SSAB’s University Challenge is an opportunity for students to present their ideas for new, innovative solutions using high-strength steels. Applications are now being accepted for the annual competition, with a deadline of October 15. Happening in conjunction with the Swedish Steel Prize competition, the winner of this year’s University Challenge will be announced in November in Stockholm, Sweden.

For the competition entry, students (groups or individuals) can submit a design study, a production method, a concept or an upgrade of an existing product. All entries must include the use of high strength steel. The proposal does not have to be ready for market, but it should have the potential.

“The University Challenge is an excellent opportunity for students to get feedback and recommendations on their design ideas,” says Monika Gutén, Executive Vice President and Head of Group HR, procurement and shared services at SSAB. “This is also a good event to network with international participants from all over the world.”

Experts will work together with students to refine their proposals, which may include estimates of strength, fatigue or other mechanical properties, as well as calculations of production efficiency and actual market potential, depending on the entry’s design and character.

Last year’s winner, Manuel Genzor from Spain, submitted a proposal for a lighter and safer chassis solution for an agricultural trailer, which could reduce chassis weight by more than 20%.

The contest rules are simple:

• Entries can be a design study, a production method, a concept or an upgrade of an existing product
• Entries must include the use of high strength steel
• It is not required that the entry is ready for market, but the proposal should be possible to realise
• All year groups within structural or mechanical engineering and material design programs may participate
• Entries can be from individuals or groups. Groups can have up to six (6) participants.

The winner will receive:

Participation in the Swedish Steel Prize Inspiration Seminars in Stockholm with an interview and presentation of their entry on the main stage. The winning entry will also be submitted to the Knowledge Service Center for further examination. Experts, together with the students, will provide refinement of the proposal, which may include estimates of strength, fatigue or other mechanical properties, as well as calculations of production efficiency and actual market potential, depending on the entry’s design and character.

For more information: Jan Kuoppa, Program Manager, SSAB Academy +46 243-711 23, [email protected]

Anna Östlund, Information Manager +46 243-711 15, [email protected]