Recycling Our commitment to long-term sustainability
Our carbide products consist of rare and valuable raw materials, including tungsten, cobalt and tantalumOur carbide products consist of rare and valuable raw materials, including tungsten, cobalt and tantalum. Estimates of existing tungsten reserves suggest that at present consumption rates, resources will be depleted within 40-100 years.
Before recycling, it is essential to make as good use as possible of our carbide products. To make the best use of these tools please make sure you use the correct cutting data. These can be determined with help of Suggest or our (digital) catalogues. For example our last JSE510 solid end mills.
Also ensure the best possible tool set-up for optimized tool life. When fully used the tool can be recycled. For many of our tools, reconditioning is also a cost-effective and sustainable approach.
Rather than rely entirely on mining virgin material, Seco reduces its impact on the environment by recycling used materials. The powder created by the recycling process (provided to Seco by certified recycling companies) has the same properties and qualities as virgin powder. By recycling, we can prolong the time before the resources are at an end, as well as reduce energy consumption by approximately 35% and carbon emissions by approximately 40%. Our Recycling Program contributes to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 12: Sustainable Consumption and Production.
Seco designed the Used Carbide Recycling Program to demonstrate our personal commitment to our customers and our shared environment. We strive to deliver winning solutions that encourage a safer workplace, support sustainable processes, and generate a return for the customer while safeguarding our planet for the next generation of manufacturers.
Seco will supply you with recycling bins for you to collect your worn-out carbide tools. When the bin is full, the customer contacts us for collection and transportation to one of Seco’s certified recycling plants.
Seco will recycle any carbide product, including bars and anvils, but no steel, ceramic or cermet. Upon receipt the used carbide will be sorted and weighed, and the customer will be compensated. The price depends on the market, and the total payment is based on the price of used carbide at the time of receipt by Seco. To receive recycling containers and set up your program, contact your Seco sales team member or customer service representative.
The following carbide products are suitable for recycling: inserts, solid drills, solid end mills, PCD/PCBN (tipped inserts only) and wear parts.
The following products are not suitable for recycling: solid PCD, solid PCBN, cermets and ceramics.
Both of these materials require expensive reprocessing input, which significantly reduces any environmental benefits of recycling.
Small Cup Size: Holds about 2-3 kg (GPN: 02768066)
Medium Box Size: Holds about 40-50 kg (GPN: 02768070)
Drum Size: Holds about 500 kg (GPN: 02982667)
Recyclable carbide must be free from contaminants, including ceramics, cermets and steel. Seco reserves the right to reject any or all materials that are non-conforming.
