Synergy Recycling Starts New Processing System

Synergy’s new processing line includes two shredders, a series of magnets to separate steel, a non-ferrous processing line and a specific process for plastic.

Synergy says the new system is capable of handling up to 30 tons of electronic scrap per hour, which will allow the company to expand its volume dramatically. It is capable of destroying all confidential data on hard drives, copiers, printers, computers and other types of equipment and allows the company to recycle or re-use about 99 percent of all materials arriving at the facility, according to Synergy.

SGM and MTD, which have been known primarily for their separation technologies employed by auto and white goods shredders, began testing their equipment on electronics several years ago.

“We are pleased to be able to participate as a partner in Synergy’s success,” says Tom Valerio, MTD chief technology officer. “We wanted to become part of a really strong company that could prove our system’s effectiveness and could reproduce it across the country. Synergy brings the strength and vision we were looking for. We look forward to expanding Synergy’s reach into other regions.”

According to Didier Haegelsteen, managing director of SGM Magnetics, “Converting—in a profitable way—close to 99 percent of electronic scrap into recyclable or re-usable commodities is a natural defense against illegal export of electronics.”

Joe Clayton, Synergy director of sales, says, “This new process is a huge step forward, not just for Synergy, but also for electronics recycling generally. With the MTD and SGM technology now operating, we have a great solution for companies that do not want their end-of-life equipment exported to other countries, where it might be misused.” He adds, “We think businesses all over America will want to take advantage of this capability.”

Synergy Recycling is certified to the ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 standards, says Steve Earp, director of compliance for the company. “We also have applied for certification under the RIOS and R2 standards. We have completed the audits and have been recommended for certification, so we expect it soon.”

Earp adds, “Not only is Synergy committed to meeting these standards, but we also expect our downstream recyclers to have the same programs in place. Our goal is to ensure that our materials are handled properly throughout the recycling chain.”