Development Of New Production Processes Research Articles

Life cycle analysis of a combined electrolysis and methanation reactor for methane production

The need to decarbonize industrial processes and to increase the utilization of renewable resources, either energy and raw materials, has led to the development of new production processes. The focus of this paper is to evaluate the environmental impacts of an innovative 1 kW pilot plant for methane production, following the life cycle thinking approach. The process is based on the coupling of an alkaline water electrolysis, which generates syngas using a carbon source, with a methanation reactor that converts the syngas to methane. The life cycle assessment (LCA) takes into account the pilot plant construction materials, electricity and reactants used, for a functional model of a mole of methane produced per hour of operation. Data from the pilot plant, in particular reaction conversions, were used complemented with data from the literature and inventory databases. Energy and the construction materials used to build the experimental unit are the main factors influencing the environmental performance. Several scenarios were defined varying the electricity source and the carbon source, showing the results that the energy source is more relevant to reduce the process environmental impacts. The results can be used to scale-up and to better implement the combined electrolysis methanation process in industrial practice.

Statistical Modeling and Monitoring of Geometrical Deviations in Complex Shapes With Application to Additive Manufacturing

The industrial development of new production processes like additive manufacturing (AM) is making available novel types of complex shapes that go beyond traditionally manufactured geometries and 2.5D free-form surfaces. New challenges must be faced to characterize, model and monitor the natural variability of such complex shapes, since previously proposed methods based on parametric models are not applicable. The present study proposes a methodology that applies to complex shapes represented in the form of triangulated meshes, which is the current standard for AM data format. The method combines a novel bi-directional way to model the deviation between the reconstructed geometry (e.g., via X-ray computed tomography) and the nominal geometry (i.e., the originating 3D model) with a profile monitoring approach for the detection of out-of-control shapes. A paradigmatic example consisting of an egg-shaped trabecular shell representative of real parts produced via AM is used to illustrate the methodology and to test its effectiveness in detecting real geometrical distortions.

Планирование пространственного развития регионов по принципу экосистемы

The article presents the position of the authors on the study of the relevant scientific and practical problem of planning, perspective spatial regional development by means of changing the structure of regional economy to a model based on the ecosystem principle. The purpose of the study is to plan the spatial development of regions in the future periods of ecosystem forming. The solution of significant problems mentioned above in the context of ensuring the goal of spatial development determines the relevance of the research topic. The elements of the dialectics of interrelations and principles of development, the method of synthesis, deduction, the statistical method (when determining the quantitative aspect of processes and phenomena during the transition to a new quality), natural general economic laws (for the formation of the development of effective spatial regional policy in the future) are used. The analysis of the features of the transition of a person and his knowledge from the factual paradigm of knowledge accumulation to the methodological one is made. Innovation processes as the basis of economic development arranged according to the principle of an ecosystem are studied. A philosophical methodological approach of a new axiomatic spatial development of regions based on new ontologies (from one to different, from different to harmony, from harmony into a new whole) is suggested. This approach forms a collective image of an ecosystem. The conceptual foundations of the transfer of the regional economy to an ecosystem through the inversion of control through modeling (production processes, resource potential) are revealed. The principles of the ecosystem are formed as the highest form of the social and economic environment for the development of new production processes against the background of the development of the human mind. New approaches to the transition of production processes from competition to cooperation have been formed, transforming the management system from a subjective activity to an objective one.

European Union Legislation Overview about Used Vegetable Oils Recycling: The Spanish and Italian Case Studies

The employment of used vegetable oils (UVOs) as raw materials in key sectors as energy production or bio-lubricant synthesis represents one of the most relevant priorities in the European Union (EU) normative context. In many countries, the development of new production processes based on the circular economy model, as well as the definition of future energy and production targets, involve the utilization of wastes as raw material. In this context, the main currently applied EU regulations are presented and discussed. As in the EU, the general legislative process consists of the definition in each State Member of specific legislation, which transposes the EU indications. Two relevant countries are herein considered: Italy and Spain. Through the analysis of the conditions required in both countries for UVOs’ collection, disposal, storage, and recycling, a wide panorama of the current situation is provided.

Development of new production processes for aluminum

Development of new production processes for aluminum

Simulation-Based Analysis of the Potential of Alternative Fuels towards Reducing CO2 Emissions from Aviation

The mid-term framework of global aviation is shaped by air travel demand growth rates of 2–5% p.a. and ambitious targets to reduce aviation-related CO2 emissions by up to 50% until 2050. Alternative jet fuels such as bio- or electrofuels can be considered as a potential means towards low-emission aviation. While these fuels offer significant emission reduction potential, their market success depends on manifold influencing factors like the maturity of the production technology or the development of the price of conventional jet fuel. To study the potential for adoption of alternative jet fuels in aviation and the extent to which alternative fuels can contribute to the reduction targets, we deploy a System Dynamics approach. The results indicate that the adoption of alternative fuels and therefore their potential towards low-emissions aviation is rather limited in most scenarios considered since current production processes do not allow for competitive prices compared to conventional jet fuel. This calls for the development of new production processes that allow for economic feasibility of converting biomass or hydrogen into drop-in fuels as well as political measures to promote the adoption of alternative fuels.

