BILASURF | Bio-inspired laser functionalization of complex 3D industrial surfaces

Summary

Surface functionalisation is present in a wide range of sectors, improving the performance of multiple components and systems in many applications. However, when considering the application of such functionalisation in complex industrial parts, several challenges must be faced. The difficulty of reaching all surfaces of complex 3D parts is significative, especially in those with considerable size and weight. At the same time, uncertainty about the regulatory compliance of functionalised parts in some sectors makes a straightforward integration of this process more difficult. As a result, this limits the potential of some companies in terms of opening up new markets or attaining a competitive edge. Additionally, the creation of functional surfaces has traditionally relied on processes such as chemical reactions and/or the complete coating of the native surfaces (e.g. aerofoils). Due to their very nature, these processes generate unwanted by-products thereby leaving a significant environmental footprint, which go against the “do no significant harm” principle of The European Green Deal.

In order to avoid these setbacks, a new functionalising process for complex 3D shaped parts in which the environmental footprint is reduced and where new guidelines are generated to complement the manufacturing standards of target sectors, could be a game changer.

BILASURF aims at developing and integrating a process for high-rate laser functionalization of complex 3D surfaces using tailored designed bio inspired riblets to reduce friction and improve the environmental footprint of industrial parts, assuring a high throughput with the help of inline monitoring capabilities. This solution can provide European industry with a key tool to use a more efficient and environmentally friendly manufacturing process.

More information & hyperlinks
Web resources: https://www.bilasurf.com/ - https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101091623
http://www.bilasurf.com - BILASURF webpage, includes all the details of the project
Start date: 01-01-2023
End date: 31-12-2025
Total budget - Public funding: 5 601 669,00 Euro - 5 601 668,00 Euro
Cordis data

Original description

Surface functionalisation is present in a wide range of sectors, improving the performance of multiple components and systems in many applications. However, when considering the application of such functionalisation in complex industrial parts, several challenges must be faced. The difficulty of reaching all surfaces of complex 3D parts is significative, especially in those with considerable size and weight. At the same time, uncertainty about the regulatory compliance of functionalised parts in some sectors makes a straightforward integration of this process more difficult. As a result, this limits the potential of some companies in terms of opening up new markets or attaining a competitive edge. Additionally, the creation of functional surfaces has traditionally relied on processes such as chemical reactions and/or the complete coating of the native surfaces (e.g. aerofoils). Due to their very nature, these processes generate unwanted by-products thereby leaving a significant environmental footprint, which go against the “do no significant harm” principle of The European Green Deal. In order to avoid these setbacks, a new functionalising process for complex 3D shaped parts in which the environmental footprint is reduced and where new guidelines are generated to complement the manufacturing standards of target sectors, could be a game changer. BILASURF aims at developing and integrating a process for high-rate laser functionalization of complex 3D surfaces using tailored designed bio inspired riblets to reduce friction and improve the environmental footprint of industrial parts, assuring a high throughput with the help of inline monitoring capabilities. This solution can provide European industry with a key tool to use a more efficient and environmentally friendly manufacturing process.

Status

SIGNED

Call topic

HORIZON-CL4-2022-TWIN-TRANSITION-01-02

Update Date

23-01-2023
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Comment:

Uncertainty about the regulatory compliance of functionalised parts in some sectors makes a straightforward integration of this process more difficult.

Result items:

This demonstrator will consist in a hydro turbine in which specific parts will be texturised with laser, with the aim to improvoe its efficency.

Result items:

Industrial fans. This demonstrator will consist in a fan in which its wheel, manufactured using injection moulding, will include surface riblets to increase its efficiency, reduce its energy use and, if possible, reduce the noise emitted when the fan is working.

Result items:

Additionally, the creation of functional surfaces has traditionally relied on processes such as chemical reactions and/or the complete coating of the native surfaces (e.g. aerofoils). Due to their very nature, these processes generate unwanted by-products thereby leaving a significant environmental footprint, which go against the “do no significant harm” principle of The European Green Deal.