The circular economy implementation of liquid nitriding production lines through waste recycling
Liquid nitriding is a technology that has been offered by HEF for over 60 years. This technology is a thermochemical surface treatment improving wear resistance, corrosion protection and enhancing lifespan of treated parts. This well-known treatment is applied to steel parts in demanding industries such as automotive, agriculture, defense, construction and handling vehicles.
This process generates waste that requires specific management. HEF is implementing a circular economy approach by recycling its waste and reducing its environmental impact.
Environmental challenges related to liquid nitriding waste
Like all chemical processes, liquid nitriding produces waste that impacts the environment; numerous regulations impose strict requirements for industrial waste management. Over the last few years, HEF has developed an innovative industrial process to transform its waste into directly usable consumables.
Circular economy: A sustainable alternative
The circular economy is based on the principle of reusing and valorizing resources instead of treating them as waste to be eliminated. In the case of liquid nitriding waste, this means not only reducing their volume but also finding ways to transform them into usable resources.
Waste recycling
This recycling involves regenerating the waste from the salt baths used for nitriding. Chemical processes allow the waste to be revalorized into new consumables for production lines, reducing the consumption of raw materials. Additionally, this reduced consumption offers independence from the financial fluctuations in raw material markets.
Challenges in implementing circular economy for liquid nitriding
The transition to a circular economy management system for liquid nitriding waste has been complex. Here are some of the challenges that have been addressed:
- · Technical complexity, requiring an unprecedented and highly innovative process.
- · Strict regulatory requirements related to waste transportation.
- · High economic investments, including the construction of Green Centers.
Towards a more sustainable future
The adoption of circular economy practices within the HEF group helps reduce the environmental impacts its technologies, provides economic benefits, and strengthens its competitiveness.
