Authors:
Steven Hall (Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), United Kingdom)
Yijun Liu (Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), United Kingdom)
Benjamin Karbaron (Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), United Kingdom)
Kieran Bullivant (Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), United Kingdom)
Abstract:
Developing efficient and low-cost circular materials processes that upcycle waste are essential for creating resource efficient and sustainable components. In this study a process route for upcycling waste copper cables into copper compacts has been developed. The study investigated a range of solid-state powder metallurgy processes for upcycling copper granules; powder extrusion, hot press, press and sinter and cold isostatic pressing. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Inert Gas Fusion (LECO) were conducted to confirm purity and the Archimedes method used to confirm solid density. A cost model and energy calculation were conducted to assess the cost and energy of producing components by each method. All methods were found to be capable of consolidating copper granules with varying density and purity levels. Economic analysis and carbon footprint analysis suggested that parts would be equivalent or better when compared to traditional casting processes of virgin material.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59499/EP256767086
