en 
With a flexible and versatile equipment we save both time and money, says Marko Kokkonen, Test Development Engineer at IKEA in Älmhult. After careful research, the choice fell on the LTM 3kN from ZwickRoell.
IKEA has a strong ambition to do its part to tackle climate change and other issues. As part of its sustainability strategy, it will increase the proportion of recycled materials in the products it sells. The recycled material has unknown properties that need to be investigated.
To develop the properties of the recycled materials needed for IKEA's product development, the company is investing in ZwickRoell's LTM equipment that can perform material testing in axial and torsional loading. The new material data obtained from this testing will be used to make calculations in computer systems where new products are designed. The computer systems will then calculate how strong the product will be, thus enabling product development digitally and virtually. The prototypes and materials developed are also subjected to physical tests. This process saves both time and money for IKEA.
Previously, it was only possible to perform static tests until the sample broke. With the LTM, more advanced testing can be done, as the machine is flexible and versatile. It is possible to perform mechanical tests and get detailed results that can be used to modify materials to meet the purpose of the product. Developing the right material and design for the right application thus becomes more efficient.
We have high standards for our development department and carried out a thorough feasibility study. Through good cooperation with ZwickRoell's demonstration laboratory in Germany, which was responsive and accommodating, we were able to make an informed decision. Another important factor is the strong local support and service provided by ZRS Testing System," concludes Marko.