Microstructure control of pure iron by utilizing metal cutting method

A microstructure control process to produce ultrafine grains by using metal cutting technique was reported. Pure iron was used as test material, and large shear strain (γ = 4.4) was applied to a cut chip. After cutting operation, the cut chips were subjected to heat treatment in Ar gas atmosphere. Microstructure of the chips was analyzed by SEM-EBSD system. It was confirmed that ultrafine grains were generated by annealing at 500 °C. Also, mechanical properties of ultrafine grained iron were investigated. These results indicated possibility of development of new production process of ultrafine grained materials.

Effect of strain rate and temperature on press forming of extruded WPC profiles

Wood-plastic composites (WPCs) are experiencing rapid market growth in manufacturing industries. In view of the attractive qualities of this material and on-going development of new production processes and post-production processes, great potential for widespread utilization of WPCs clearly exists. This paper evaluates the temperature effects on forming of an extruded WPC material in a post-production process. The press-forming process described in this work is used to form a pre-determined profile shape for the final product. After preliminary tests to find suitable temperature ranges, a diverse set of material behavior tests were conducted on pre-heated sheets of the WPC material. Numerical simulation was also performed using LS-DYNA software to evaluate formability of the WPC. Simulated and experimental values were in good agreement, indicating the feasibility of using the simulation approach for preliminary evaluation of formability of WPCs.

Feasibility Assessment of a Wood-Plastic Composite Post-Production Process: Formability

Wood-plastic composites (WPCs) – one of a number of promising classes of materials in the manufacturing industries – are experiencing rapid market growth. However, the favorable characteristics of this material and the development of new production processes and post-production processes suggest even greater potential for utilization of WPCs. This paper evaluates the formability of an extruded WPC material comprising nearly 45% wood fiber, 50% thermoplastic, and 5% of other additives in a novel extrusion-based post-production process. The press-forming process described in this work is used to form and cut the pre-determined profile shape to obtain the final product. After preliminary tests to determine the suitable temperature range, dimensions, and roughness range for a post-extrusion hot-pressing process of a sample WPC product, a diverse set of product quality tests were then conducted on pre-heated sheets of WPC material using forming tools attached to a hydraulic press. The forming process had high accuracy with respect to dimensional precision and acceptable repeatability. The forming process also reduced the surface roughness of the material. The test results clearly demonstrated the dependence of final product quality on the quality of the original extruded WPC profiles used, e.g., with respect to the thickness variation of the material.

Comparison between two pharmaceutical production processes in a French regional cancer center

Summary Introduction In order to reduce outpatient-waiting delays in oncology departments, there has been development of new production processes. This study aimed to determine the impact of three different production organizations (nominative extemporaneous preparations, anticipated preparations, and non-nominative dose-banded preparations), with or without analytical control, on outpatient chemotherapy production times, in a French regional cancer center. Materials and methods For the three organizations, we measured the global and detailed production times of the preparations, during three distinct periods, and compared them. Results With an analytical control, anticipated nominative preparations and non-nominative dose-banded preparations reduced waiting delays by 29 and 19 minutes, respectively, compared to extemporaneous nominative preparations, and by 12 and 9 minutes, respectively, without analytical control. Discussion Anticipated nominative preparations and non-nominative dose standardized preparations allow reducing time dispensation, even with analytical control. Conclusion Implementing these new production processes could reduce outpatient-waiting delays in oncology departments.

Purchasing's role in global new product-process development projects

Current international business conditions dictate companies placing more emphasis on developing innovation-oriented as compared to cost-oriented supply chains. This includes adopting a cooperative approach to new product-process development (NPPD) with the purchasing function playing a key role, a difficult transformation for many firms. A descriptive case study is utilized to describe how disparate companies from different parts of the world were able to achieve the organizational changes necessary for a favorable outcome. Important managerial issues are examined and knowledge is presented concerning the why and how aspects of collaborative NPPD in the context of a global chain. The findings indicate that appropriate supplier selection, implementing a project management approach, generating trust, and utilizing effective communication methods are among the keys to success. The paper provides the impetus for increased adoption of collaborative NPPD and also offers stimulation for additional research.

The effects of R&D tax credits on patenting and innovations

Norwegian business spending on R&D is low by OECD standards. To stimulate business R&D, in 2002 the Norwegian government introduced a tax-based incentive, SkatteFUNN. We analyze the effects of SkatteFUNN on the likelihood of innovating and patenting. Using a rich database for Norwegian firms, we find that projects receiving tax credits result in the development of new production processes and to some extent the development of new products for the firm. Firms that collaborate with other firms are more likely to be successful in their innovation activities. However, the scheme does not appear to contribute to innovations in the form of new products for the market or patenting.

