The electronic scrap process is a three-stage process. The first stage of the electronic scrap process involves electronic scrap companies who collect the computer equipment on a local basis. This first stage of the electronic scrap process is focused on the re-use of computers rather than break-down of the computer into individual parts. This stage of the electronic scrap process separates out the reusable equipment and non-reusable equipment into their component parts.
As part of the electronic scrap process the electronic scrap or refurbishment companies sell the re-usable equipment. These components are then sent from the re-furbisher to the electronic scrap processor. The electronic scrap processor will dismantle the computer into smaller parts. Electronic scrap processors are primarily looking for the metals and plastics which can be recycled and re-used.
The second stage of the electronic scrap process is when the break-down of the computer into it’s individual components and parts can commence. As part of the electronic scrap process, computer monitors are broken down for their: glass on the monitor, the plastics in the casing and the copper in the power supply. This electronic scrap process also applies to the desktop.
The recycled plastics, recycled metals and recycled glass are then separated and shipped in bulk containers to specialist electronic scrap refiners who are involved in the third stage of the electronic scrap process.
The third stage involves electronic scrap refiners who specialize in melting materials for re-use.
Electronic scrap refineries are based throughout the world. Many, specialize in extracting the precious metals, which are on the electronic boards within a computer. Electronic scrap refineries will then sell these materials to primary users for the electronic scrap process to commence again.
