SWE-CIC is expanding on multiple fronts!

The latest collaboration meeting at Luleå University of Technology confirmed what we’ve been seeing, SWE-CIC is expanding on multiple fronts. The momentum within the Swedish composite industry is stronger than ever, and we are thrilled to welcome three new members to our network: Nordtool, Sandström Innovation and Compositbalkonger.

During the meeting, Ulf Westerberg from Piteå Science Park and David Engberg from RISE Research Institutes of Sweden shared insights from their visit to Composite Technology in Trollhättan last December. Their key takeaway?

Sweden’s composite industry is in a strong growth phase, particularly within aviation, defense, and energy.
This trend is already visible in the expansion of Hitachi Energy, which recently acquired a facility in Öjebyn to scale up production. This investment will create 100 new jobs, reinforcing the region’s role as a hub for advanced composites.

At the same time, RISE is seeing increased demand for research and development within fiber composites and is now planning to recruit additional specialists.

The meeting also provided valuable insights from Karl Arvidsson, PhD candidate at Luleå University of Technology, who presented his research on electrical insulation properties, conducted in close collaboration with Hitachi Energy.

In addition, Jonatan Hovanta, an engineering student, shared his thesis project, which focuses on developing an automotive component. His presentation sparked an engaging discussion, enriched by Composite Services, a company with extensive experience in the automotive sector.

The day concluded with a guided tour of the university’s lab facilities, where participants got an inside look at ongoing research and cutting-edge technology development.

A big thank you to Patrik Fernberg and Luleå University of Technology for their warm hospitality.

With new partnerships, expanding research, and increased industry demand, SWE-CIC is shaping the future of fiber composites. Stay tuned for more updates.

Photo: Johanna Fond