The sustainable manufacturing coursework was to disassemble a common household item (in this case an iron) and analyse if it has been manufactured sustainably. Results were presented in the form of a report broken into 4 main sections, each section was completed by a team member. My role in this coursework was to create the design for disassembly section and propose improvements to the iron. Tasks included research, analysis, report writing and teamwork.

 

Extracts from the report:

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Introduction

The aim of this report is to summarise the eco-design analysis of a small electrical household appliance, disassembled during a laboratory session. The results will be presented in the following sections:

1. Design for disassembly

2. Recycling of metallic components

3. Recycling of non-metallic components

4. Energy conservation considerations of the product

Suggested developments for the product, in this case a traditional steam iron, will be summarised in the conclusion of this report.

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Research Example

This concept is explored further in a discussion by T.Schmaus and M.Kahmeyer: ‘Design for Disassembly – Challenge of the Future [3]’. One of the key difficulties with disassembly is the cost of disassembling a product once it is returned for disassembly. Currently most recycled products are deconstructed via ‘destructive disassembly’. For example washing machines are destroyed using fast spinning chains which destroy the outer casing. The internal components are then mechanically and magnetically separated for recycling.

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Iron Development Example

To solve this issue, the iron could split into two halves as shown in figure [9]. 4 Clip-fittings would hold both sections of the iron together during operation. To split the iron into two sections, all four clips are pushed in and the base screws become instantly accessible. Once the required operation is completed, the halves are pressed together and the clips re-attach. This is ideal for repair or replacement and is useful during disassembly to reach key components.

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Conclusion
To conclude, the current design of the iron is not easily disassembled as demonstrated by this section of the report. Despite the iron having several important components which could be replaced, recycled or repaired, the design of the iron prevents these parts from being reached quickly or easily. Because of changing consumer habits and the drive for sustainability in the manufacturing sector, it is recommended that the iron is improved or redesigned for disassembly.