ENABLE aims to train early-stage researchers in what is referred to as an outstanding challenge for the future of manufacturing: developing novel solutions for forecasting and mastering processes relevant for all factories using metallic alloys. ENABLE proposes a complete rethink of the usual process simulation method by developing innovative multiscale, multi-physical and multi-level advanced (TRL 1 to 8) simulation. To extend the benefits to a wide range of industrial actors, the simulation will be carried out on several widely-used processes: Machining, Friction Stir Welding and Additive Manufacturing. The most popular metals in industry (Titanium, Nickel based and Aluminium alloys) will be chosen for the scientific investigation. ENABLE will lead to the development of new tools that are better suited to production (reduced premature wear, increased service life, improved tools, etc.) and will reduce production time and thereby production costs. A group of 9 ESR will be introduced to dynamic approaches to exploiting advances in fundamental research towards innovative applications. To “enable” this vision, each trainee will have access to closely integrated complementarities and world-class expertise in mechanical science, materials science, computer science/numerical methods, state-of-the-art scattering, advanced equipment and significant computational resources. Additional cross-disciplinary training and a strong involvement on the part of the 12 Industries and SMEs and research centres will provide the students with transferable skills and complementary competencies which will improve their research training and enhance their future employability. The proposed project has been co-constructed by academics and industries in line with today’s markets requirements and taking into account the “knowledge triangle philosophy” focusing on a strong interaction between research, education and innovation, which are key drivers of a knowledge-based society.

In rapid solid-state transformations, diffusion kinetics in the bulk are low in both, growing and parent phases, creating a global deviation from equilibrium of the system. However, interface non-equilibrium mechanisms also take place, such as solute drag and attachment kinetics. The energies dissipated by the migration of the interface and the transfer of solute through the interface have to account for these local mechanisms. This leads to a higher amount of undercooling during quenching and a distinct deviation from local equilibrium at the interface. As consequence, a wide variety of solid-state transformations and types of microstructures can be observed as a function of undercooling. The purpose of the project is understanding the influence of the thermodynamic state of the interface on transformation mechanisms and phase selections. The transitions under focus are (massive-type transformation) from diffusion controlled to interface-diffusion controlled and (martensitic-type transformation) from interface-diffusion controlled to interface controlled. The conditions at the interface are characterized analyzing its thermodynamic state by combining experiment and simulation. Controlled pulse heating experiments that allow for an in-situ, high resolution measurement of T-t curves and their assignment to local microstructures as well as high resolution electron microscopy/spectroscopy are employed. A thermodynamic and kinetic model that considers velocity-dependent phase equilibria and interface thermodynamics is developed. Being fully coupled with Calphad databases, simulations of the experiments are performed to reach direct one-to-one comparisons. The combination of the experimental and numerical investigations is the foundation for this collaborative project and its final goal: revisit interpretations of the transitions between solid-state transformations involving massive type interface diffusion controlled reactions.