ENGS 89/90 Reports
Year of Graduation
2024
Sponsor
Additive Manufacturing Green Trade Association
Project Advisor
Hui Fang
Instructor
Solomon Diamond
Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2024
Abstract
This report presents the outcomes of a case study focused on exploring the potential of Additive Manufacturing (AM) to address challenges associated with equipment maintenance and life cycles for a major global retailer. The project centered on the issue of replacing a critical machine component frequently subject to wear and traditionally sourced from external suppliers. Such dependency poses several risks including the possibility of discontinued parts, extended procurement lead times, high part costs, and associated environmental footprint. The study evaluated the compatibility of AM for producing this component using six common AM materials (PLA, ABS, Nylon, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Nylon, Zirconium Ceramic, and Polyjet’s acrylic-like Vero), conducted durability assessments following ASTM standards, sustainability analysis, and performed a comprehensive techno-economic analysis. Findings indicate that AM can enhance sustainability measures, enable in-house manufacturing of essential parts, reduce lead times for replacements, and lower overall equipment lifecycle costs.
Dartmouth Digital Commons Citation
Burden, Isaac; Dessalegn, Raselas; Henry, Jace; Shum, Anna; and Twiss, MacCallum, "Case Study: Techno-Economic Assessment of Additive Manufacturing for Equipment Maintenance" (2024). ENGS 89/90 Reports. 94.
https://digitalcommons.dartmouth.edu/engs89_90/94
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