The processing of metals is an energy-intensive industry. But many key renewable energy products rely on metal fabrication services for their creation. Fabricated components play a vital role in the manufacture of the very technologies that facilitate green energy production.
Using less energy can help to combat climate change. So how can metal fabricators like us do more to support the green energy industry and maintain sustainable production?
Renewable energy sources: the need for metal components
Harnessing wind energy, solar power, and creating systems that include heat exchangers all need metal parts. From wind turbines to heat pumps, the process involved in creating these renewable energy sources requires energy usage in manufacturing.
So it poses the question, if we need to use more energy to produce them, how does this impact the environment? Are the benefits as great as we think they are?
We believe there’s a great advantage in the push for renewable energy, and the answer is to make sure the production elements are as environmentally friendly as possible, too.
How we’re achieving energy-efficient metal fabrication at JC Metalworks
As a leading metal fabrication company, JC Metalworks is committed to being as energy efficient as possible in all its processes, and to conserving resources used in its in-house facility.
Following an energy assessment, we also have implemented several energy-saving initiatives on our shop floor and offices:
- New roof insulation to better control and reduce heat waste
- Upgrading to low-energy LED lighting to lower greenhouse gas emissions
- Installation of solar panels to reduce dependency on mains electricity is in the pipeline for years 2024-2025
- Minimising paperwork to reduce paper waste
- Efficient separation of materials to improve recycling processes
These simple measures have enabled us to save on our energy expenditure and have increased our operational efficiency.
While these are early days, we have already estimated to have stopped approximately 57,900kg of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) from entering the atmosphere by switching to low-energy LED lighting.
This was calculated based on data from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and Bulb’s carbon tracker The switch to low-energy LED lighting has reduced our energy bills by £60,000 over the course of year, which equates to around 30,0000 kWh savings. One kWh of electricity produces 0.193 kg of CO2e, bringing us to a reduction of around 57,900kg of CO2e.
How our equipment is helping to combat climate change
The machinery used in metal fabrication can have a huge impact on overall energy usage. Here’s how our equipment is supporting our sustainability goals.
Energy-efficient CNC machines
CNC machines with smaller motors save electricity and generate less heat. Our latest energy-efficient CNC machines are used for sheet metal processing: cutting, metal forming, fabricating and powder coating. These state-of-the-art machines allow us to bulk manufacture at competitive prices with reliable lead times.
Laser cutting
We also use fibre laser cutters, which reduce energy consumption in comparison to conventional laser cutters by using special techniques to shape the light required for cutting. Fibre laser technology is fast and energy-efficient, making it more sustainable. The reduction in CO2 and power usage is significant, affording lower production costs in some cases.
Welding
The most significant part of metal fabrication is welding. Making use of advanced welding methods like TIG & MIG robotic systems require less heat and energy than traditional welding methods.
Our sustainability goals
As the industry is getting ready to change its course to combat climate change, there is an opportunity for us to reinforce our sustainability goals and work towards a greener future.
Establishing a green work environment and utilising energy conservation and renewable resources is now a high priority for JC Metalworks.
We understand that energy-efficient technology not only saves energy and reduces costs, but also reduces waste. This is an area that can have a huge impact on business operations as it has advantages for all departments. Some of the effective manufacturing and production techniques include:
- Automation
- Organising & Planning
- Energy Assessments
- Becoming innovative and analysing strategies
- Implementing sustainable processes in all areas of the business
- Focusing on long-term business goals
- Fibre Laser Technology in the cutting department. They are clean, quick, and efficient.
- Using advanced welding methods that require less heat and energy than traditional welding methods.
Green metal fabrication is the way of the future. While cost reduction is the main driver for implementing energy-efficiency measures, it is not the only benefit of going green. JC Metalworks are committed to implementing these techniques into our operation to do our part for the environment.
By reducing the energy use and carbon emissions of our metal manufacturing processes, JC Metalworks has wholeheartedly embraced the goal of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050.
The Bottom Line
Fabricated metal products are vital in manufacturing a supply of green energy within the UK and Europe. Renewable energy sources can reduce the reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources, helping to lower global warming emissions. With an increasing demand for green energy, fabricated metal products will provide cost-effective parts and systems solutions in the renewable energy sector.
To ensure your business is ready for the increasing demand, a solid partnership with a bespoke metal fabricator is crucial. Partner with us for your precision sheet metal subcontracting and benefit from our high-quality, environmentally-friendly manufacturing.
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