Assessing the impact of fusion-based additive manufacturing technologies on green supply chain management performance

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to identify the impacts of wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology on the green supply chain management (GSCM) performance. Also, it intends to identify the most essential WAAM capabilities.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory case study related to a metallurgical company using WAAM technology to repair metallic components was developed. A research framework to identify WAAM production capabilities and the different GSCM performance criteria was proposed based on the current state of the art. Primary qualitative data provided evidence for developing seven propositions relating WAAM capabilities to GSCM performance.FindingsThe paper provides empirical evidence relating to how WAAM production capabilities impact the different performance criteria of the GSCM performance. The results show that “relative advantage” and “supply-side benefits” are critical capabilities developed through WAAM. Furthermore, most of the capabilities regarding “relative advantage” and “supply-side benefits” promote a higher GSCM performance.Research limitations/implicationsThis research was carried out using a single case study research design and using qualitative data. Thus, future works are encouraged to test the propositions empirically using quantitative methodologies.Practical implicationsThe case study findings support that most WAAM production capabilities promote a higher GSCM performance. Managers could use this research to understand the capabilities developed by this fusion-based additive manufacturing (AM), become aware of the implications of new technology adoption on the supply chain environmental externalities, and develop new business models based on the WAAM capabilities.Originality/valueThis research contributes to expanding the state-of-the art related to WAAM technology by evidencing the relationship between adopting this fusion-based AM technology and green supply chain practices. Also, it provides a set of seven propositions that could be used to theorise the impacts of WAAM adoption on the GSCM performance.

Performance measurement framework of green supply chain implementation in the context of Indian manufacturing organizations

“…From the analysis of the literature, several articles were found that studied sustainable performance indicators. Ferreira et al (2023) examined the impact of fusion based additive manufacturing technologies on GSCM performance. Sheng et al (2023) reviewed the GSCM in integration with China's manufacturing industry.…”

“…In previous studies, much attention has been given to the traditional supply chain model of production and consumption rather than the green and lean aspects of the supply chain. The green supply chain is different from the traditional one as it acknowledges the ecological impact in decision making (Ferreira et al, 2023;Rupa and Saif, 2022). The green trend of protecting the environment and conserving the Earth's resources is a prime focus due to increased awareness about environmental protection (Pal et al, 2023;Panpatil and Kant, 2022).…”

“…In previous studies, much attention has been given to the traditional supply chain model of production and consumption rather than the green and lean aspects of the supply chain. The green supply chain is different from the traditional one as it acknowledges the ecological impact in decision making (Ferreira et al. , 2023; Rupa and Saif, 2022).…”

Significance of Industry 4.0 technologies in major work functions of manufacturing for sustainable development of small and medium‐sized enterprises

“…Streamline production activities, reduce lead times, and improve overall productivity (Anzolin & Andreoni, 2023;Bueno et al, 2020;Krzywdzinski & Jo, 2022;Mortimer, 2006;Syed et al, 2020;Wilson, 2010) 3D printing Enables on-demand production, reducing lead times, inventory costs, and waste (Bueno et al, 2020;Chi et al, 2022;Dilberoglu et al, 2017;Ferreira et al, 2023;Savsani et al, 2023) systematic planning, implementation, and monitoring of all activities to improve product quality or services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction (Claver et al, 2003). I4.0 technologies can enhance customer satisfaction when integrated with QM principles such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and ISO Standards (Chiarini, 2020;Nicholas, 2016;Patyal & Maddulety, 2015).…”

Advancing Wire Arc Directed Energy Deposition: Analyzing Impact of Materials and Parameters on Bead Shape

“…Specifically, as suppliers have closed or downsized, the original molds no longer exist, making it challenging to fabricate replacement parts [1]. Wire arc directed energy deposition (Wire Arc DED), an additive manufacturing (AM) technique using an electric arc to melt and deposit metal layer-by-layer, has presented itself as a potential solution to this problem [3]. With the capability to manufacture parts with less material waste, increased design flexibility, rapid prototyping [4], and its higher deposition rate, material utilization, and energy efficiency [5,6], research dedicated to Wire Arc DED manufacturing has grown in recent years [7].…”