On November 27 and 28, our colleague Nico Rademacher took part in the workshop “Digital Tools for the Metallurgical Industry” in Bergamo. The aim of the event was to create a platform for researchers and users to discuss the latest results of digital transformation by exchanging knowledge about the applications of AI, computer-aided simulation, and data processing in the field of metallurgy.
The 80 participants had the opportunity to attend interesting presentations on various topics. The first day of the event focused on the implementation of artificial intelligence in the steel industry with the aim of optimizing processes and end products. On the second day, the focus was on process modeling using digital twins and simulations covering the entire metal industry.
As part of the completed HeatSteel project, Nico presented a model for simulating flatness deviations during the heat treatment of steel strips in his lecture “Investigation of flatness defects during annealing: a combined approach using heat transfer measurements, thermal and mechanical simulations” This combines experimental measurements of the heat transfer coefficient of a gas nozzle system with thermal and mechanical simulations. In particular, the influence of rapid cooling of steel strips on the formation of flatness defects is investigated. The aim of this simulation is to better understand and predict the influence of the current heat treatment on the product. The model thus provides a basis for supporting plant operators in process optimization.
Also of interest was the presentation “Forecast of deformation deriving from heat treatment” by Cristian Viscardi from Ecotre Valente. In his model, the heat treatment of individual components and their deformation is represented by simulations that included processes analogous to the IOB’s investigations.
An additional highlight of the event was the joint dinner featuring local cuisine on the first day, which provided excellent opportunities for networking.
We would like to thank the Associazione Italiana di Metallurgia for organizing this successful event and look forward to incorporating the insights gained into our work.