Friday, September 9, 2016

What You Need To Know About Recycling Scrap Oxygen Sensors

By Harold Evans


Almost every modern vehicle has an O2 sensor as part of an emission control mechanism installed in the catalytic converter. This device plays a crucial role of balancing the air-fuel ratio to achieve optimal performance. Because it's a consumable, the oxygen sensor will wear with use, eventually needing replacement. When this is done, the scrap oxygen sensors can be recycled to reclaim some of the materials.

One of the materials used in the manufacture of oxygen sensors is platinum. This precious metal has some unique attributes that make it highly suitable for use in such areas. These include the capability to resist oxidation, even at high temperatures, as well as excellent anti-corrosion properties. To reduce the impact left by extraction processes on the environment, authorities have placed restrictions on platinum mining. As a result, effort has been dedicated towards recycling as a viable source to satisfy the ever-rising demand for the precious metal.

A number of firms have invested in infrastructure, equipment and facilities to efficiently recover platinum from the devices. Thanks to vigorous marketing campaigns, you may have heard about the importance of recycling such items. The companies will gladly accept any quantity, albeit with a few directives in terms of packaging and delivery.

People interested in getting into such programs can start by first searching for a suitable option available in their area. Generally, one is required to log into a website and sign up for the program. If you're accepted, the firm will send you a shipping label via mail. This label is meant to be used to ship the package containing the items back to the company. But if this appears to be too much of a hassle, you could instead opt to use local recycling plants.

You may then receive a card or check for the value of the sent units. Most programs recommend priority mail boxes, with the items enclosed in a strong plastic bag. This should be taped securely before it's placed in the box. All surfaces on the box should be sealed sufficiently to avoid spillage.

Recycling programs will vary greatly across different firms. Generally, your package will be examined to view the age, size and type of items you've sent. These factors, along with current market price of platinum, will determine how much you'll receive as payment. And due to the fluctuating nature of all these variables, you can expect the amount to vary accordingly.

Individuals can use the existing opportunities in platinum recycling to make money by salvaging old O2 sensors. Whether you're simply replacing a worn-out device or scrapping an old car, this is a good revenue-generating channel that doesn't involve much input. The firms are well-equipped to efficiently salvage any useful material while properly handling the various risks that some of them possess.

In a world where natural resources continue diminishing with time, the relevance of recycling has increasingly risen. By handing worn out O2 sensors to a professional recycler, you'll be playing your part in helping efforts made towards achieving sustainability. And because the salvaging process involves significant resources and expertise, only such companies have the capacity to safely recover the materials.




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