Unlocking Sustainability in Machining Industry: An Overview of the ToolTrace Project
Are you intrigued by how digital technology can work hand-in-hand with human behaviour to make metalworking more sustainable? Then the ToolTrace Project is right up your alley. This groundbreaking initiative focuses on small and medium-sized businesses in the metalworking industry, aiming to make the recycling of used tools as efficient as possible.
Here's how it works: The project develops a cutting-edge decision support system that enables machine operators—key players in waste management—to contribute to better recycling practices. What makes ToolTrace unique? It goes beyond just using digital ID tags to track tools and materials. The project recognizes that tech solutions alone won't solve the issue; human factors play a huge role in the success of recycling efforts.
Why does this matter? Right now, 95% of used carbide inserts in metalworking can be recycled. But, due to the lack of tracking, we're losing valuable materials, which means a financial loss and, more importantly, harmful environmental effects. ToolTrace tackles this by focusing on both advanced tracking technology and understanding the behaviours and motivations of machine operators.
The ToolTrace Project not only bears significant implications for the global sustainability agenda but is also particularly salient for Sweden's industrial sector. The project promises to revolutionize the way small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden manage waste and utilize resources, effectively setting a new standard for responsible manufacturing within the country. By fostering improved waste management behaviours at the operator level, ToolTrace is aligned with Sweden's ambition to be a leader in the circular economy. For local communities, the project enhances environmental stewardship and contributes to long-term ecological balance, aspects that are integral to the Swedish ethos of sustainable living. Overall, the ToolTrace Project is a vital cog in Sweden's machinery for sustainable development, and its success could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives globally.
Participating organisations
Luleå University of Technology: www.ltu.se
Jönköping University: www.ju.se
RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden): www.ri.se
Sandvik Coromant: www.sandvik.coromant.com
Falks Metall: www.falksmetall.se
Minec Produktion: www.minec.se
Bröderna Carlsson: www.brodernacarlsson.se
Gnosjö Automatsvarvning: www.gnosjoautomatsvarvning.se
Contact
Mohamed Elnourani Elhag Abdelmageed
- Doctoral Student
- 0920-492397
- mohamed.elnourani@ltu.se
- Mohamed Elnourani Elhag Abdelmageed
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