Each year, 7 million window frames are replaced, 80% of which are UPVC window frames. Many perceive UPVC window frames as non-recyclable, and as a result, they end up in landfills. However, UPVC frames can actually be recycled and reused to manufacture new frames. Their lifespan can be significantly extended to help reduce waste, and they get stronger for the first 4 to 5 times it is recycled. UPVC window frames contain handles, hinges, and locks, typically made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or brass. Because these materials are mostly magnetic, magnetic separators make recycling these window frames much easier. Not only is magnetic separation useful for recycling, but it also prevents costly damages to equipment if metal materials are not removed.

How it Works

The metal in UPVC windows contains a mix of both ferrous and non-ferrous materials, which means several stages of metal separation are needed for successful recycling.  Here's how it works: 
  1. The material undergoes shredding to produce a coarse fraction.
  2. The material is placed through a separator with overband and drum magnets to remove ferrous materials. 
  3. Because stainless steel is often slightly demagnetized when shredded, another round of separation is needed because a typical overband magnet will not attract stainless steel.
  4. The material goes through HISC and SSSC magnetic separators, where a magnetic head pulley separates weakly magnetic material.
  5. The materials go through a gravity-fed metal detector to discard any remaining metal.  
After separation, the UPVC is further processed into a reusable powder, which can be recycled up to seven times without impacting its quality or weather resistance.

Apex Magnets: Purchase Custom Magnets for Separating 

At Apex Magnets, we can work with you to customize a magnet suited for your magnetic separating needs. We offer a wide range of strong neodymium and ceramic magnets, which are often used in magnetic separators because they require ongoing magnetism. Just fill out our custom order form, and we’ll provide you with a quote for free. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.