How Carpenter Electrification Approaches Sustainable Manufacturing

Manufacturing processes worldwide have been catapulted into a new era of rapid technological advancements, where sustainability is not just an added advantage but a critical necessity. At Carpenter Electrification, a premier provider of high-performance materials for the electrification market, we believe in leading by example in this crucial transition by committing to sustainable manufacturing practices that benefit the environment and contribute to our products' overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Sustainable Manufacturing Basics 

To fully appreciate the efforts we are making at Carpenter Electrification to achieve sustainability and sustainable manufacturing, it's vital first to understand what this concept entails. Sustainable manufacturing is the creation of manufactured products through processes that are non-polluting, energy-conserving, resource-conserving, and economically viable while also being safe and healthy for workers, communities, and consumers. The objective is a harmonious balance where environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic prosperity coexist.

Embracing Sustainability at Carpenter Electrification

At Carpenter Electrification, sustainability isn't merely a buzzword. It's an integral component of our operations. Our innovative and expert research and development teams integrate sustainable practices into our workflow to minimize our environmental footprint, contribute to local communities, and champion the circular economy.

The Power of Local Manufacturing

A significant part of our sustainable practice involves local manufacturing. By establishing our manufacturing facilities close to our customer base, we drastically reduce carbon emissions tied to long-distance shipping. Additionally, local manufacturing invigorates the local economy by creating job opportunities and facilitating skills development. This helps us fulfill our commitment to the economic and social aspects of sustainability and strengthens our bond with the communities we serve.

Commitment to Waste Reduction

We at Carpenter Electrification are deeply dedicated to waste reduction. Our adoption of lean manufacturing processes emphasizes the efficient use of resources and waste minimization. Our waste management approach ensures that all waste, including hazardous and nonhazardous waste, is disposed of in compliance with all federal and state hazardous waste management requirements, including the EPA's Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). In 2021, we recycled 84% of our waste, including 100% of slag produced in our melt operations.

By doing this, we limit our environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency, which directly translates into cost savings and increased competitiveness in the marketplace.

Recycling Scrap Materials - A Key to Sustainability

In our journey towards sustainable manufacturing, recycling is an indispensable ally. As part of an innovative closed-loop recycling program, we reintroduce scrap materials from our manufacturing process back into the production cycle. In fact, 77% of the feedstock used in our production is recycled scrap. We recover as much metal byproducts as possible and continually seek opportunities to source any and all scrap materials from customers. 

This practice coupled with our adherence to sourcing materials from suppliers with similar sustainability values help reduce the demand for new, virgin materials, conserves natural resources, and minimizes the environmental impact.

Responsible Disposal of Excess Water

Water management plays a crucial role in our manufacturing processes. Understanding the significance of this precious resource, we have implemented advanced water treatment systems. These systems cleanse the excess water from our manufacturing operations before safely releasing it into the environment. This practice significantly curbs water pollution and conserves water, aligning with our commitment to the sustainable use of resources. Additionally, our Reading, Pennsylvania facility has three cooling water treatment systems that reduce water consumption and discharge, further helping us manage water consumption. 

Final Thoughts on Sustainable Manufacturing 

At Carpenter Electrification, sustainable manufacturing is more than just an operational strategy. It's a commitment that forms part of our core ethos. Through local manufacturing, conscientious waste reduction, diligent recycling, and responsible water management, we spearhead the shift toward a more sustainable future in the industry.

As we continuously refine our manufacturing processes and explore new sustainable practices, we remain steadfast in our belief that economic success and environmental responsibility coexist. We look at sustainable manufacturing as a journey, an ever-evolving path, and we are committed to staying on it for the long haul.

If you're interested in learning more about how we are shaping the future of sustainable manufacturing, please reach out to our team, and we can discuss our journey, experiences, and insights.