Development of a sustainable decision framework for the implementation of end-of-life (EoL) options for the railcar industry

Humbulani Simon Phuluwa (), Ilesanmi Daniyan and Khumbulani Mpofu
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Humbulani Simon Phuluwa: Tshwane University of Technology
Ilesanmi Daniyan: Tshwane University of Technology
Khumbulani Mpofu: Tshwane University of Technology

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2021, vol. 23, issue 6, No 69, 9433-9453

Abstract: Abstract The concept of sustainability and circular economy is crucial in the recovery of products that have reached the end-of-life (EoL). However, lack of a suitable framework for the recovery products at their EoL in the rail industry is a constraint in achieving a sustainable circular economy. There has been a growing concern about the environmental impact caused by railcar components that have reached their end-of-life. Hence, this study provides a sustainable decision framework for the selection and implementation of the EoL options for railcar components. Using the railcar bogie as a case study, the EoL recovery processes identified, namely refurbishment, reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing were incorporated into the decision model. The recovery rate of the steel material employed for the development of the bogie transom, bogie gear box and bogie motor were obtained as 95%, 96% and 98%, respectively, while aluminum material for the development of the brake cylinder also boast of high rate recovery (90%) at the end of its life cycle. Furthermore, the mathematical models for the estimation of the cost relating to the identified EoL options were developed in order to project the cost-effectiveness and the profitability of the EoL identified options. The cost implications of the EoL options as well as the projected profit from the cost models were estimated. Recommendations were also made to increase the level of awareness of the circular economy in order to promote economic, environmental sustainability and safe guide public health. It is envisaged that the findings of this work will assist railcar manufacturers, and operators to achieve sustainability in terms of material, energy, economic, social, and environment during the life cycle of a railcar.

Keywords: Circular economy; Decision framework; EoL; Mathematical model; Sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-020-01035-y

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