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refabrication

Refabrication is the process of creating new parts, assemblies, or systems by reworking, reusing, or reassembling existing components or materials. It emphasizes conservation of resources by restoring or upgrading assets rather than starting from virgin materials. Refabrication can involve refurbishing worn components, retrofitting with newer interfaces, or constructing functional units from modular parts.

The typical workflow includes disassembly of the original asset, evaluation of its condition, restoration or modification

Applications span construction, manufacturing, infrastructure, and equipment maintenance. In construction, refabricated modules or structural elements can

Benefits include reduced material consumption, waste minimization, lower embodied energy, shorter lead times, and potential cost

Related concepts include remanufacturing, refurbishing, modular construction, and regenerative manufacturing.

to
meet
required
performance,
and
reassembly
with
testing
to
verify
functionality.
Advanced
methods
may
include
machining,
welding,
surface
treatment,
and
retrofits
that
improve
efficiency
or
compatibility
with
current
standards.
Digital
design
tools
such
as
CAD
or
BIM
may
support
reengineering
and
ensure
that
reused
components
fit
new
specifications.
form
part
of
modular
building
systems.
In
industry,
refurbished
machinery
and
components
extend
asset
life.
Aerospace
and
automotive
sectors
may
use
refabrication
for
upgraded
subsystems,
while
disaster
response
and
remote
operations
benefit
from
on-site
reconstruction
of
critical
assets.
savings,
contributing
to
the
circular
economy.
Challenges
involve
ensuring
reliability
and
safety,
meeting
regulatory
and
warranty
requirements,
achieving
quality
control,
and
developing
supplier
networks
and
standards
for
compatibility.
The
viability
of
refabrication
depends
on
asset
history,
condition,
and
the
availability
of
suitable
modular
components.