Like Batteries, UPS Systems Require Special Attention
UPS stands for Uninterrupted Power Supply/Source. UPS’s are backup batteries that provide emergency backup to systems, such as computers and computer networks. These power sources supply nearly instantaneous backup when power systems fail; however, they only do so for a limited amount of time.UPS stands for Uninterrupted Power Supply/Source. UPS’s are backup batteries that provide emergency backup to systems, such as computers and computer networks. These power sources supply nearly instantaneous backup when power systems fail; however, they only do so for a limited amount of time.
In most cases, when your power supply cuts out, the UPS battery backup provides an audible alarm and allows for a few minutes to prepare for the power outage. When it comes to sensitive computer and network equipment, this can be a lifesaver, preventing real damage to the system.
Surge protection is another function of a good UPS, regulating the quality of the power supply to your computers and peripherals. Many systems also incorporate data line protection, preventing power spikes from traveling across an ethernet cable or other broadband connection.
Batteries inside the UPS unit are rechargeable but, like most batteries, they have a limited life cycle.
UPS Recycling for IT Departments
For IT service companies and large IT departments, dealing with end-of-life UPS systems can become an ongoing hassle. While the batteries themselves have a service life of 3 to 5 years, take a large enough customer base and you will find yourself replacing UPS batteries all the time. In Alabama, Protec Recycling acts as a partner to IT companies in recycling UPS batteries. Our green, no landfill philosophy is attractive to cutting edge businesses.
Want to learn more? Give us a call at 205-549-2120.
One of the Most Recycled Batteries
A typical UPS uses valve-regulated lead-acid batteries, a type of battery that is very commonly recycled. In fact, between 2009-2013, 98% of lead-acid type batteries were recycled. That’s higher than any other industrial or consumer product!
The EPA imposes Federal Regulations on lead-acid battery disposal for good reason, as these units contain many chemicals toxic to people and the environment.
The Recycling Process
The process in which batteries are recycled is a fairly simple one.
-
- The acid in the batteries is neutralized.
- The lead is removed from the batteries and sometimes recycled into new products
- Any leftover parts that cannot be reused are safely disposed of.
Recycled Parts – Where do they go?
After the battery acid is neutralized, pieces are taken apart and used for new products. Plastic recycled from batteries can often be found in auto parts, plastic wheels and other plastic goods. The lead extracted from the batteries is often used in new batteries. Lead can also be used in TV screens, roofing materials, nuclear screening and military ammunition.
A majority, 80%, of new lead batteries are made from lead and plastic pieces from old batteries. Imagine how much waste we could avoid if we were able to reach these numbers with other products.
Protec Keeps IT Green
Need to recycle your UPS or other batteries? At Protec, we can handle any quantity of UPS batteries in need of recycling, and if you are in our direct service area around Birmingham, AL, we even offer full service pickup. Because we are a comprehensive electronics recycler, we make a good partner for IT companies big and small, as well as Data Centers and organizations with large IT infrastructures.
Protec safely recycles batteries and many other household products. For more information, call us at 205-549-2120, or visit our website at www.protecrecycling.com.
