Seco's recycling program expands

Seco Tools LLC, Troy, Mich., 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 pounds (65,715 kg) of used carbide tools. Since the recycling program began in 2011, Seco Tools has received over a half million pounds (226,796 kg) of used carbide. 

In 2014, The National Association of Business Resources presented Seco with its 2014 National Best and Brightest Sustainable Companies award, celebrating 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," said Robert Keenan, president of Seco Tools. "It's an important part of our corporate culture. Plus, our customers appreciate the opportunity this program provides 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 pounds (5 kg) of carbide, medium 1-gallon containers hold approximately 50 pounds (23 kg), and 30-gallon drums accommodate approximately 2,000 pounds (910 kg). Any carbide products can be placed in the containers, including carbide inserts, solid-carbide drills, solid-carbide endmills, wear parts and PCD/PCBN-tipped inserts. Seco periodically collects the containers and pays manufacturers at the market rate for the carbide returned. 

In addition to the environmental benefits of recycling, Seco's Carbide Recycling Program helps 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 ensure the long-term sustainability of the metalcutting industry. Recycling also reduces related energy consumption by 35 percent and cuts CO2 emissions by 40 percent, according to the company.  

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.