Högskolan i Skövde

This pilot study is meant to start off a larger current larger project at the University of Skövde. In the larger study synergy research between lasers, compacted graphite iron, and photodiode insitu monitoring are to be studies. Through the use of lasers, the surface of the compacted graphiteiron is to be heat treated for wear resistance and strength. The photodiode will create data tobe used for simulation and neural networks to evaluate optimal process parameters. As such, this pilot study engages in making initial discoveries from which further research in the larger project can be based. To do so a scheme of action research is adopted, where iterations of plan-act-reflect drives the project forward. Through five iterations two main methods are tried and their results documented. The study shows that it is possible to create a hardened surface layer using lasers. It also gives some indication on how to continue work in the larger project, to possibly create a material with favourable material parameters from a single irradiation.