In this Hurco customer spotlight, Lynn Glover shares his experience with his Hurco 5-axis CNC. Glover Precision is a woman-owned, AS9100-certified machining facility located in Phoenix, Arizona.

Up to 95 per cent of the material in a typical carbide insert can be reclaimed, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the metal cutting industry.

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 globally has received over a half million pounds (226,796 kg) of carbide returned as grade powder.

In addition to the environmental benefits of recycling, Seco’s Carbide Recycling Program helps to address the growing global demand for tungsten, which comprises 75 per cent of cemented carbide tools.

"We are deeply committed to sustainability and being a leader in environmental initiatives," explained Robert Keenan, president of Seco Tools, LLC. "It’s an important part of our corporate culture that is integrated throughout everything we do. Plus, our customers appreciate the opportunity this program provides to them to contribute to a cleaner, safer environment."

The National Association of Business Resources named Seco one of "Michigan’s Best and Brightest Sustainable Companies" this past year. Seco was also recognized with the 2014 National Best and Brightest Sustainable Companies Award.

Easily access valuable industry resources now with full access to the digital edition of Canadian Metalworking.

Easily access valuable industry resources now with full access to the digital edition of Canadian Fabricating & Welding.

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 the large 30-gallon drums accommodate approximately 2,000 pounds (910 kg). Any carbide products can be placed in the containers, including carbide inserts, solid drills, solid end mills, wear parts and PCD/PCBN-tipped inserts. Seco periodically collects the containers and pays manufacturers at the market rate for the carbide that is returned.

In 2014, Seco Tools collected 15 percent more used carbide than the previous year for its North American Carbide Recycling Program.

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Seco says recycling reduces related energy consumption by 35 per cent and cuts CO2 emissions by 40 per cent.

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Companies participating in the recycling program represent a cross section of industries and regions. Major customers include John Deere, GE, Manes Machine, MessierDowty, Haas Automation, Caterpillar, Ellwood National Crankshift, American Axle, Snap-On, NOV, and NTK Precision Axle.

Keep up to date with the latest news, events, and technology for all things metal from our pair of monthly magazines written specifically for Canadian manufacturers!

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