Life Cycle Assessment in process design using laser-based manufacturing technologies

The FLASH project (Flexible Laser-based Manufacturing through Precision Photon Distribution) aims to develop a multi-process laser system to enhance manufacturing techniques such as cutting, drilling, welding, cladding, and micro-machining. By replacing conventional mechanical and chemical processes, the project seeks to reduce energy consumption, material waste, and reliance on consumables. In this paper, life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed for two case studies: an acetabular cup for a hip implant and a Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) grinding wheel (tool). For the two case studies, the following scenarios were considered: mechanical/chemical and laser processing. A third alternative scenario for the acetabular cup was also analysed, where near-net shape additive manufacturing (AM) is used for the manufacturing of components.