How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries
How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

When most people think of scrap lead-acid batteries, they think of car batteries. But the technology has many other uses. They are used in other vehicles such as boats, buses, and golf carts. The material powers back-up generators at hospitals and other facilities during storms. 

Recycling scrap lead-acid batteries are important because of their composition and use. Manufacturers and consumers use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies or to power things like the following: 

  • Automobiles 
  • Electric scooters 
  • Electric wheelchairs 

Lead-acid batteries become obsolete after three to five years of use. The significant rise in the number of vehicles is likely to produce increased quantities of scrap lead-acid batteries in the future. 

With the high acid content, it is highly advisable not to try recycling lead-acid batteries outside of a certified, and reputable recycling center. In fact, Interco buys lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes. 

What There is to Know About Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 
What There is to Know About Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

What There is to Know About Scrap LeadAcid Batteries 

Lead-acid batteries depend on hazardous lead. Additionally, they have a relatively lower volumetric energy density, which makes their deployment somewhat impractical for energy management applications, and so they are primarily used for power applications. 

Lead-acid batteries have been used for more than 130 years in many different applications. 

Many people and companies recycle lead-acid batteries. Car batteries, and any other type of large, lead-acid battery, cannot go in your household trash or recycling. 

It is illegal to dispose of the battery in your trash. If not appropriately handled, lead-acid batteries can leak contaminants into soil and water. Instead, it is vital to take your dead battery for recycling to a retail store, distributor, or battery recycling facility. 

Scrap lead-acid batteries are the most recycled products in the U.S. In fact, 98% of lead-acid batteries are being recycled already, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. 

The Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycling Process 
The Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycling Process 

The Scrap LeadAcid Batteries Recycling Process 

The process of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be done carefully and with all consciousness, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. 

Consumers and businesses recycle lead-acid batteries more than any other batteries. Manufacturers and other industrialists use lead-acid batteries in industrial heavy equipment and forklifts. Lead-acid batteries are very reliable as a backup or auxiliary power as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in computers, data centers, telecommunication, and hospitals. 

The Recycling Process
The Recycling Process

The Recycling Process

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. Here’s how to recycle lead-acid batteries 

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of. 
  3. A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. The process is referred to as hammering. 
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

When companies improperly deposit materials and expose them to the environment in a landfill, there are consequences. Oftentimes, chemicals seep into the ground contaminating the water, soil, and other natural resources.  

It is important that companies take this responsibility seriously. 

The team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals. Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. Thus, the team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. 

Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries with Interco

Overall, lead-acid battery recycling is vital. Furthermore, it enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Additionally, Interco begins the recycling process by working with machines that shred the whole batteries and sort the plastic and lead. Therefore, the process reintroduces the lead as an industrial material for commercial production. Click here to learn more about how to recycle scrap lead-acid batteries. 

Here is How and Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Here is How and Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries
Here is How and Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Here is How and Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Many battery users are unaware of the proper ways to dispose of a battery – especially a lead-acid battery. There a few ways to dispose of the material including when to recycle lead-acid batteries. So, when considering disposal methods, it is important first to know what kind of battery your company is trying to trash. 

Car batteries, and any other type of large lead-acid battery, cannot go in household trash or recycling. Additionally, lead-acid batteries are banned from landfills and incinerators in every state because of their toxicity levels.

Given the high acid content, it is highly advisable not to try recycling lead-acid batteries by yourself. In fact, Interco buys lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, specialized lead-acid battery recyclers crush old batteries into nickel-sized pieces and separate the different components.

The plastic in lead-acid batteries is mostly polypropylene, which has a high heat tolerance. It can be recycled. Furthermore, the lead in the batteries is sold to companies that make new batteries. In fact, the EPA estimates that up to 80% of the plastic and lead in any new battery you purchase is recycled.

Here’s How to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries
Here’s How to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Here’s How to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

There are two types of lead-acid batteries: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries. A starting battery quickly delivers a large burst of power to help an engine start. A deep-cycle battery delivers a continuous low level of power to help an engine keep operating.

Eventually, these batteries reach end-of-life status or become obsolete. About their name, lead-acid batteries contain large quantities of lead and sulfuric acid, therefore requiring a safe disposal method.

The process of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be done carefully and with all consciousness, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. Here’s how to recycle lead-acid batteries

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories.
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of.
  3. A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. The process is referred to as hammering.
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats.
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them.
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away.
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries.
Here’s Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries
Here’s Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Here’s Where to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Recycling used lead-acid batteries is significant because of the nature of their composition and use. Manufacturers and consumers alike use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies or to power things like the following:

  • Automobiles
  • Electric scooters
  • Electric wheelchairs

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content.

Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries in use today. Different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials. Depending on the content – whether it’s metallic, plastic, or chemical – recycling at different stages of the production cycle often determines whether recycling is feasible or not.

Also, Interco begins the recycling process by working with machines that shred the whole batteries and sort the plastic and lead. Then they separate and clean the different materials while and drain and neutralize the acid. The process reintroduces the lead as an industrial material for commercial production.

One of the first R2v3 certified recyclers’ in the world, Interco recycles nonferrous industrial metals and specializes in difficult to process alloys, lithium-ion batteries, metallic powders, and solar panels.

Choose Interco to Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries

Overall, recycling lead-acid batteries are vital. Furthermore, it enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Additionally, the team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals. Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. The team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. Finally, to learn more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries, click here.

What to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

What to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries
What to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

What to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries can be found in many places – most commonly, automobiles – but eventually, these batteries reach an end-of-life status. When scrap lead-acid batteries begin to create an unwanted pile, consumers and companies can earn cash from their scrap. The team at Interco will buy scrap lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes.

Recycling used lead-acid batteries is significant because of the nature of their composition and use. Manufacturers and consumers use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies or to power things such as: 

  • Cars and other vehicles 
  • Electric scooters 
  • UPS systems 

Keeping scrap lead-acid batteries stored in a scrapyard or anywhere on your property can lead to hazardous leaking that may contaminate surrounding water streams. Fortunately, Interco has the solution that pays.

3 Things to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries
3 Things to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

3 Things to Know About Recycling Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries in use today. Different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials. Depending on the content – whether it’s metallic, plastic, or chemical – recycling at different stages of the production cycle often determines whether recycling is feasible or not. 

1. Types of Lead-Acid Batteries:

There are two types of lead-acid batteries: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries. A starting battery quickly delivers a large burst of power to help an engine start. In addition, a deep-cycle battery delivers a continuous low level of power to help an engine keep operating.

2. Who Will Buy Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries?

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content.  Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries in use today. Furthermore, different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials.  Often, the lead in the batteries is sold to companies that make new batteries. In fact, the EPA estimates that up to 80% of the plastic and lead in any new battery you purchase is recycled. Most people and businesses are unaware of the potential recycling value of scrap lead-acid batteries. Interco begins the recycling process by working with machines that shred the whole batteries and sort the plastic and lead. Thus, they then separate and clean the different materials while and drain and neutralize the acid. The process reintroduces the lead as an industrial material for commercial production. 

Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process
Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process

3. Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process:

The process of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be done carefully and with all consciousness, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. Therefore, the scrap lead-acid batteries recycling process starts as follows: 

  • First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  • The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of. 
  • A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. The process is referred to as hammering. 
  • Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  • They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  • Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  • Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

One of the first R2v3 certified recyclers’ in the world, Interco recycles nonferrous industrial metals and specializes in difficult to process alloys, lithium-ion batteries, metallic powders, and solar panels. 

Recycle Lead-Acid Batteries with Interco 

Overall, Interco will buy scrap lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes. Recycling enables the recovery of valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Additionally, the team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals. As a result, Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. The team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. Finally, to learn more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries, click here

Where to Find the Best Prices for Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

Where to Find the Best Prices for Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries
Where to Find the Best Prices for Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

Where to Find the Best Prices for Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

Many consumers and companies are unaware of the potential recycling value of lead-acid batteries. Therefore, it is beneficial to understand scrap metal prices. Scrappers and recyclers often look for the best prices scrap lead-acid batteries recycling centers offer.

Three of the most typical factors that influence the price change of metals include the supply and demand; energy cost and production; and the price of virgin metals. 

Auto batteries, and any other type of large lead-acid battery, cannot go in household trash or recycling. In addition, lead-acid batteries are banned from landfills and incinerators in every state because of their toxicity levels. 

Eventually, these batteries reach end-of-life status or become obsolete. Therefore, those who have collected a pile of scrap lead-acid batteries can look forward to finding the best prices for scrap lead-acid batteries.  

Interco has a global network that offers the ability to provide the most competitive prices in North America.  

How Recyclable are Lead-Acid Batteries
How Recyclable are Lead-Acid Batteries

How Recyclable are Lead-Acid Batteries 

Recycling used lead-acid batteries is significant because of the nature of their composition and use. Moreover, manufacturers and consumers alike use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies or to power things like the following: automobiles, electric scooters, and electric wheelchairs.

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. 

Depending on the content – whether it’s metallic, plastic, or chemical – recycling at different stages of the production cycle often determines whether recycling is feasible or not. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, specialized lead-acid battery recyclers crush old batteries into nickel-sized pieces and separate the different components.  

