Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows two designs for the same hand tool. Design A is assembled with screws and Design B is glued and welded.
Explain how each design affects repair and recycling at the end of the product's life. [4]
Design assembled with screws: screws can be removed with a common tool, so a worn component can be replaced and the tool can remain in use for longer. [1] At the end of its life, the assembly can be opened and different materials can be separated into the correct recycling streams. [1]
Design glued and welded: permanent joints cannot normally be opened without damaging or destroying the product. A failure in one component can therefore end the life of the complete tool. [1] The joined materials cannot be separated economically, so the product is likely to be landfilled or shredded as mixed waste rather than effectively recycled. [1]
Removable mechanical fixings support repair and material separation; permanent joints obstruct both. [4]
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