Thursday, 20 November 2014

Refurbished automotive parts specification published

BSI, the UK’s National Standards Body has collaborated with HONEST CO Ltd. Japan to develop PAS 3100 Remanufactured automotive parts. Specification for a process control system.

This is a new specification to clearly identify what terms define remanufactured automotive parts, as well as identifying a verifiable way to establish level of quality.

The remanufacturing of automotive parts is growing rapidly on a global basis. One of the resulting benefits of repurposing materials is the reduction of waste and CO2 emissions which can be effectively promoted by recycling the suitable parts. Currently, remanufactured automotive parts, even ones that have identical parts and carry the same part number, can differ greatly in performance and durability. This is because the pattern and length of previous use varies considerably.

Additionally, some parts are placed on the market as “remanufactured” having only had minimal refurbishment such as cleaning and re-painting, and have undergone no remanufacturing process. Therefore the quality level of remanufactured parts in the market is currently very wide. It can be difficult to distinguish between those parts that are likely to deliver value for money and those that are not. As such, many parts do not meet expectations and this has inhibited growth in the remanufactured parts market.

PAS 3100 covers requirements for a process control system for the remanufacturing of automotive parts. It aims to clearly and unambiguously define the terminology used to describe ‘remanufactured automotive parts.’ It also specifies an objectively verifiable process that can ensure the remanufacture of automotive parts is to a standard equivalent to that of manufacturers’ original parts.

Features of PAS 3100 include:
• Methods and constituent tasks
• Competence of personnel
• Tools and equipment
• Materials and controlled consumables
• Remanufacturing process management
• Quality control
• Health and safety of personnel
• Control of environmental impact of remanufacturing processes

Dan Palmer head of market development for manufacturing & services at BSI said, ‘This specification is not just about enabling organizations and individuals involved in the remanufacturing of used automotive parts for sale and use, to be clear about the performance history of the products they work with. It is about maintaining a high level of quality too, to improve reliability for the end members of these parts.’

PAS 3100 has been developed to be used independently of other quality management systems or standards such as ISO 9001 but can be used with one if desired.

Some of the organizations from Japan and the UK who helped collaboratively develop PAS 3100 include: APRA Europe (Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association), Aviva UK, BVSF (British Vehicle Salvage Federation), CRR (Centre for Remanufacturing and Reuse) and Suzuki GB PLC.

Mr Nagatsuka, president of HONEST CO Ltd. Japan said, ‘We urge manufacturers to apply this PAS 3100 to all automotive parts remanufacturing. It will help to ensure that high quality products are supplied to the market and enhance the performance and reputation of the automotive parts remanufacturing industry. This will also increase the satisfaction of end members and contribute meaningfully to the improvement in the global.’