The plastic in lead-acid batteries is mostly polypropylene, which has a high heat tolerance. Furthermore, it can be recycled. Furthermore, the lead in the batteries is sold to companies that make new batteries. In fact, the EPA estimates that up to 80% of the plastic and lead in any new battery you purchase is recycled. 

Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process

Lead-acid batteries are the main source of lead scrap for recycling, accounting for nearly 90% of the total lead scrap available for recycling. 

There are two types of lead-acid batteries: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries.  

  • A starting battery quickly delivers a large burst of power to help an engine start.  
  • A deep-cycle battery delivers a continuous low level of power to help an engine keep operating. 

In fact, used automobile batteries account for almost 85% of the total lead-acid battery scrap

The Battery Recycling Process
The Battery Recycling Process

The Battery Recycling Process

The process of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be done carefully and with all consciousness, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. The process to recycle lead-acid batteries starts as follows: 

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of. 
  3. Next, a hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. Recyclers call this process hammering. 
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

The remarkable Interco facility is comprised of five buildings — approximately 400,000 square feet total — on more than 35 acres. Additionally, the company facility has more than 20 inbound and outbound docks for receiving and shipping nonferrous scrap material as well as a railroad rail spur to load rail cars. 

Interco Offers the Best Prices for Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

It is profitable to recycle lead-acid batteries. Also, it enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. In fact, Interco has grown from an electronic scrap recycling company to a comprehensive processor and recycler handling nonferrous, industrially generated metal-bearing complex residues, most battery chemistries, and catalysts. Thus, the team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of best prices scrap lead-acid batteries. Finally, to learn more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries, click here

The How to Guide to Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

The How to Guide to Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries
The How to Guide to Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

The How to Guide to Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

Once your company collects a pile of scrap lead-acid batteries, it is vital to research a scrap lead-acid batteries recycling company. 

The most common new lead-acid battery contains 60 to 80 percent recycled lead and plastic.  

When an expired battery is collected, it is sent to a permitted recycler, where under strict environmental regulations; the lead and plastic are reclaimed and sent to a new battery manufacturer.  

Lead-acid batteries become obsolete after three to five years of use. In fact, the significant rise in the number of vehicles is likely to produce increased quantities of scrap lead-acid batteries in the future. 

Additionally, lead-acid batteries have been used for more than 130 years in many different applications. 

These batteries have a relatively lower volumetric energy density, which makes their deployment somewhat impractical for energy management applications, and so they are primarily used for power applications. 

Interco, a scrap lead-acid batteries recycling company, recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. In fact, lead-acid batteries rely on hazardous lead to operate. 

What to Look for in a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycling Company
What to Look for in a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycling Company

What to Look for in a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycling Company 

Safe recycling is more important than ever, making it necessary for everyone to do their part. 

A reputable scrap lead-acid batteries recycling company recognizes the importance of recycling certification, recycling method, and recycling violations.  

Lead-acid batteries are prohibited by State law from being disposed of in the trash and should be returned to a metal scrap yard that accepts them. In fact, it is highly advisable that people and businesses with the scrap material research scrap lead-acid batteries disposal services. 

Consumers and companies recycle lead-acid batteries more than any other batteries. They can most commonly be found in the following: automobiles, motorcycles, and smaller vehicles. 

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries as a certified and reputable scrap lead-acid batteries processing facility. In addition, the recycling process must be performed in accordance with relevant standards. In fact, there are a few health and emissions risks: 

  • Uncontrolled drainage and disposal of battery acid 
  • Emission of lead particles and acid caused by inappropriate battery breaking processes 

People exposed to these hazardous materials are at great risk of developing harmful medical complications. However, through responsible recycling, we can reduce some of those harmful effects. For instance, recycling decreases pollution in the soil, water, and air.

Certified and reputable recycling centers perform the recycling process for lead-acid auto batteries carefully, and preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. 

How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 
How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

How to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

Lead-acid batteries are the main source of lead scrap for recycling, accounting for nearly 90% of the total lead scrap available for recycling. 

There are two types of lead-acid batteries: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries.  

  1. A starting battery quickly delivers a large burst of power to help an engine start.  
  2. A deep-cycle battery delivers a continuous low level of power to help an engine keep operating. 

The recycling process begins at Interco when the machines shred the whole batteries and sort the plastic and lead. Thus, then they separate and clean the different materials while and drain and neutralize the acid. The process reintroduces the lead as an industrial material for commercial production. 

Lead-acid batteries are often in use in boats and other marine equipment. Moreover, manufacturers and other industrialists use lead-acid batteries in industrial heavy equipment and forklifts as well.  

In fact, lead-acid batteries are very reliable as a backup or auxiliary power as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in computers, data centers, telecommunication, and hospitals.  

