Dornfeld, David; Wright, Paul

Strategies to reduce energy demand in manufacturing processes are becoming necessary due to the growing concern of carbon emissions and the expected rise of electricity prices over time. To guide the development of these strategies, the results of a life-cycle energy consumption analysis of milling machine tools are first highlighted to show the effect of several factors such as degree of automation, manufacturing environment, transportation, material inputs, and facility inputs on environmental impact. An overview of design and operation strategies to reduce energy consumption is thereafter presented including the implementation of a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), a process parameter selection strategy, and a web-based energy estimation tool.

2007

Abstract

Environmental issues in manufacturing are receiving increasing attention as part of the global concerns about environmental impacts and energy efficiency. This paper outlines a strategy using the “technology wedge” concept to address the improvement of manufacturing processes towards the goal of green manufacturing. After defining the nature of the wedges and how to assess their impact, an example of a potential wedge technology is reviewed. The wedge concept can be useful in assessing directions for new process developments in manufacturing as well as improving existing processes.

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Laboratory for Manufacturing and Sustainability