informationZero-defect manufacturing
We analyse any deviations and non-conformities that may emerge in the course of the different forming stages. As a result, we define the optimum manufacturing roadmap to prevent faults and minimise the loss of material. We specialise in the development of contactless parts inspection techniques via the use of electromagnetic techniques, artificial intelligence algorithms and optical image processing, in order to detect surface defects and ensure dimensional control.
Design and mechanical behaviour
We develop and validate critical mechanical systems for steel environments by assessing their behaviour in terms of fatigue, vibrations, wear and thermal impact. These capacities enable equipment reliability to be increased, and its lifespan extended under demanding operational conditions.
Further informationAdditive manufacturing
We accompany the steel industry in their diversification towards new markets, by providing our expertise in customised metal powder atomisation for applications in powder metallurgy processes, such as additive manufacturing.
Further informationSmart factory
We promote the digitalisation of steel plants via solutions such as collaborative robotics, real-time monitoring of products and processes, automated inspection systems and digital operator assistance. Additionally, we integrate technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital twins and industrial cybersecurity with a view to making advances towards more connected, resilient and efficient factories.
Further informationCircular economy
We develop modelling and simulation tools for dumping and treatment plants to enable water to be managed in industrial environments, as well as contributing towards an improvement in the control of liquid emissions, complying with regulations and reducing the environmental impact of the steel process. Likewise, we research into solutions for the recovery of industrial water and the valuation of inorganic waste such as slag and sludge, using sustainable physicochemical and technological processes. Our goal is to facilitate the reuse of by-products and contribute towards a more circular and efficient steel industry.
Further information