Total destruction of PCB transformers

A description is presented of resource recovery, a PCB transformer destruction process. Not only does the process destroy all PCBs, but it also yields recyclable metals. An askarel transformer (or one with level of PCB contamination) arrives at the facility, where it is drained (if the unit arrives full) and off-loaded. The internals of the transformer are then solvent washed to remove gross amounts of PCBs. After the component parts are disassembled (i.e. core, coils, tank), they are solvent cleaned to <10 mu g PCB/100 cm/sup 2/. The solvent is distilled to <2 p.p.m. for reuse. The wood, paper, and still bottoms are sent out for incineration. The aluminum is smelted, the steel is prepared at the facility and shipped directly to a smelter, thus bypassing scrap yards and their inherent PCB problems, and the copper is prepared and sold on the commodities market. The PCB transformer owner receives a Certificate of Destruction certifying that all the owner's PCBs have been destroyed.<
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