Eco-efficiency of manufacturing processes: A grinding case

Abstract

Despite increased attention on energy-efficiency in manufacturing, other resources used as well as the quality performance of manufacturing processes have to be taken into account. This paper presents an eco-efficiency approach to evaluating energy as well as resource efficiency of manufacturing processes. The case of a grinding process is used to demonstrate the potential of the approach since e.g. coolant and dressing have an impact on quality performance and the environment. Based on the analysis, strategies for improving eco-efficiency of manufacturing processes are proposed. © 2012 CIRP.