Integration of Ecological Aspects During Process Development and Design – A Case Study of Batch to Continuous Production

Sustainability has become a major topic in product and process development strategy for many companies. Development and design of resource-efficient processes are key factors and represent a substantial contribution to the improvement. The transfer of manufacturing processes from batch to continuous operation may contribute considerably to this goal. The basis for process redesign are experimental trials and the development of suitable equipment. In a case study, such a transfer has been conducted accompanied by technological, economic and ecological assessments. An analysis of the existing batch process supported by material flow modelling generated a reference point for the developed production process.