What happens to the metals in recycled fridges?

Introduction to refrigerator recycling

Recycled refrigerators go through a process that involves the extraction and reuse of metal materials, contributing to environmental preservation and saving natural resources. Understanding what happens to these metals is fundamental to appreciating the importance of recycling and its advantages.

Separation of metallic materials

When refrigerators are discarded, they are sent to specialized centers where ferrous and non-ferrous metals are separated. Parts such as steel sheets make up the ferrous metal, while aluminum and copper are examples of non-ferrous metals present in internal components. The initial separation is essential to guarantee the quality and viability of the recycling process.

Dismantling and metal extraction process

The mechanical dismantling of refrigerators removes plastic parts, electronic components and insulators before the metals are extracted. These metals are then crushed and sent for smelting. This stage makes it possible to transform the metals from the fridges into pure raw materials ready for new uses.

Smelting and reusing the metals

In the foundry, the metals from the recycled fridges are heated until they become liquid, allowing impurities to be removed. Subsequently, these molten metals are solidified into blocks or ingots that will be sent to the manufacturing industry. In this way, the metals return to the production cycle, helping to make new products, such as new household appliances, cars and building materials.

Environmental benefits of recycling metals

Recycling the metals from refrigerators significantly reduces the extraction of ores, reducing the environmental impact caused by mining. In addition, the process requires less energy than obtaining virgin metals, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Another important benefit is the reduction in the volume of waste in landfills, promoting more sustainable disposal.

Legislation and responsibility in disposal

The correct disposal of refrigerators is regulated by environmental standards that guarantee the proper disposal of materials, especially metals. This precaution prevents the contamination of soil and water by substances present in electronic components and refrigerant gases. Responsible recycling contributes to a sustainable and conscious chain.

Final considerations

The metals in recycled refrigerators go through a careful process that involves separation, dismantling, smelting and reuse, guaranteeing the transformation of this waste into new products. Recycling these materials brings numerous environmental and economic benefits, as well as promoting sustainability and the circular economy.