Alstom and Stilfold deepen their innovative collaboration
The Stilfold method is based on bending and folding steel sheets in an origami-like process, reducing material waste and weight while providing flexibility and strength.
www.alstom.com
Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, is deepening its collaboration with the Swedish start-up Stilfold. Following the successful completion of a pilot project, Alstom and Stilfold are taking the next step to evaluate how the company’s unique curve-bending method can be applied to a wider range of train components and structural elements.
The Stilfold method is based on bending and folding steel sheets in a controlled, origami-like process. The technology opens up new ways of designing steel components, with the potential to both reduce climate impact and lower costs.
“Through the pilot project, we have been able to confirm that Stilfold is a highly promising technology with potential across several types of train components. The results allow us to take the next step and deepen our collaboration with a view to identifying solutions that are both more environmentally friendly and cost-effective”, said Ganesh Chandramouli, Head of Innovation, Strategy and Product Portfolio at Alstom Sweden.
A Stilfold-based structure requires less raw material compared to conventional manufacturing techniques, offering several advantages. The steel requires less processing, such as welding, which reduces both energy consumption and environmental impact. At the same time, material strength can be improved despite the reduced material usage, and structures can be made significantly lighter than with traditional methods.
“This is exactly the type of industrial validation for which we have built Stilfold. Taking this step together with Alstom from pilot to broader application confirms that our technology has the potential to redefine how steel components are constructed and produced”, said Jonas Nyvang, co-founder and CEO of Stilfold.
In the next phase of the collaboration, Stilfold and Alstom will analyse additional existing solutions and identify components where the Stilfold technology can have the greatest impact – for example through weight reduction, simplified manufacturing or reduced climate impact.
Innovation is a central part of Alstom’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and strengthen its competitiveness. Through the company’s Innovation Station in Sweden, and in collaboration with universities, research centres, start-ups and other industry partners, Alstom is building a strong innovation ecosystem in Sweden as well as across Europe.
ALSTOM™ is a protected trademark of the Alstom Group.
www.alstom.com
