Evaluation of Process Chains for an Overall Optimization of Manufacturing Energy Efficiency

Process chain evaluation for an overall optimization of energy efficiency in manufacturing—The welding case

“…Facing the given need for raising energy efficiency in production, a method for evaluating process chains has been introduced within Section 3 and [8]. This paper now extents the insight by describing the calculation of a key element, the process-dependent normative energy indicator.…”

“…Furthermore, since most factories are producing a mix of different products, an energetically optimal process chain for only one product is hardly to be implemented under economical sound conditions. The process chain evaluation method therefore is enhanced for defining factory wide solutions, using a Sustainable Technology Roadmap approach, as described in [8]. For coping with the current situation of environmental threats, in the future solely energy efficiency improvements will not be sufficient for saving the Earth's climate.…”

“…We are using Weinert's work [12] as a basis for calculating the energy demand as normative values. This approach is a basis of the research that is being presented within this and former publications [8]. As an example, the energetic profile of a gas-metal-arc welding (GMAW) application was analyzed and is being described.…”

“…The activities to improve transparency as one prerequisite for raising energy efficiency in production are manifold and address manufacturing on different levels. In [8] the methodology for energy profiling was outlined, so that the data for energetically analyzing process chains could be collected, processed and made available. Further work on the shop floor analyzing different manufacturing process technologies and equipment revealed a high complexity in the interaction of different systems on the shop floor, and should not be underestimated in consequence.…”

Comprehensive Improvement of Industrial Energy Efficiency: Pilot Case in a European Rolling Stock Factory

“…milling a work piece as preparation for a joining process. Additionally large variety of secondary energy consumers is required, including maintenance and transport operations and technical building services (TBS) [5].…”