The remarkable Interco facility comprises five buildings — approximately 400,000 square feet total — on more than 35 acres. Thus, the company facility has more than 20 inbound and outbound docks for receiving and shipping nonferrous scrap material as well as a railroad rail spur to load rail cars. 

Interco Recycles Lead-Acid Batteries 

Overall, it is profitable to recycle lead-acid batteries. It enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Interco has grown from an electronic scrap recycling company to a comprehensive processor and recycler handling nonferrous, industrially generated metal-bearing complex residues, most battery chemistries, and catalysts. The team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. Click here to learn more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries.  

Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries
Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries

Car batteries, and any other type of large lead-acid battery, cannot go in household trash or recycling. Therefore, lead-acid batteries paved the way to the success of recycling.

Recycling lead-acid batteries are vital because eventually these batteries reach end-of-life status or become obsolete and must be disposed of. 

Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries in use today. Different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials. 

Additionally, lead-acid batteries are banned from landfills and incinerators in every state because of their toxicity levels. Even though environmentally unfriendly, lead-acid batteries continue to hold a strong market niche, especially as a starter battery. 

Today more than 97 percent of these batteries are recycled in the U.S. In fact, Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. 

The plastic in lead-acid batteries is mostly polypropylene, which has a high heat tolerance. This can enter the recycling process. Furthermore, companies that make new batteries use recycled lead for production. In fact, the EPA estimates that up to 80% of the plastic and lead in any new battery you purchase is recycled. 

The History of Lead-Acid Batteries 
The History of Lead-Acid Batteries 

The History of Lead-Acid Batteries 

Batteries such as lead-acid contain large amounts of lead as well as sulfuric acid. When the batteries are made, a set of lead plates are used, each of which represents a negative and positive charge. Once the battery is constructed, it is placed into a container made of plastic. 

Lead-acid batteries hold their charges for three to five years before they decline. When you examine the contents of the batteries, you quickly understand why recycling is important. You also want to dispose of the batteries before they start corroding.

The batteries can harm animals and humans, including groundwater supplies if not disposed of or recycled properly. Mining obtains the lead used for the batteries, which also harms the environment over time.

Recycling of lead-acid batteries is a process of great interest in the lead industry. Casings can be resold back to manufacturers to reintroduce the materials back into the industry cycle.

Consumers and companies recycle lead-acid batteries more than any other batteries. Consumers primarily use them in automobiles, motorcycles, smaller vehicles, ATVs, and golf carts. They also use them in boats and other marine equipment. Manufacturers and other industrialists use lead-acid batteries in industrial heavy equipment and forklifts as well.

Lead-acid batteries are very reliable as a backup or auxiliary power as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in computers, data centers, telecommunication, and hospitals. 

Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries 
Recycling Lead-Acid Batteries 

Recycling LeadAcid Batteries 

The process of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be done carefully and with all consciousness, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. Here’s how to recycle lead-acid batteries 

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid for safe disposal. 
  3. A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. Recyclers refer to this process as hammering. 
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

Recycling used lead-acid batteries is significant because of the nature of their composition and use. Manufacturers and consumers alike use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies or to power things like the following:

  • Automobiles 
  • Electric scooters 
  • Electric wheelchairs
  • Some alarms
  • UPS Systems

Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. The team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. 

Interco Recycles Lead-Acid Batteries

Overall, recycling lead-acid batteries enable recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Additionally, the team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals. To learn more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries, click here

The Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

The Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries
The Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

The Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries

If you have a used lead-acid battery, there are a few ways to safely dispose of it. Recyclers with a pile of scrap lead-acid batteries generally start to research the best company to recycle scrap lead-acid batteries. 

Consumers and companies recycle lead-acid batteries more than any other batteries. Consumers primarily use them in buses, golf carts, and boats. Lead-acid batteries are very reliable as a backup or auxiliary power as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in: data centers, telecommunication, and hospitals.

Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries in use today. Therefore, different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials. 

Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. The recycling process of lead-acid batteries is vital because eventually these batteries reach end-of-life status or become obsolete and must be disposed of. 

Car batteries, which are lead-acid type batteries cannot be disposed of in incinerators or landfills because they are too toxic. 

Where is the Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries? 
Where is the Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries? 

Where is the Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries? 

Lead-acid batteries are banned from landfills and incinerators in every state because of their toxicity levels. Even though environmentally unfriendly, lead-acid batteries continue to hold a strong market niche, especially as a starter battery. 

Besides, lead-acid batteries are the main source of lead scrap for recycling, accounting for nearly 90% of the total lead scrap available for recycling. 

Interco is considered the best company to recycle scrap lead-acid batteries.  

Depending on the content – whether it’s metallic, plastic, or chemical – recycling at different stages of the production cycle often determines whether recycling is feasible or not. The team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions. 

