R&D is one of the most important activities conducted by the Åkers Group. Using development processes that enable us to comply with our customers’ needs, our R&D efforts ensure that we can always maintain a competitive edge.
As well as developing new rolls, our R & D process also includes mill integration and unit lifetime studies, product performance and product integrity. Reporting practices are based upon a set of predetermined phases which ensure that we can reliably move a new product from design into the market.

We have two research centers, one in Sweden where we develop technologies for the manufacture of new kinds of cast rolls,
and one in Belgium where we work with
forged rolls.

Both are equipped to tackle the most advanced design projects. In all, the Åkers Group has seven metallurgical laboratories and some 25 technical staff who are involved in all aspects of the R&D process.

R&D strategy and goals
Our R&D strategy rests on a number of specific goals. Firstly to maintain a leadership in product performance and product integrity. Secondly, we aim to run R&D programs for all the product applications we supply including projects covering research status, development status, market trials and acceptance status. And thirdly, we work to introduce new, unique products and grades to gain or maintain a sustainable leading position.