What do copper recycling and data centers have in common?
The digital age of technology relies on them both.
The data center industry is skyrocketing, and with it so is the need for copper to create new computers, servers, and other data center electronics.
But copper is a finite resource, and without electronic recycling to extract this valuable metal from old devices, we won’t be able to produce new electronics to keep up with the demand.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of recycling and take a closer look at…
- Projected growth for the data center industry
- Relationship between copper & data collection technology
- Environmental impact of electronic waste
- The best way to extract & recycle copper
Let’s get started!
The Growing Data Center Industry
How many times has your phone or computer notified you that something has been “Saved to the Cloud?”
While this may invoke a mental image of our photos, reports, and other data floating around in the sky, this is far from the truth.
The “Cloud” is another word for data centers. And thanks to the fast evolution of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, the data center industry is on the rise. In fact, the industry is projected to grow 20% annually.
But this fast growth also means that technologies quickly become outdated and in need of an upgrade.
Think about it: Does it feel like every time you get a new cell phone an even newer model comes out a month later?
The same rapid progressiveness applies to data centers as well.
But what does this have to do with copper?
The Importance of Copper Recycling for Data Centers
Data centers rely on copper to run.
If you were to split a computer, server, or any other technological unit at a data center in half, you’d be surprised by how much copper you’d find inside.
From copper wires to tiny electrical components, here are the primary ways data collection facilities use copper in their tech:
- Power cables
- Busbars
- Electrical connectors
- Heat exchangers
- Heat sinks
- Power Distribution Strips
But what makes this metal so special?
Data centers choose copper due to its versatility. Not only are they one of the best electrical conductors, but they’re also great thermal conductors and are very malleable.
Electrical Conductivity
Copper is a primary material for electrical cables and networking wires in data centers. It ensures high-speed data transfer and reliable power distribution.
Thermal Conductivity
Copper is used in cooling systems, including heat sinks and thermal management components, due to its excellent thermal conductivity.
Ductility
Copper is very malleable, allowing it to be shaped and compacted into small areas, making it suitable for many electronic applications.
While copper is a key resource for data collection facilities, it’s also a finite resource.
If we want to create more tech to keep up with the influx of data and evolving tech, we MUST recycle our old tech to prolong the lifespan of copper so we can reuse it in the future.
If we don’t recycle what we already have, then we won’t be able to produce more electronics!
Not only does copper recycling minimize the risk of serious shortages, but it’s also critical for the environment.
Environmental Impact of Data Center Waste
Data centers, while essential for our digital lives, have a hidden environmental cost.
Their waste includes e-waste from outdated servers and hardware, which often contains hazardous materials like lead and mercury. And failure to dispose of these materials later on can lead to:
- Soil contamination
- Water contamination
- Loss of valuable resources, resulting in a shortage
- Increased energy consumption to produce new products
To mitigate these impacts, data centers should focus on enhancing recycling programs to extract valuable metals such as copper.
By adopting a recycling practice, the industry can reduce its environmental footprint and support a more sustainable future.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at how you can start.
How to Extract & Recycle Copper from Data Centers
The best way to follow proper copper recycling practices as a data center is to trust your tech with a professional electronic waste management company.
With years of experience, proper machinery, and accreditations, e-waste recycling companies take all the stress out of recycling. All you need to do is pick up the phone and call, and they’ll handle the rest.
Copper Recycling Process
Here’s the copper recycling process that e-waste management companies follow when it comes to extracting this valuable material from data collection centers:
Step 1: Collection and Sorting
- Identify and Extract: Safely extract data from old tech, eliminating the risk of company data leaks. Next, locate copper materials (cables, connectors) and disassemble equipment.
- Clean and Sort: Remove insulation and sort by grade.
Step 2: Processing
- Shredding: Break down materials into smaller pieces.
- Separation: Use techniques like magnetic separation to isolate copper.
Step 3: Refining
- Smelting: Melt copper to purify it into ingots or pellets.
- Electrolytic Refining: Further purify through electrolysis.
Step 4: Dispose of Waste
- Proper Disposal: Manage non-recyclable or hazardous waste according to regulations.
Step 5: Reuse
- New Tech: Copper is now ready to be distributed to tech manufacturers to create new electronics.
The best part about this process? You don’t need to do anything except pick up the phone and schedule your e-waste pick-up appointment!
Copper Recycling: Find an Electronic Scrap Company Near You
If you’re looking to eliminate your company’s e-waste you need to find an e-waste management and recycling company you can trust.
Find one that is licensed, insured, and can safely extract all your valuable data from your old tech, eliminating the risk of data leaks.
At GLE, our insured team has been effectively and safely recycling e-waste and copper for over 20 years. We will come to your facility and pick up your old tech, safely and effectively extracting data and recycling your electronics.
Call us today at 855-SCRAP-88 to learn more about our copper recycling process.
