How Are Computers Recycled?
What do recycling services do with computers? Often, computers are separated into different components, which computer recycling services can recycle. The data drives are shredded, and metals are analyzed to determine their recycling value. Computers are sorted according to size and type, focusing on recyclable components. Then, the rest of the computer is processed to remove the plastic and reusable metal components. Computers are sometimes resold, and the manufacturers may answer questions or provide further information.
Data drives are shredded before recycling.
While computer recyclers use various methods to dispose of old computers, hard drives are one of the most hazardous. The shredded particles contain various materials, including copper, printed circuit boards, plastics, and other metals. Because of the potential danger of releasing these materials into the environment, properly recycling hard drives is necessary. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for monitoring electronic waste disposal and enforcing the proper punishments when violations occur.
To ensure that your hard drive is shredded, you must first determine the brand and model of your computer. Most computer recyclers will use Department of Defense standards software to secure the data. Unfortunately, the software rewrites the data several times before the hard drive can be recycled, making it difficult, but not impossible to recover. A good way to determine if your hard drive is still usable is to check the label on the PCB or the Printed Circuit Board on the side of the hard drive.
Metals are tested to determine if they can be recycled.
Computers contain numerous parts that can be physically repaired. Some computers may require small part replacements or software installations. Other computers may require hardware upgrades or memory upgrades. Computer parts provide a large variety of resale options. Most older models’ circuit boards and hard drives are still usable, while smaller plastic components may be damaged. These plastic components are typically polyethylene, a durable plastic material that becomes contaminated easily. Once separated, the smaller parts may be sold as scrap metal.
Computers are sorted according to size.
When computers are no longer needed, you can recycle them by sending them to companies that offer recycling services. Most major computer manufacturers have recycling programs that let you mail in your old computers for processing. Then, if you prefer, you can arrange for a manufacturer to pick them up. Computer recycling services are also available for smaller computers and laptops. Most of these organizations use recycled parts and materials. In addition to reusing, donating, and recycling, some of these services refurbish school computers and laptops.
Recyclable components are tested.
Discarded computer equipment can be recycled, including hard drives, monitors, printers, and cables. Computer components can be recycled by recycling electronic waste, helping to reduce landfills, conserve resources, and protect human health. Computer recyclable components include glass monitors, keyboards, plastic or aluminum casings, cables, and circuit boards. These materials are then tested to determine their potential for reuse.
Investment in computer recycling facilities has increased in recent years due to the rapid obsolescence of technology. Increasing concern about recycling, and opportunities for manufacturers to influence the secondary market, have led to increased investment in recycling. In addition, higher metal prices encourage increased recycling. While there is controversy regarding the methods of recycling electronics, many computer manufacturers and consumers have various options for disposing of their e-waste, including selling computers, donating them to organizations in need, or sending them back to the original manufacturer.
Recyclable materials are separated.
Recycling computers involves separating your outdated computers and disassembling them into their parts. Then, these parts are sorted, graded, and separated into reusable and non-reusable materials. After they have been broken down, the metals, plastics, and other recyclable materials are separated and sent to various industries for recycling. Recyclable computer components can be sold individually. Non-recyclable components are typically destroyed in a shredder.
The screens, keyboards, and internal circuitry are removed and separated during the break-down process. Next, metals and plastics are separated with a powerful overhead magnet. The resulting scrap metal is collected and reused in other manufacturing processes. Plastic and copper are separated further using mechanical processing and visual inspection. The separated streams are then collected and sold as recycled commodity materials. This method is a convenient and environmentally safe way to recycle your old computer components.
