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Sumitomo Metals Introduces New Technology in Corporate R&D Labs

12/09/2011 - Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. opened the research and laboratory building at its Corporate Research & Development Laboratories in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, installing cutting-edge ultrahigh resolution electron microscopes among other technology.

Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. opened the research and laboratory building at its Corporate Research & Development Laboratories in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture. Sumitomo Metals completed construction of the facilities on October 19.

Sumitomo Metals has installed cutting-edge ultrahigh resolution electron microscopes, which enable the researchers to observe the behavior of every single atom in the grain boundaries while distinguishing which element the atom is in real time. By making use of the scientific knowledge obtained here in the design of new materials, the company believes it will speed up the development of new materials such as high-grade oil well pipes that can withstand high-temperature and highly corrosive environments.
 
The laboratory building contains material analysis facilities featuring equipment that can analyze at the atomic level what the substances of materials are composed of and what degree of defects exist.
 
By adopting a glass-sided open environment within the laboratory building, the company aimed to create a laboratory “tour course” that will enable customers to experience actual research in close proximity. Researchers will carry out multilevel examination and analysis of macro-phenomena (cracks and corrosion, etc.) at the micro, nano, and atomic levels and clarify the nature of phenomena together with customers.