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Should Manufacturers Be Obliged to Utilize "Green" Joining Methods?

Posted March 24, 2008 8:06 AM

For some applications, "greener" assembly techniques are almost a "no brainer." For instance, using solvent-less adhesives with properties equivalent or superior to solvent-based versions. In fact, this has come about via legislation to limit the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released into the atmosphere. But when its comes to high-strength-steel weldments, for example, the alternatives to achieve the same final property profile seem to be few indeed. In such cases, do you think companies should utilize the most efficient processes in order to save energy? Do you think it makes sense to redesign parts where possible to attain a smaller carbon footprint?

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Re: Should Manufacturers Be Obliged to Utilize "Green" Joining Methods?

03/25/2008 9:17 PM

Use the best, not the "greenest". Reduce the volatiles whenever economically feasible as they are often pollutants, while CO2 is not. I am sick of the Leftist hysteria about "carbon footprint". Redesign parts to be most efficient to their purpose, the best parts for the job. We have already lost the lives of astronauts due to using a weaker foam to avoid a tiny bit of pollution. It would have made sense to allow that particular type of plastic foam insulation to be made for that specific purpose, but environmentalists have no sense and are perfectly willing to sacrifice lives to "Save the Planet".

Engineers are supposed to be above that kind of wishful thinking and should concentrate on the best way to get the job done. If the best way happens to be "green" then that is fine and if the best way is not "green" ignore the "greenies" and just do it the best way.

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