Influence of silicon carbide filters in cast iron composite brake blocks on brake performance and development of a production process

Cast iron composite brake blocks, which include silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic filters, have been developed for increased speeds in conventional trains. However, it is assumed that they would cause thermal loads to increase because filters in them are much harder than cast iron. It is necessary to decrease them on wheel treads while maintaining the high friction coefficient characteristics during high-speed travel. Cast iron composite brake blocks in which the number of filters and the area fraction of SiC in the filter are varied have been tested on a full-scale dynamometer. They have been developed to provide excellent brake performance at high-speeds even if the area fraction of SiC on the friction surface is decreased. In addition, with the development of new production process, it has been possible to mass-produce cast iron composite brake blocks without increasing the length of the production process. Furthermore, it has been found that the brake block temperature is related to the friction coefficient and that SiC inclusion in the brake block prevents an increase in temperature and increases the friction coefficient.

Retail Control of Manufacturers' Product-Related Activities

Retailers have begun to leverage their position as brand guarantor within the food channel and, through their own brand products, play an increasing role in the provision of safe, quality foods to the consumer. In the process, retailers have internalised many of the activities formerly undertaken by food manufacturers such as branding, product and market development. However, in the absence of their own manufacturing resources, retailers are dependent on shaping food manufacturers' decisions concerning production activities. This paper investigates the industry, product and relationship characteristics that determine retailers' power over food manufacturers' product-related activities. These activities include the product specifications that manufacturers work with, the production processes they employ, the development of new production processes and the selection of their input suppliers.

Сети и хозяйственная жизнь

This paper gives a critical review of the four main research lines in network analysis. Authors begin with the discussion of an informal aspect of the networks - the role of the social ties in job search, mobilization of collective action and information transferring. After that the authors turn to the analysis of the more developed and formal direction of the network analysis, devoted to the networks and power. The next step is the consideration of the de-evolution of the big vertically centralized integrated firm and its division in complicated relation networks. Finally the paper deals with production networks where the authors underline the importance of space decentralized joined production in the development of new production processes and commercialization of new products. The paper focuses on the studies that demonstrated the main role of the networks in economic life and those studies that complement to each other.

New materials and production technologies for innovative lightweight constructions

Modern concepts for lightweight construction not only make necessary new and advanced materials but also the development of new production processes and new processing strategies is obligatory in order to be adapted successfully. This paper presents some present research topics of the Chair of Manufacturing Technology that are of interest for an innovative lightweight construction nowadays and in the future. These are laser-assisted bending and roll forming as an example for new production technologies and forming of aluminium tailored blanks or intrinsic aluminium blanks using a local heat treatment as an example for new processing strategies. Finally, the potentials for lightweight construction of a special class of materials, aluminium foams, are discussed.

Dip coating

Wood-plastic composites (WPCs) are experiencing rapid market growth in manufacturing industries. In view of the attractive qualities of this material and on-going development of new production processes and post-production processes, great potential for widespread utilization of WPCs clearly exists. This paper evaluates the temperature effects on forming of an extruded WPC material in a post-production process. The press-forming process described in this work is used to form a pre-determined profile shape for the final product. After preliminary tests to find suitable temperature ranges, a diverse set of material behavior tests were conducted on pre-heated sheets of the WPC material. Numerical simulation was also performed using LS-DYNA software to evaluate formability of the WPC. Simulated and experimental values were in good agreement, indicating the feasibility of using the simulation approach for preliminary evaluation of formability of WPCs.

Disinvesting in America? the legacy of consumption policy in the 1980s

This article traces patterns of consumption, low productivity, debt accumulation and slow economic growth. Rather than calling for an increased emphasis on market and corporate incentives, the author calls for increased public investment. He favors particularly increases in scientific research and development and technology, in public works to rebuild the infrastructure, and calls for a public administration associated with increased investment in government. The New Deal and the Great Society established the foundations of the public policy and administration of consumption—income transfer, entitlement, loan, loan guarantee, credit, subsidy, tax expenditure, and related programs designed to maintain or improve the income levels and social and economic well being of many elements of the United States population. Such programs now constitute approximately 50 percent of the federal budget. In the late 1980s, the United States entered into a new international economic, technological, and demographic order in...

Vitamin Tech Center: Scale-up als Herausforderung

The task of process development is mainly the generation of data required for the construction of a production facility. This consists in both the development of new production processes and the improvement of existing ones. Profitability and product quality, along with safety and ecological compatibility, play an essential role in the design of the process. In the new Vitamin Tech Center the development begins in the development lab by selecting the optimal procedure for the scale-up, followed by mini-plant and pilot-plant activities. In the mini-plant, modular test facilities capable of being scaled up are installed on a miniature scale. Unit operations of various technical processes are usually run continuously and the equipment is mainly constructed of glass. The pilot-plant equipment consists of a state-of-the-art facilities made of steel, alloys and glass-lined steel and corresponds to a small production facility. The amount of material processed in the pilot-plant is about five hundred times that of the development lab. To support all these activities, laboratories for chemical analysis, unit operations, physical property data and materials testing are available.