Machine Tool Remanufacturing and Sustainability
Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has been observed annually on April 22nd. In recognition of this important occasion, NSH USA is reflecting on our long-standing commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices — a commitment that started before Earth Day was created. Remanufacturing continues to deliver environmental and operational benefits across multiple industries.
For many of our machine tools, the machine base is one of the largest and most resource-intensive components to produce. Fabricating or casting this heavy steel structure results in notable carbon emissions. By reusing the machine base from equipment that has reached the end of its service life, we substantially reduce both the environmental impact and the resources required in the manufacturing process.
The remanufacturing process reduces the amount of raw material and energy needed to manufacture a new machine tool. Remanufacturing is a cornerstone of the circular economy – an approach where materials and components are reused, rebuilt, or repurposed rather than discarded.
Our remanufacturing efforts go well beyond the machine base. During a comprehensive initial evaluation, sub-assemblies that are deemed structurally sound are rebuilt with new components, extending their functional life.
In today’s market, where steel prices and material availability are increasingly volatile and global supply chains face persistent challenges, remanufacturing offers not only a sustainable solution—but a cost-effective one as well.
To learn more about the advantages of this sustainable approach, we invite you to visit our Remanufacturing page.
If you’re attending Railway Interchange 2025, don’t miss Brandon Teal, Director – Railway Machine Systems, as he presents “Remanufacturing in the Rail Industry” during the Locomotive Maintenance Officers Association (LMOA) education track. His session is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, at 3:00 PM EST.
