Join our innovative team this summer and gain hands-on experience in the exciting field of material science. At Seco Tools in Fagersta we’re now offering a summer internship within the R&D Materials Development group.

Background and scope of the project

Composite materials, which consist of a hard ceramic phase, traditionally tungsten carbide, and a ductile metallic binder phase, most often cobalt, are commonly referred to as hard metals or cemented carbides. Cemented carbides are manufactured through a powder metallurgy processing route, which includes wet milling, spray drying, compaction, and sintering.

Cemented carbide has an attractive combination of properties, including high hardness and toughness. To tailor these properties for specific applications, adjustments can be made to factors such as grain size and binder content. Furthermore, additional elements and/or phases can be incorporated to enhance the desired properties in new material designs. This project aims to investigate the microstructural properties of cemented carbide materials. We seek to understand the relationship between microstructure and material properties. The results will help in developing materials with enhanced performance for various applications.

Work description

In this project, you investigate cemented carbides to further improve their properties through a material design approach. You work in our modern R&D facilities and gain knowledge and experience in materials design, as well as materials characterization using different techniques such as:

• Sample Preparation: Prepare material samples for microscopic analysis.
• Microscopy: Utilize optical and scanning electron microscopes to examine the samples.
• Image Analysis: Perform detailed image analysis to quantify microstructural characteristics.

Most of the work will take place in a laboratory environment and will primarily be conducted independently. Tasks include:

• Data Analysis: Analyze the results to identify key microstructural features.
• Report Writing: Document findings and prepare comprehensive reports on the results.

Student background

For this project, we’re looking for a highly motivated master’s student within the field of Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry or similar discipline. Previous experience of lab work such as, experience with sample preparation, basic knowledge of microscopy techniques is meritorious.

Other Requirements:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills for report writing and presenting findings.
• Proficiency in English.

Why Apply

• Hands-on Experience: Work with advanced equipment.
• Professional Development: Gain valuable skills in sample preparation, microstructure analysis, and report writing.
• Mentorship: Collaborate with experienced scientists and researchers who will guide you throughout the project.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to research that has real-world applications and the potential to make a significant impact in the field of material science.

Our Seco culture  

Seco employees across the globe share our family spirit, along with a passion for our customers and a personal commitment to ensure success in everything we do. For us, it’s also clear that our diversities form an amazing foundation for achieving great results. Visit our website, LinkedIn or Facebook to get to know us and our products further.   

Duration of project

The summer intern period lasts 2 months, starting Monday June 16th, 2025.

The location is in Fagersta.

Application

Please send in your application no later than February 10, 2025. Job ID: R0074823

Contact information

For further information about this position, please contact:

Stefan Olovsjö, Principal R&D Professional Material Design, +46 (0)70-302 03 73 or stefan.olovsjo@secotools.com

Heidi Pynnönen, Summer Recruitment, heidi.pynnonen@sandvik.com   

For more information about our recruitment process, please contact HR Services at hrservices.sweden@sandvik.com.  

At Seco Tools we develop and offer advanced products & solutions that make metal cutting easier. We work together with our customers to identify and implement the best solutions for their needs. The corporate culture empowers employees through shared values: Passion for our customers, Family Spirit, Personal commitment. Seco Tools has a presence in more than 75 countries and employs about 4000 people.