Abstract
The purpose of this study is to understand how emerging smart technologies, such as automation, artificial Intelligence, Internet of things, and robotics, can improve operational effectiveness and safety and remain aligned with the principles of the circular economy in the remanufacturing of bearings in South Africa. The main challenge in emerging industrial markets like SA is that our local facilities have highly manual-dependent processes. This leads to low throughput, high non-conformance rates, and significant ergonomic risks to workers, thus cancelling out the potential sustainability and competitiveness of the circular economy centre. The study thus adopted a qualitative single-case study design where the primary data collection instrument used was semi-structured interviews of 15 knowledgeable individuals in the specific field. The findings revealed systemic inefficiencies, skills gaps, dangerous machine parts, inadequate machine guarding, and excessive manual handling as major issues. The barriers to the adoption of the proposed technologies include the high capital cost, low technical capacity, and lack of a formal tactical plan. To overcome these challenges, the study proposes solutions such as polishing using robotic work cells, condition monitoring using sensors, and digital visual management. The aim of these interventions is to minimize safety risks, improve productivity, and achieve the goals of the circular economy. The research theoretically merges the socio-technical systems and circular economy and practically elaborates on a staged roadmap to the implementation of smart technologies in remanufacturing environments.