Application of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly: Development of a Multifeedstock Biodiesel Processor

Abstract

Design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) is the method for process and cost optimization of subsystems, whole system as well as the entire manufacturing process. While minimizing assembly operations, it helps in eliminating component redundancy, facilitates assembly and manufacturing of products that are cost effective in terms of material requirements, parts production, labor and overhead. In this study, a multi feedstock biodiesel processor with intelligent systems for control and monitoring was developed using the principles of design for manufacturing and assembly. It consists of a 2 kW variable speed sparkless electric motor, reaction chamber, a thermostatically controlled 3 kW electric heater, saw dust insulation, ball valve, thermostat, funnel, a stirrer of diameter 20 mm with five blades that rotate in the reaction chamber and two baffles to control the splashing. The stirrer is driven by the electric motor. A 2 mm thick galvanized steel was used in the fabrication of the reaction chamber because of its high resistance to corrosion. This work provides a design framework for both small and large scale biodiesel plant for industrial, laboratory and experimental purposes. In addition, the assembly operations of the processor's components via the principles of DFMA were simplified to reduce ambiguity and redundancy. Hence, the overall processor is cost effective in terms of material requirements, parts production, labor and overhead.

Design and Characterization of a Low-Cost and Efficient Torsional Spring for ES-RSEA

“…DFM is a design approach that aims to simplify, optimize, and refine product designs for easy manufacturing and to achieve a better final product at a lower cost. The optimization process in DFM offers several optimal solutions for the manufacturing process and selects the best solution among them [ 28 , 29 ]. DFM considers the manufacturing difficulties at the product development stage, which reduces overall manufacturing cost and improves product reliability and quality, and reduces complexity without sacrificing standards [ 30 ].…”

Assessment of Water Quality for Irrigation of Some Selected Soils/Areas in Yola, Adamawa State, North East, Nigeria

“…Therefore, The quality of irrigation water influences soil properties, nutrient contents, and availability for plant uptake and subsequent utilization (Suarez et al, 2011, Rasyid et al 2016. However, the various water sources used for irrigation in large volumes have a significant impact on soil properties and the plants being produced (Ilesanmi et al, 2019). The chemical contents of this water depend on its source, which may release certain nutrient elements in higher concentrations.…”