Resource-wise solutions improve the competitiveness of the metal industry and support the circular economy
The metal industry is facing both cost pressures and new requirements for environmental sustainability. At the same time, the availability of raw materials has become more uncertain than before. In a new project, we are developing solutions for SMEs in the metal industry that reduce dependence on critical raw materials and strengthen the competitiveness of the Finnish metal industry.
The metal industry is a critical sector for Finland’s exports and security of supply, but its competitiveness has weakened due to challenges in raw material availability, cost pressures, and the demands of the green transition. The sector’s turnover has also declined significantly in recent years, highlighting the need for new solutions and rapid renewal. In the RELA – Resource-Wise Manufacturing project, we are developing solutions for SMEs in the sector that reduce dependence on critical and harmful raw materials, improve competitiveness, and support the circular economy.
Our research focuses on additive manufacturing methods, AI-assisted design of metal alloys, and real-time process automation. We utilize, among other things, metal 3D printing and new laser-based repair methods that can also be used directly in production environments.
We are developing machine learning-based control and monitoring systems that improve process reliability. We are also investigating how critical and hazardous materials can be replaced with sustainable alternatives. In addition, we are developing laser-based repair and coating methods that reduce material waste and enable the use of recycled hard metals, as well as binder jetting technology. Many of the solutions being developed are still rarely used even internationally, highlighting the ambition of the research.
New research data helps SMEs improve their competitiveness
By producing new research data on material microstructures, the effects of process parameters, and AI-based optimization methods, we support product development in manufacturing and enable the industrial adoption of new solutions. Our goal is to help especially SMEs respond to the transformation of the sector.
Our research results contribute to strengthening the competitiveness and exports of the Finnish metal industry, and our aim is particularly to support SMEs in responding to the ongoing transformation of the sector. Companies gain new knowledge and methods to meet tightening regulatory requirements and the need for industrial renewal. The solutions enable, for example, extending the lifecycle of components, reducing material waste, and shortening production downtime.
RELA – Resource-Wise Manufacturing
We are implementing the RELA – Resource-Wise Manufacturing project from 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2028 with a consortium consisting of 18 companies and four research organisations: Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK), Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK), Tampere University (TAU), and the University of Oulu (OY).
The project is funded by Business Finland.
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