Case study highlights copper-saving techniques

A new case study from Envirowise describes how APW Electronics implemented a copper reduction and recovery programme.

Copper-containing waste is a major problem for printed wiring board and other electronics manufacturing companies.

A new case study from Envirowise, "Copper recovery cuts costs and waste", describes how APW Electronics implemented a copper reduction and recovery programme to reduce copper levels in its trade effluent and to reduce the amount of copper waste requiring disposal.

This case study (CS286) outlines the ten-year copper reduction and recovery programme which included installing three electrolytic recovery cells, reducing the amount of copper-bearing wastewater generated, recycling copper from deflash, and taking action to reduce water use.

Cost savings of over GBP 43 000/year have been achieved through reduced waste disposal charges, reduced water supply costs, reduced trade effluent charges and the sale of recovered copper.

In addition, the copper reduction and recovery programme has significantly reduced the amount of copper discharged to sewer.

Back to top