Leveraging Additive Manufacturing and Reverse Engineering for Circular Economy-Driven Remanufacturing of Hydraulic Drive System Components

Featured Application This work lies in the field of hydraulic drive systems maintenance and remanufacturing and within the framework of the circular economy concept. The specific application is the remanufacture of hydraulic flowmeter components using additive manufacturing and reverse engineering techniques. By successfully repairing and upgrading hydraulic components like flowmeters, this approach contributes to reducing waste, conserving resources, and extending the lifespan of critical components in hydraulic drive systems. This innovative approach can not only enable the cost-effective restoration of damaged components but also enhances their performance by leveraging advanced materials and manufacturing technologies. The potential applications extend to various industries relying on hydraulic systems, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and transportation. By adopting these methods, organizations can promote sustainability, minimize downtime, and improve the efficiency and reliability of hydraulic systems, aligning with the principles of the circular economy.Abstract In response to the imperative of sustainability and resource efficiency, this article introduces an innovative framework for the remanufacture of hydraulic drive system components, firmly rooted in the tenets of the circular economy. This method mixes cutting-edge additive manufacturing technologies, meticulous 3D scanning techniques, and the rigorous discipline of reverse engineering to rebuild active elements within hydraulic drive systems. Fundamental to this framework is a resolute commitment to the repurposing of non-defective components, fostering a closed-loop system that systematically curtails waste generation and significantly diminishes the environmental footprint associated with hydraulic drive system maintenance. This article presents a meticulous examination of the remanufacturing process for a flowmeter, elucidating the intricate integration of additive manufacturing technology and the precision of 3D scanning to restore a previously damaged rotor. Through this interdisciplinary approach, we aim to elucidate the manner in which contemporary engineering practices can be harnessed to catalyze circularity, enhance resource efficiency, and increase sustainability within industrial operations. By demonstrating the efficacy of additive manufacturing and reverse engineering in hydraulic system remanufacturing, this article contributes significantly to the discourse on sustainable engineering methodologies, underlining their pivotal role in shaping a more environmentally conscientious, circular economy.