RESTORE is a project with the overarching goal of showcasing a portfolio of sustainable repair and remanufacturing processes, specifically leveraging laser and plasma arc technologies. This initiative also emphasizes the integration of increased autonomy in damage detection, inspection, and process control, along with the use of recycled materials as feedstock consumables to drive advancements in the functionality of remanufacturing industrial components. The ultimate aim is to achieve full industrial circularity within the project scope.

At the project onset, the emphasis lies in defining Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and requirement specifications for sustainable remanufacturing of industrial products and components. This involves conducting a comprehensive State of the Art (SoA) analysis of cladding processes, performing Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for damaged components across identified use cases (UC1-UC4), and studying existing business models for remanufacturing services. The KPIs and specifications are designed to not only address technical challenges but also serve as the foundation for addressing non-technical requirements, including social, economic, and environmental considerations. Moreover, potential barriers, such as regulatory and standardization issues, are identified and targeted for resolution to ensure future scalability, widespread adoption, and replication within industrial ecosystems.



The project unfolds through various work packages (WPs). In Work Package 2 (WP2), the focus is on manufacturing wire with recycled content using pre-processed powder. This involves developing direct feeding techniques for incorporating recycled swarf and/or powder into the melt pool. The resultant material is then used to clad test substrates that align with the base material of the identified use cases. Evaluation of mechanical, tribological, and metallurgical performance of these test coupons helps in defining the maximum allowable recycled content in the consumables.

Moving to Work Package 3 (WP3), the project shifts towards the development of digital tools that support automation in tasks such as damage detection, inspection, and process control. Subsequently, in Work Package 4 (WP4), a digital platform is developed, incorporating milestones for the overall RESTORE platform. This platform is pivotal for consolidating the technology solutions developed and serves as a crucial component for the subsequent demonstration phase in Work Package 5 (WP5). In WP5, the technology solutions and the RESTORE platform are demonstrated on the four specified use cases, showcasing the practical application and impact of the project.

In essence, the RESTORE project follows a systematic methodology, addressing specific objectives at each stage. It integrates sustainable practices, advanced technologies, and digital tools to drive innovation in the remanufacturing process of industrial components, with a keen focus on circularity and overcoming various challenges in the field.