A consortium led by Schaeffler and the Fraunhofer Institute IPA is working on the REASSERT project to develop an electric motor prototype that can be easily disassembled and therefore is suitable for the circular economy. By enabling a second utilisation phase of the electric motor and the materials used in it, the overarching goal is to use valuable raw materials such as electrical steel, copper and rare earths more efficiently and thus contribute to achieving the medium-term CO2 targets. In order to reduce material consumption and waste volumes over the entire life cycle of an electric motor, the project team is focussing on the value retention strategies of “repair”, “refurbishment” and “reuse”.
Significance for the aftermarket
Repairing current electric motors is a major challenge for many independent workshops. The project consortium’s investigations should also help to create solutions for the reconditioning of electric motors for the spare parts market.
Establishing a process chain from incoming to end-of-line testing
A complete process chain is being set up for the realisation of the project. This begins with the incoming inspection to classify the incoming material. This is followed by steps such as dismantling, demagnetisation, cleaning, diagnosis and preparation of the components. The chain is completed by the reassembly of the electric motor and an end-of-line test. The experience gained during the process chain will be used to develop a recyclable electric motor and continuously improve its suitability.
Figure source: https://www.schaeffler.de/remotemedien/media/_shared_media_rwd/06_press/press_release/00001647F_rwd_600.jpg
Text source: https://www.schaeffler.de/de/news_medien/pressemitteilungen/pressemitteilungen_detail.jsp?id=87994816