How to Safely Dispose of Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 
How to Safely Dispose of Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

How to Safely Dispose of Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

The act of recycling used lead-acid auto batteries should be performed with the appropriate safety precautions, preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. Here’s how to recycle lead-acid batteries 

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of. 
  3. A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. Recyclers refer to this process as hammering. 
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

Recycling used lead-acid batteries is important because of the nature of their composition and use. 

In fact, there are two types of lead-acid batteries that are recycled. These batteries include deep-cycle batteries and starting batteries.  

  • A starting battery, like the name implies, provides the power to start an engine.  
  • A deep-cycle battery delivers a continual low level of power to keep an engine running. 

Today more than 97 percent of these batteries are recycled in the U.S. Consequently, Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content.

Interco is the Best Company to Recycle Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries 

In summary, lead-acid battery recycling is vital. Consequently, it enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. In fact, Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. The remarkable Interco facility is comprised of five buildings — approximately 400,000 square feet total — on more than 35 acres. Interco works with dealers and industrial partners throughout North America as well as Central and South America. Interco buys lead-acid batteries to recycle them safely. Learn more about recycling lead-acid batteries here

Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler

Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler
Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler

Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler

It is highly advisable not to try recycling lead-acid batteries by yourself. In fact, your business can sell its material to a certified scrap lead-acid batteries recycler for recycling purposes.

A certified scrap lead-acid batteries recycler guarantees proper recycling practices are in place. In fact, if you have a scrapyard full of lead-acid batteries, sell them to a recycling center like Interco. 

Lead-acid batteries are also closed-loop recycled, which means each part of a battery is recycled into a new battery. According to the EPA, about 80% of the lead and plastic in a lead-acid battery is recycled for reuse. Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. 

Many battery users are unaware of the proper ways to dispose of a battery – particularly a lead-acid battery. So, when researching disposal methods, it is important first to know what kind of battery your company is trying to trash. 

The Importance of Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler 
The Importance of Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler 

The Importance of Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler 

It is illegal to dispose of the battery in your trash. If not properly handled, lead-acid batteries can seep contaminants into soil and water. Instead, you must take your dead battery to a certified scrap lead-acid batteries recycler for recycling. 

There are two types of lead-acid batteries: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries.  

  1. A starting battery quickly delivers a large burst of power to help an engine start.  
  2. A deep-cycle battery delivers a continuous low level of power to help an engine keep operating. 

Lead-acid batteries contain metallic lead, lead dioxide, lead sulfate, and sulfuric acid. The plastic in lead-acid batteries is mostly polypropylene, which has a high heat tolerance. It can be recycled. Furthermore, the lead in the batteries is sold to companies that make new batteries. Without recycling, these scrap lead-acid batteries will cause harm to the environment and economy.  

Interco begins the recycling process by working with machines that shred the whole batteries and sort the plastic and lead. Consequently, then they separate and clean the different materials while and drain and neutralize the acid. Thus, the process reintroduces the lead as an industrial material for commercial production. 

Those who scrap can reap the benefits of working with a certified scrap lead-acid battery recycler by assisting to: 

  • Reduce landfill 
  • Protect natural resources 
  • Earn a profit 

Additionally, Interco has been a member of the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. (ISRI) since 1996. ISRI is the voice of the recycling industry promoting safe, economically sustainable, and environmentally responsible recycling through networking, advocacy, and education 

The Benefits of Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling 
The Benefits of Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling 

The Benefits of Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling 

The recycling process enables recyclers to recover valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes.  

In addition, there are a few things you’ll want to look for in a certified scrap lead-acid batteries recycler. For example, you’ll want to make sure they’ve received their recycling certification, which means they’re knowledgeable on all things recycled.  

Your company will also need to find out which recycling method they use, as well as if they’ve received any recycling violations. 

These lead-acid batteries contain acids; toxic acids i.e., sulfuric acid which is very corrosive. Therefore, the indiscriminate disposal of these batteries can be detrimental to human lives and the environment may lead to: contaminated water streams, the decimation of agricultural land, and death of plants.

The team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals. Furthermore, Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry.

Interco is a Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Recycler

The materials’ wide industrial and commercial uses ultimately results in scrap pile up. Interco operates on a 45-acre facility that has more than 35 docks. Additionally, the facility can receive loads by van trailer or dump. Interco is in the business of purchasing scrap electric motors to recycle them properly. Thus, the company has been a member of ISRI since 1996. To learn more about the certified scrap lead-acid batteries recycler, click here

Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company

Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company
Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company

Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company

Batteries are expensive and have a relatively short life span. As discarded batteries grow by the tonnage, businesses and companies can sell these batteries for recycling purposes.

