Troy, Michigan – Seco Tools LLC collected 15% more used carbide in 2014 than the previous year for its North American Carbide Recycling Program. The company received 350 returns during the year and processed a total of 144,877 lb (65,715kg) of used carbide tools. Since the recycling program began in 2011, Seco Tools globally has received more than a half million pounds (226,796kg) of carbide returned as grade powder.
Seco has been widely recognized for the success of its carbide recycling program. In 2014, The National Association of Business Resources named Seco one of “Michigan’s Best and Brightest Sustainable Companies.” This was followed by the organization presenting Seco with its 2014 National Best and Brightest Sustainable Companies Award, which celebrates organizations that inspire and produce green technology to impact the industry, environment, health and safety, and the lives of their employees.
“We are deeply committed to sustainability and being a leader in environmental initiatives,” explained Robert Keenan, president of Seco Tools, LLC. “It’s an important part of our corporate culture that is integrated throughout everything we do. Plus, our customers appreciate the opportunity this program provides to them to contribute to a cleaner, safer environment.”
Seco provides participating manufacturers with small, medium, or large storage containers to place in their facilities. Small 1-pint containers hold approximately 11 lb (5kg) of carbide, medium 1-gallon containers hold approximately 50 lb (23kg), and the large 30-gallon drums accommodate approximately 2,000 lb (910kg). Any carbide product can be placed in the containers, including carbide inserts, solid drills, solid end mills, wear parts and PCD/PCBN-tipped inserts. Seco periodically collects the containers and pays manufacturers at the market rate for the carbide that is returned.
In addition to the environmental benefits of recycling, Seco’s Carbide Recycling Program helps to address the growing global demand for tungsten, which comprises 75% of cemented carbide tools. Up to 95% of the material in a typical carbide insert can be reclaimed, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the metal cutting industry. Seco says recycling reduces related energy consumption by 35% and cuts CO2 emissions by 40%.
Companies participating in the recycling program represent a cross section of industries and regions. Major customers include John Deere, GE, Manes Machine, MessierDowty, Haas Automation, Caterpillar, Ellwood National Crankshift, American Axle, Snap-On, NOV, and NTK Precision Axle.
Manufacturers interested in participating in the Seco Tools Carbide Recycling Program can visit www.secotools.com/recycling for more information, or contact Vic Bruni at vbruni@secotools.com.
Source: Seco Tools LLC
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