Sandvik introduces first ‘opt-out’ carbide recycling

Earlier this month, Sandvik introduced an industry-first ‘opt-out’ recycling program for customers of carbide drill bits. The initiative aims to transform the use of a material expected to run out within 40 to 100 years if consumption rates continue unabated.

Sandvik aims to collect 90% of its own used bits by 2025. Other manufacturers’ used bits can also be recycled within the scope of the new initiative.

With tungsten being a key component in cemented carbide, it is considered scarce and finite material. Making tools from recycled carbide requires 70% less energy and emits 64 percent less CO2. It also reduces nitrous oxide emissions.

The demand for certain minerals is estimated to grow 500% by 2050 according to a report by the World Bank group, and recycling of drill bits is an important part of making the mining industry more sustainable. Historically, carbide recycling has faced several challenges such as the collection of used products being limited, while carbide extraction has been inefficient in the past and involved hazardous ways of working.

“Our breakthrough opt-out program supports our customers’ drive to mine more sustainably and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on Sandvik’s ambitious sustainability goals to halve CO2 emissions by 2030,” said Jens Holmberg, president of Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions’ Rock Tools division. “We are determined to lead the industry into a new era, fully committed to embed circularity across an essential component of mining.

Customer response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Holmberg said. “We need to transition our industry at an unprecedented speed. Our recycling program is one of many new initiatives you will see from Sandvik’s Rock Tools division moving forward. We are an industry leading supplier in mining globally, and we need to do everything in our power to support and push the industry forward.”

To learn more, visit www.home.sandvik.