Feasibility study of integrating remanufactured gearboxes in production line of new trucks (iReGear)

Purpose and goal:

The project demonstrated that the seamless integration of remanufactured components into the production line of new trucks is possible and confirmed that a remanufactured gearbox is ´as good as new´ based on new production quality standards. It also confirms that there are no legal obstacles to using remanufactured components in new trucks. Furthermore, customers are willing to accept remanufactured components in new trucks and have expressed a readiness to pay more for such a solution, given that it reduces overall emissions and their customers are willing to pay for it.

Expected results and effects:

The project demonstrated practical solutions for companies to scale up circularity, creating new business opportunities beyond selling remanufactured components as spare parts. It shows that local actors like Scania and STS AB can build a strong circular system and a competitive production chain. Expanding reuse and remanufacturing is a necessity in this changing legal landscape. Overall, this project serves as an inspiring example for other industry players to adopt the Circular Economy.

Approach and implementation:

The project was led by KTH, which has core expertise in Circular Manufacturing Systems (CMS) and large-scale CMS implementation projects. KTH also researched legal aspects and industrial best practices, in addition to gathering customer perceptions. STS AB remanufactured the gearbox used in the experiment and provided the necessary remanufacturing process-related expertise.

Scania offered the infrastructure, knowledge, and practical support needed for the integration and inline testing. Scania also provided access to two of its main customers.