Cleaner Production options in sand casting in foundries.

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to assist foundries in pollution prevention by devising clean technologies which maintain or improve the quality of the ambient surrounding. The paper used Cleaner Production and its opportunities to minimize material consumption, optimize production yield and to prevent polluting the air, water and land. The reseachers reviewed how sand casting foundries can implement Cleaner Production and benefit from the created conducive environment as well as saved financial capital. The review gave an overview of the environmental aspects and impacts of foundry operations. It also outlined best practices to improve the energy, material, and environmental efficiency, and the product output of the operation. The current environmental status and performance of foundry companies in Zimbabwe was determined from the initial environmental review, energy and environmental audits. Once the environmental status was established, Cleaner Production options were then modelled. The feasibility of the options were also analysed, and life cycle analysis of casted products was carried out. The researchers concluded that raw materials, water, and energy were to be saved if foundry companies implemented Cleaner Production options.