How to Recycle CNC Machine Tools & Cutting Tools
Worn carbide cutting tools, end mills, drill bits, and inserts from machining operations. Contains tungsten carbide worth $3-15 per pound when recycled. US manufacturing generates 50+ million pounds annually, with specialized recycling achieving 85% tungsten recovery for new tool production.
- 1Sort tools by material type - separate carbide from high-speed steel tools
- 2Remove tools from tool holders and chuck systems
- 3Clean tools of cutting fluids and metal chips using appropriate solvents
- 4Separate whole tools from broken pieces for optimal processing
- 5Keep carbide inserts separate from solid carbide tools
- 6Remove any brazing material or steel shanks from carbide tools
- 7Package in sturdy containers to prevent damage during transport
- 8Document tool specifications and approximate carbide content
- 9Avoid mixing with general scrap metal to maintain recycling value
- Specialized carbide recyclers (Carbide Recycling, Tungco)
- Tool manufacturers with take-back programs (Sandvik, Kennametal, Mitsubishi)
- Industrial metal recyclers with carbide processing
- Machine shop service companies
- Cutting tool distributors and regrinding services
- Scrap metal dealers specializing in industrial materials
Carbide dust is hazardous when airborne - use dust collection systems during grinding operations. Cobalt binder in carbide tools may require reporting under SARA Title III. Keep cutting tools separate from general scrap to maximize recycling value and prevent contamination.
Tungsten mining causes significant environmental damage in China and other producing regions. Recycling carbide tools recovers 85% of tungsten, reducing mining pressure. Each pound recycled saves 15 pounds of tungsten ore processing and associated environmental impacts including water pollution and habitat destruction.
Accepted
- Solid carbide cutting tools and end mills
- Carbide inserts and indexable tools
- Carbide-tipped tools and reamers
- Tungsten carbide wear parts and dies
- Carbide saw blades and cutting wheels
- High-speed steel cutting tools (lower value)
Not Accepted
- Tools heavily contaminated with cutting fluids or oils
- Carbide tools brazed to steel (unless separation feasible)
- Coated tools where coating interferes with recycling
- Tools containing radioactive materials (certain welding electrodes)
- Mixed metal cutting tools of unknown composition
Estimated value: $3-15 per pound for carbide tools depending on grade and condition; HSS tools: $0.50-2/lb
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Cobalt binder in tungsten carbide (respiratory sensitizer, carcinogen)
- Tungsten particles (respiratory irritant in dust form)
- Titanium and aluminum coatings on some tools
- Cutting fluid residues containing biocides and additives
How do I identify carbide tools vs. high-speed steel?
Carbide tools are much harder, heavier, and don't spark when ground. They often have a gray metallic appearance vs. steel's darker color. Magnet test: carbide is weakly magnetic, steel is strongly magnetic.
Are coated carbide tools recyclable?
Yes, but coatings (TiN, TiAlN, diamond) may affect recycling value. Some facilities can process coated tools, others prefer uncoated. Check with recyclers about their capabilities and pricing differences.
Can broken carbide tools be recycled?
Absolutely. Broken tools are often easier to process than whole tools. Small chips and pieces are valuable - collect all carbide debris from tool changes and accidents for recycling.
What's the difference in value between carbide grades?
Straight tungsten carbide commands highest prices. Tools with significant cobalt binder, titanium, or other additives may have lower value. Clean, uncoated tools typically bring premium pricing.
Should I remove carbide inserts from steel holders?
Yes, separating materials maximizes value. Carbide inserts are worth $5-15/lb while steel holders are worth $0.10-0.30/lb. Separation increases total recycling revenue significantly.
How does the carbide recycling process work?
Tools are crushed and processed through chemical reclamation or powder metallurgy routes. Tungsten is recovered as powder and reprocessed into new carbide products with performance equal to virgin material.
Are there minimum quantities for carbide tool recycling?
Most recyclers accept quantities from 10 pounds up. Smaller amounts may be accumulated until minimum quantities are reached. Larger volumes (100+ lbs) typically get better pricing.
Can regrindable tools be recycled instead of reground?
Compare economics: regrinding extends tool life 3-5 times at $5-15 per tool. When tools can't be reground further, recycling recovers $3-15/lb material value.