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Recycling systems company Fercell Engineering Ltd has discovered a new, efficient waste management solution for aluminium-based swarfs – fine chips or filings of metal produced by computer numerical control (CNC) machining and drilling processes.
Swarfs are leading to high volumes of waste material in the industry, which in turn lead to environmental costs, fire hazards and wasted revenue – a disaster for local businesses working within the aluminium processing sector.
Fercell has come up with a briquette pressing machine that shreds swarfs before pressing them into briquettes, which reduces the amount of storage space needed, and makes the recovered metal easier to transport and much more attractive to recycling companies.
Furthermore, by processing the shredded swarfs via a centrifuge within the briquette press, expensive coolants such as oil and emulsion can be separated from the swarfs and reused.
Commenting on the innovation, Mark Fletcher, Managing Director of Fercell Engineering, said: “Here is a huge wasted opportunity for manufacturers using aluminium. These swarfs are just seen as a nuisance and are often discarded, when returns on this waste can be reaped back, as well as it having a positive effect on the environment.”
More information can be found on Fercell's website.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.