Lead-acid battery scrap is the most found lead scrap. Therefore, consumers and companies that are aware of the potential values of batteries can earn cash from their scrap using a scrap lead-acid batteries salvage company.  

Today, nearly 99 percent of all lead-acid batteries are recycled, and more than 85% of lead is used to manufacture lead acid batteries across the globe. 

Lead-acid batteries represent the most recycled consumer goods in the United States. Typically, the automotive batteries become obsolete after three to five years of use. In fact, the tremendous rise in the number of vehicles is likely to produce increased quantities of lead battery scrap in the future.  

Recycling enables the recovery of valuable metals and reduces the harmful effects on the environment that improper disposal causes. Additionally, the team at Interco accepts, processes, trades, and recycles an array of nonferrous metals.

The Importance of a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company 
The Importance of a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company 

The Importance of a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company 

It is punishable to ship lead-acid batteries to overseas destinations for recycling, due to its hazardous nature. Most consumers and companies are unaware of the negative results of incorrect battery disposal, but also unaware of the potential value of selling scrap lead-acid batteries to recycling facilities. 

Battery manufacturers produce several types of batteries that are widely used today. Moreover, different recycling processes are available for each to recover and recycle the materials. Recycling facilities that scrap batteries can sell the internal materials and casings back to battery manufacturers so they can produce more batteries. This, reintroduces the materials back into the battery industry.

Often, the lead in the batteries is sold to companies that make new batteries. In fact, the EPA estimates that up to 80% of the plastic and lead in any new battery you purchase is recycled. Recycling used lead-acid batteries is significant because of the nature of their composition and use. Thus, manufacturers and consumers use lead-acid batteries as backup power supplies.

These batteries power things such as:

  • Cars and other vehicles 
  • Electric scooters 
  • UPS systems 

Keeping scrap lead-acid batteries stored in a scrapyard or anywhere on your property can lead to hazardous leaking that may contaminate surrounding water streams. Fortunately, Interco has the solution that pays. Furthermore, the scrap lead-acid batteries salvage company will buy scrap lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes. 

The Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process
The Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process

The Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Process 

Interco recycles lead-acid batteries primarily for their lead content. In fact, here’s how to recycle lead-acid batteries 

  1. First, recycling companies collect expired or used lead-acid auto batteries for battery depositories. 
  2. The recycling company then neutralizes the acids. They introduce a base that subdues the corrosive properties (toxicity) of the acid so it can be safely disposed of. 
  3. A hammer mill shatters the battery or breaks it apart. In fact, the process is referred to as hammering. 
  4. Then, place broken pieces in a vat, so that the lead plates and heavy materials sink to the bottom while the plastic floats. 
  5. They transport the polypropylene plastics into a plastic recycler to melt and refine them. 
  6. Then, the process goes to clean the lead plates and heat them in furnaces, so they melt. After this, cast the molten lead into an ingot mold. After a few moments, the impurities float to the top of the cast, and they scrape them away. 
  7. Finally, they re-melt the pure ingot casts and use them in new batteries. 

A scrap lead-acid batteries salvage company performs the recycling process for lead-acid auto batteries carefully, and preferably in a controlled environment far from residential areas. 

A Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Salvage Company
A Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Salvage Company

A Certified Scrap Lead-Acid Battery Salvage Company

Interco, as an ISO 9001 Quality Management System certified company, continues an international-accepted uniform quality system, supplies the highest levels of customer service, and manages its material in the highest regard. All material will be recycled by approved ISO 14001 Environmental Management and ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety best practices. As a result, Interco confirms the exact weights and records upon receipt, and we issue a written certificate of recycling.

There are multiple reasons why Interco stands out from the competition. 1) The Interco recycling facility expands through new contracts, new equipment, and new recycling solutions. 2) Interco maintains the latest recycling certifications that provide up-to-date recycling knowledge and training. 3) Interco has four patents pending to improve the safety and efficiency of recycling processes. Therefore, the facility has the tools, experience, and resources needed to process lead-acid auto batteries.

Interco is a Scrap Lead-Acid Batteries Salvage Company

Overall, Interco – as a scrap lead-acid batteries salvage company – will buy scrap lead-acid batteries for recycling purposes. Interco recycles batteries of all shapes, sizes, and chemistry. Thus, the team at Interco continues to lead the way in terms of innovative industrial recycling solutions.

With millions of pounds of batteries recycled, Interco continues to implement certified processes for safe and efficient lead-acid auto battery recycling methods. Interco has been performing industry-leading solutions for 20+ years with premium battery recycling services for clients all around the country. Additionally, Interco transportation solutions are offered across all 50 states. The team at Interco also offers delivery, pickup, full truckload, and LTL services.

