Abstract
This study investigated the remanufacturing process of automotive air conditioning compressors, starters, and alternators in Japan, and modeled the remanufacturing process using a functional modeling approach. By studying and observing the inputs and outputs of each remanufacturing process, we collected the data necessary for life cycle assessment and calculated the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated by each process and the associated costs. In addition, by estimating the GHG emissions generated during the manufacture of new parts and subtracting the emissions from the manufacture of remanufactured parts, it was determined that the use of remanufactured parts would reduce the expected GHG emissions by approximately 42-85%. In addition, by identifying the processes that account for a high percentage of the remanufacturing process, it was found that the process of manufacturing repair parts to replace worn parts accounted for the largest percentage. In terms of costs, it was found that in addition to the manufacturing of replacement parts, the processes associated with cleaning are a high percentage of the remanufacturing process. To enhance the GHG reduction effect using remanufactured parts, it was clarified that it would be effective to reduce both the number of replacement parts and cleaning by having the original manufacturer and the remanufacturer cooperate, share information on parts to be improved in terms of durability, and review the design of the parts. It was also found that efficient use of the equipment used in the cleaning, testing and drying processes would be effective in enhancing the GHG reduction effect.
