June 17, 2022 by Brett Gallagher Emerging science and technologies are key to the next generation of advanced manufacturing, global competitiveness, and sustainability. Manufacturing is continuously evolving. Experimental process and procedures will be the driver that helps push industries forward. One area that’s evolving is the adoption of sustainability within manufacturing. It’s exciting to see manufacturing companies lead by example when it comes to environmental awareness and sustainability. Over the years, industrial factories and manufacturing processes have played a part in contributing to environmental issues in the United States. However, recent activities for leading manufacturers are changing this narrative. Jay Timmons, President and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers states, “Everyone wants clean water and clean air. Everyone needs a good job and an economy that delivers new opportunities and a better life. Manufacturers are proving we can deliver both.” According to NAM, U.S. manufacturers are keeping their promise to delivering responsible environmental stewardship along with strong economic growth. In fact, based on a survey by NAM, 62 percent of companies have sustainable policies because it is their preferred business model. Alternative Materials Are Necessary One way to achieve sustainability is through manufacturing of composite materials. Alternative materials and smart process technologies will be critical to the next generation of advanced manufacturing. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers must consider material alternatives in every step of the manufacturing process. Substitutes for rare earth materials will support long-term sustainability and adoption of synthetic replacements will be key for long-term success. The focus on composites and automated composite development will be essential for determining alternative materials, reducing the cost for production and advancing the U.S. manufacturing global competitiveness. Alternative Processes Bring Benefits When it comes to waste management, we’re all aware of the 3Rs, reduce, reuse, and recycle. The principle of reducing waste and reusing materials is vital when it comes to manufacturing. Advanced manufacturing processes and smart technologies are helping when it comes to sustainability within manufacturing. Stratasys Ltd. published a recent sustainability report on environmental, social and governance (ESG) activities supporting their commitment to more sustainable and mindful manufacturing. Within the report they explain, “3D printing can reduce material costs and reduce waste by almost 90%, while lowering energy consumption by 25 to 50%.” The adoption of processes such as this will help companies advance production and reduce waste all while setting up for long-term success. For example, industries like aerospace and defense are already seeing the positive impact of alternative processes. So much so, Stratasys estimates the polymer 3D printing market in aviation alone will grow to $1.6 billion by the end of 2025.Not only is there an opportunity to reduce waste through sustainable manufacturing, but there is also the opportunity to increase productivity. Karen Haywood Queen, Contributing Editor for SME Media discussed these benefits, in particular metamorphic manufacturing and how robotic blacksmithing is poised to bring about faster production times, while using less energy and lowering material waste. New technology is often looked at as the solution to manufacturing pain-points effecting the bottom line. As Queen puts it, a new wrinkle in blacksmithing is hailed as the third wave of the industry’s digitization. Advanced Technology is Needed The adoption and implementation of advanced technologies is important for manufacturing growth and improved economic stability. It’s so critical that even the U.S. government understands the need for improved efficiency and sustainability. Within the AM Forward program, President Joe Biden is bringing 3D Printing to the forefront. He is calling for a wider adoption of this alternative manufacturing process, and supporting foundational technologies such as additive manufacturing, and investing in regional tech hubs. AM Forward allows companies to make clear, public commitments to purchase additively produced parts from smaller U.S.-based suppliers; train the workers of their suppliers on new additive technologies; provide detailed technical assistance to support their suppliers’ adoption of new capabilities; and engage in common standards development and certification for additive products. It’s exciting when you see manufacturers strive for sustainability and make a commitment to fully embrace new technology. These actions will not only benefit manufacturing companies and their overall business, but it will benefit the greater good.
