LAP Measurement Technology GmbH and the Institute of Metal Forming at TU Bergakademie Freiberg announced a strategic partnership
The integration of LAP's CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE 50 laser measuring system into TUBAF's rolling mill unlocks potential for process optimization in bar steel and wire production
LAP Measurement Technology GmbH, a leading provider of laser measurement systems, has strengthened its cooperation with the Institute of Metal Forming (IMF). This strategic partnership centers on integrating LAP's CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE 50 laser measuring system into the rolling mill at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF). The official handover of the system took place during a celebratory evening event as part of MEFORM. The collaboration represents a significant milestone for process optimization in the steel industry.
Collaborating on metallurgical optimizations in rolling processes
The CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE 50 measuring system will be implemented at TUBAF, which operates its own continuous rolling mill for long and flat products, for an initial period of two years. This integration will enable the IMF to collect precise in-line measurement data from the rolling process, forming the basis for process-relevant actions. In addition, the IMF is currently developing its own software solution for simulating caliber rolling. This software, called "PyRolL," is open source and has already attracted a wide user base. Along with continuous validation using in-line data from the CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE, the IMF is also exploring options for directly linking the software with the measurement system to provide thermal expansion coefficients, for instance.
Contour measuring system closes the gap
LAP's precise contour measuring systems, which specialize in measuring long products, perfectly complement IML's competencies. This collaboration addresses a crucial capability gap in the IMF's semi-continuous rolling mill, as Prof. Dr. Ing. Ulrich Prahl, the Institute Director of the IMF, highlighted: "Contour measuring systems have become the industry standard in steel bar and wire production. With the CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE 50 from LAP, we can introduce students to this technology early on and develop new evaluation standards for ribbed steels."
Rolling mills benefit from enhanced network and know-how transfer
Martin Dronsek, CEO of LAP Measurement Technology GmbH, emphasized the importance of this cooperation, stating: "A notable aspect of our collaboration is the opportunity to provide our customers and potential clients with a live test of the system in Freiberg. Additionally, we will enhance our network with TUBAF to further progress in metallurgical optimization. With this partnership, we are laying the foundation for continuously developing our products and adapting them to rolling mills' current and future requirements."
Strengthening cooperation since 2022
LAP Measurement Technology GmbH and the Institute of Metal Forming (IMF) at TU Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF) have strengthened their cooperation since 2022. In addition to expert presentations at conferences, the idea of a strategic partnership took shape. Both parties signed the cooperation agreement in September 2024.
About LAP Measurement Technology GmbH
LAP is one of the world's leading suppliers of systems to increase quality and efficiency through laser projection, laser measurement, and other methods. LAP Measurement Technology GmbH focuses on non-contact laser measuring systems for quality inspection and process optimization in the steel industry. The company's offerings include the development, project planning, production, distribution, and service of laser-based measurement technology and accessories for rolling mills and application-oriented consulting.
More information about laser measurement systems for the steel industry.
About the Institute of Metal Forming (IMF)
The research and teaching focus of the institute is on the influence of forming technology on the material and the interaction between forming technology and property development in the formed material. All areas of forming technology - from forging technology to flat and wire rolling through to the numerical simulation of materials and processes - are covered.
More information about the IMF