Seco in Fagersta is offering a master’s thesis project – an experimental study of sintering kinetics of recycled cemented carbide within the R&D Materials Development group focusing on material science, sintering kinetics, and material properties related to sintering.
Background and scope of the project
Circularity in the carbide industry is essential for reducing CO₂ emissions and lowering costs due to the limited resources of tungsten and cobalt. This project explores how increasing the proportion of recycled cemented carbide powder impacts the sintering process. Today, recycling worn-out carbide tools is well established, with cemented carbide powders containing up to 50–100% recycled material depending on grade and availability.
Work description:
-Magnetic properties (related WC grain size and carbon balance)
-Dimension (shrinkage control quality related)
-Hardness of the sintered cemented carbide (Standard Vickers method)
-Toughness of the cemented carbide (crack resistance by Palmqvist method)
The experimental factors are set up with the statistical method Design Of Experiments (DOE) either by the student or assisted by the supervisor at Seco. DOE software is Modde13 by Sartorius.
Conducted at the Fagersta production site, the study is experimental including analysis and supported by both the R&D team and production technicians.
We offer a great workplace with access to state-of-the-art R&D facilities and collaboration with a top-tier research team in Fagersta. You gain valuable knowledge and experience in materials science, including the use of tools like Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electron Backscatter Detector (EBSD) and various materials characterization techniques.
Your profile
We’re looking for a curious and technology driven student of MSc programs with a focus on material science or material chemistry. Knowledge in, for example, metallurgy, physics, mechanical engineering and similar skills are valuable. Previous experience with SEM and EBSD is advantageous, as well as analytical and mathematical skills. Acting in a global environment, your English skills must be good.
Duration of the project
This thesis project lasts for 22 weeks. The starting date is quite flexible, and preferably around January 19th, 2026. We offer you accommodation in Fagersta and you receive payment when finalizing the thesis. You’ll also present your findings both written and verbally.
Our Seco culture
At Seco, we're united by a spirit of collaboration and a shared curiosity to learn and grow. We take responsibility for our actions, stay focused on our customers, and believe in winning together. For us, it’s also clear that our diversities form an amazing foundation for achieving great results. Curious about our workplace and benefits? Read more on our website. You’re also welcome to visit our LinkedIn or Facebook to get to know us and our products further.
Contact information
For further information about this position, please contact Ioannis Arvanitidis, R&D Expert (PhD), at +46 (0)70-556 67 69 or ioannis.arvanitidis@secotools.com
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How to apply
Send us your application no later than December 10th, 2025. Click apply and include your resume and cover letter in English. Please note that we don’t accept applications by e-mail. Job ID: R0085152.
For more information about our recruitment process, please contact HR Services at hrservices.sweden@sandvik.com.