Closed-loop production systems

Abstract

This chapter discusses the closed-loop aspects of production systems in the context of green and sustainable manufacturing. Specifically, we consider the life cycle of production systems from design and construction through use, decommissioning, and recycling or repurposing. We discuss resource and economic efficiency and present a series of examples of life cycle analysis of manufacturing systems. We also describe how to design systems for reduced life cycle impact. Examples include comparisons of different machine tool systems, process parameter optimization, consumable utilization, plant services, and plant design.