Scania plans to use remanufactured parts to cut emissions

Scania aims to cut the emissions it produces in vehicle production by utilising remanufactured parts on its main assembly line in Sweden.

In what the manufacturer says is a world first for heavy vehicle OEMs, the iReGear research project saw a new gearbox built on the production line using remanufactured parts. The test saw 50% less new parts used and a 45% reduction in carbon emissions, compared to building a brand-new unit.

The remanufactured gearbox is subjected to the same rigorous testing, to make sure it meets the quality and performance standards of new parts.

While replacement rates during gearbox remanufacturing can vary between 10% and 100%, depending on the wear and tear of the donor gearbox.

Fredrik Nilzén, Head of Sustainability at Scania, said: “What an achievement by the project and everyone involved.

“This remanufactured gearbox is a compelling example of how the manufacturing of heavy vehicles can become more sustainable, circular and efficient, while still retaining the highest quality standards.”

Farazee Asif, Assistant Professor at KTH, said: “This research provides the first evidence to support the argument that it is feasible to envision future manufacturing organisations seamlessly integrating manufacturing and remanufacturing operations to develop Circular Manufacturing Systems that consume fewer resources, produce fewer emissions, and cost less without compromising on quality and performance.”

Remanufacturing in the European automotive sector is mainly confined to the aftermarket, which accounts for 1.1% of new manufacturing according to a report by the European Remanufacturing Network (2015). Wider adoption of this process requires vehicle manufacturers to integrate the remanufactured components directly into the production lines of new vehicles, rather than selling them separately as a spare part.