A LCA Analysis of SMC Solution for Electrification

Abstract

The intensifying electrification trend in the automotive industry along with calls for high-efficiency, low-cost industrial applications drive the demand for energy- and cost-efficient electromagnetic components. Electromagnetic components of soft magnetic composite (SMC) materials can play an important role in this trend, making it possible to manufacture more compact and cost-efficient motor and inductor solutions compared to using traditional designs. SMC materials are made of iron powder particles coated with an electrically insulating layer and can be formed into complex shapes by means of powder metallurgy (PM), thereby allowing three-dimensional magnetic circuit design.This study mainly evaluates and analyses a partial carbon footprint of a product (CFP), applied to SMC powder production including raw materials, atomizing, annealing and surface insulation coating. Some life cycle analyses (LCA) of component manufacturing and benefit in electromagnetic application are also presented. Finally , a primary investigation to recycle SMC part is reported in this study.