Seco Carbide Recycling Program Expands

Seco Tools, LLC (Troy, MI) collected 15 percent 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 (65,715 kg) of used carbide tools. Since the recycling program began in 2011, Seco Tools globally has received over a half million lb (226,796 kg) 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, the 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 (5 kg) of carbide, medium 1-gal containers hold approximately 50 lb (23 kg), and the large 30-gal drums accommodate approximately 2,000 lb (910 kg). Any carbide products 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 percent of cemented carbide tools. Up to 95 percent 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 percent and cuts CO2 emissions by 40 percent.

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.

www.secotools.com/us