To discover more about how to recycle lead-acid batteries, click here

Popular Items to Recycle This Fall

Popular Items to Recycle This Fall

Recycling used materials never goes out of season as it reduces landfill, waste and saves on energy used to produce new materials.  In fact, Americans generate an additional 5 million tons of waste throughout the holidays. As the start of the fall season approaches, it is important to watch out for these popular items to recycle.

The value of recycling and reusing items like aluminum cans, plastic bottles and paper is known by most consumers. Recycling waste not only benefits the environment and keeps useful materials out of landfills, it offers a profit. The list of materials that are recyclable grows daily.

3 Popular Items to Recycle This Fall Season

 1. Appliances
1. Appliances

1. Appliances

It is getting cold outside. Your heat isn’t working, what do you do?

Some appliances need to be replaced before winter begins. A heater’s life span is 15-20 years. A furnace’s life span is 16-20 years. Water heater’s life span is 8-12 years. Point being, even appliances need to be recycled.

Even if it isn’t necessary, with the holidays coming up, some people just want to get a new oven or microwave so they can cook family dinners for family reunions. A lot of time those people buy appliances during the holiday sales towards the end of summer, but don’t receive them until fall.

Once you get your replacement appliance, where does the old one go? Sell it to a recycling company for some quick holiday cash.

2. Electronics
2. Electronics

2. Electronics

The majority of people have cell phones now, and a lot of people grab the newest and greatest as often as they can. Popular electronics are released throughout the year, but many major manufacturers save their latest phone releases and launch dates for the fall season. Therefore, with 46 – 50 million tons of cellphones being thrown out every year – equating to 151 million cell phones – improper disposal could cause these scrap materials eat up space in landfills which prompts more pollution. To avoid this, it is critical to understand the process of cell phones recycling. In fact, cell phones contain 80% of recyclable metals or reusable parts.

Not just cell phones, but other eWaste continuously increases worldwide as outdated electronics are replaced. Electronics recycling offers numerous benefits to mankind and the environment including reducing environmental pollution and lowered use of raw materials. Even with work-from-home, most still use some sort of office equipment. Scrap printers, desktops, networking equipment, servers, and other electronics can be bought for some cash.

3. Car Batteries
3. Car Batteries

3. Car Batteries

When winter weather approaches, consumers will want to prep their vehicles for the drop in temperatures. For example, drivers typically check oil levels, replace windshield wipers, and examine belts and hoses for damage.

Or you might replace your aging lead-acid auto battery. Those who recycle old batteries assist in reducing waste – up to 99% of a lead-acid battery is recyclable – and reduce the need to use new raw materials and components. In fact, these batteries contain acids; toxic acids such as sulfuric acid which is very corrosive. Therefore, because of the acid content, it is highly advisable not to try recycling used lead-acid auto batteries by yourself.

Another car battery that is becoming more popular is the electric vehicle battery. Interco recycles electric vehicle batteries. Additionally, Interco remains the largest EV battery recycler in North America, if not the world.

Interco Can Handle All Your Fall Recycling Needs

Founded in 1996, Interco has grown from an electronic scrap recycling company to a comprehensive processor and recycler handling nonferrous, industrially generated metal-bearing complex residues, most battery chemistries, and catalysts.

This fall season consider recycling your scrap and other materials to help benefit the environment. With a staff of 100 full time employees, Interco receives, processes, upgrades, repackages and ships approximately 15,000 tons of material monthly. Interco is centrally located on the Illinois-side of St. Louis on a 45-acre industrial complex comprised of 7 buildings with 450,000 square feet of warehouse space.

If you are interested in recycling scrap materials with Interco, please click here.

Interco Continues to Lead Responsible Recycling

Interco Continues to Lead Responsible Recycling
Interco Continues to Lead Responsible Recycling

Interco Continues to Lead Responsible Recycling

Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI) has announced through the newly released R2v3 Standard. An update to the “Sustainable Electronics Reuse & Recycling (R2) Standard,”  recognized by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Additionally, the organization claims that it is the “only approved American National Standard for responsible electronics reuse and recycling.”

Interco is proud to continue as a R2 certified provider.

Adopted by the SERI Board of Directors by a unanimous vote — R2v3 — is the next evolution of the R2 Standard.

Prior to the news release, Interco became the second electronics refurbishing and recycling company in the world to achieve the coveted Responsible Recycling R2v3 Standard Certification, managed by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI). Furthermore, it is significant that the R2v3 Standard offered general principles and practices for IT equipment disposal vendors.

Each year, Interco continues to comply with the regulations in this standard. Proposed changes to the updated R2v3 standard include new structure, requirements strengthened in key areas, and clarifies requirements and expectations.

