Friday 9 September 2016

Understanding The Recycling Of 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.

If you're interested in recycling, you can start by searching for relevant programs over the internet. After you sign up on one of these, you should receive a shipping label in your mail. You could also contact a local recycler and enquire if you could drop off your items there. All the devices should then be collected and placed in a padded postal container attached with the mailing label.

If your offer gets accepted, you will receive payment for the items you sent in a pre-disclosed form. And in most cases, you will be required to use priority boxes, with the devices enclosed in tough plastic bags. This then needs to be taped to reinforce security and placed in a box whose surfaces are also sealed.

Different programs will have their own unique method of calculating payment. The elements commonly used to determine value include type, age and size of sensors sent. These are then considered in light of the prevailing state of demand for platinum. Because all these elements tend to change from time to time, the amount one can get for their shipment will also vary.

That said, you could start a small business by collecting worn out O2 sensors and selling them to recyclers for some money. Whether you're junking your old motor or simply need to replace a worn-out unit, this venture could help you generate some extra cash without taking up too much effort. However, it should be remembered that some of the materials contained in such items pose health risks for humans. As such, only an experienced professional would be well-equipped to safely recover the precious metals.

If you've been thinking of how you could make extra cash, you'd be happy to know of the opportunity that lies in recycling. All you need to do is start collecting scrap O2 sensors and sell them to recyclers. By involving more people in such programs, huge strides will be made in achieving sustainability.




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