Seco has released the annual results of its North American Carbide Recycling Program, revealing that the company collected and processed 57,368 lbs of used carbide tools used annually. This represented more than double the company's goal of 26,500 lbs due to steady growth of the program throughout the year.
With its Carbide Recycling Program, Seco provides manufacturers with small, medium or large storage containers to place within their facilities. Small containers hold approximately 5 lbs of carbide, medium containers hold approximately 50 lbs and the large drums accommodate approximately 1,500 lbs. As tools reach the end of their useful life, they can be placed in these containers, which are then collected by Seco. Any carbide products from any manufacturer can be submitted, including carbide inserts, solid drills, solid end mills, wear parts and PCD/PCBN tipped inserts. Manufacturers are paid at the market rate when the carbide is returned.
In addition to the well-publicized environmental benefits of recycling, Seco's Carbide Recycling Program helps to address the growing global demand for tungsten, which comprises 75% of cemented carbide. Up to 95% of the material in a typical carbide insert can be reclaimed, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the metalcutting industry.
"Over the past year, we have really spread the word to customers on just how easy it is to recycle used tools and inserts with the Seco program," said Vic Bruni, Manager of Quality at Seco Tools Inc. "Since launching the program in February 2011, we have seen a tremendous amount of growth and we are well on our way to our goal of recycling 50% of the carbide inserts we sell by 2014."
Manufacturers interested in participating in the Seco Tools Used Carbide Recycling Program can visit www.secotools.com/recycling for more information, or contact Vic Bruni at vbruni@secotools.com.
For more information contact:
Seco Tools Inc.
2805 Bellingham Drive
Troy, MI 48083
248-528-5444
secotools.us@secotools.com
www.secotools.com/us