Interco’s History with the R2 Standard
Interco’s History with the R2 Standard

Interco’s History with the R2 Standard

Certified R2 Facilities requires an audit. Additionally, certification entails organizations to meet all the R2 core requirements, as well as, R2 process requirements.

R2v3 Standard Focus Materials:

  1. PCBS
  2. Mercury Containing Material
  3. CRTs and CRT Glass
  4. Batteries
  5. Circuit Boards and Circuit Board Containing Material

The list of focus materials is an significant piece of the R2v3 Standard. So, companies must dispose of materials properly. As corporations export more and more materials, the demand for proper disposal becomes even more grave. Nobody wants to absorb the liability or take responsibility for the contamination of the environment home or abroad.  In addition, the long-term health consequences from ignoring this problem is far too great. Maintaining the highest standards of care with the proper documentation and processes is crucial for a greener legacy.

Furthermore, another important piece of the certification process is the management of focus materials. This includes supply chain management from the acquisition of the materials to the recycler to the movement of the materials to their final disposition. For example, if Company A purchases circuits boards and then sells them to Company BCompany A must audit Company B to make sure that B is properly handling the material. If Company B sells to Company CCompany A must know the practices that Company C enlists, as well.

In short, the R2 Standard forces a company to follow their electronic material to an end-consumer. Companies must track how the downstream companies use materials to create new products.

Interco Leads the Industry in Responsible Recycling Practices
Interco Leads the Industry in Responsible Recycling Practices

Interco Leads the Industry in Responsible Recycling Practices

Overall, it is important to note that Interco is a leading North American nonferrous scrap metals recycling company located just across the river from St. Louis in Madison, Illinois. Interco recycles mixed scrap loads. In addition, our suppliers can ship a truckload of material (usually 40,000+ pounds) – with any combination of the above items. There is no minimum quantity per item, they just need separation either by bale or by gaylord box.

To learn more about Interco’s mixed scrap recycling services, click here.

Lithium Ion Battery Recycling

What are Lithium Ion Batteries?

Lithium ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery. They are the main power source for things like:

Lithium Ion Battery Recycling

Some metals that make up lithium ion batteries include nickel, cobalt and copper. There are also different types of these batteries that contain…

  • Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2)
  • Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (NCA)
  • Also, Lithium Nickel Manganese Oxide (NMC)

Eventually, lithium ion batteries slow down and must be replaced. This is usually due to aging, overuse and overcharging. Hence, recycling lithium ion batteries is crucial to reusing valuable materials, reducing space occupied in landfills, protecting natural resources and reducing pollution. There is even a potential profit to be made by selling used lithium ion batteries to Interco for recycling. Interco sells these batteries too.

Now that lithium ion batteries themselves have been examined, it is vital to understand the recycling of lithium ion batteries process.

How to Recycle Lithium Ion Batteries

In order to reuse the valuable materials contained within lithium ion batteries, one must understand lithium ion battery recycling. This process consists of:

Lithium Ion Battery Recycling
  • First, recycling companies buying or selling scrap lithium ion batteries. As a result, they obtain cobalt, nickel and copper.
  • Then, these companies deactivate the batteries. This must happen before the recycling procedure begins.
  • Afterwards, the recycler places the lithium ion batteries in a special room. Consequently, this room is oxygen-free.
  • Subsequently, the process of extracting metals from their ores occurs (this is called hydrometallurgy).
  • Next, the process of using aqueous solutions to extract metal from other metal bearing materials occurs (this is called leaching).
  • Furthermore, the battery components are separated into three different categories. These categories include cobalt, steel and aluminum, copper and plastic.
  • Finally, recycling companies sell the recycled materials.

Since the recycling procedure has been discussed, one must understand why it is so necessary to recycle lithium ion batteries.

The Importance of Lithium Ion Battery Recycling

The recycling of lithium ion batteries provides several positive environmental impacts. Lithium ion battery recycling:

Lithium Ion Battery Recycling
  • Reuses valuable materials
  • Reduces space occupied in landfills
  • Protects natural resources
  • Reduces pollution

There are several reusable materials within lithium ion batteries including cobalt, nickel and copper. By reusing these materials, less space is occupied in landfills which protect natural resources. Subsequently, this leads to overall pollution being reduced.

People, organizations and governments are all moving toward a greener world. Recycling of lithium ion batteries is huge step forward in making this goal a reality.

Conclusion

Lithium ion batteries are a power source for electric vehicles, solar power storage, power tools and more. They also contain an abundance of reusable materials. Recycling lithium ion batteries reuses valuable materials, reduces space occupied in landfills, protects natural resources and more. Interco even purchases and sells lithium ion batteries to anyone interested in selling or buying.

To learn more how professionals recycle lithium ion batteries, click here to contact Interco.