Sorting and Consolodating

Once the batteries are sorted they are consolidated in to viable loads...

We all use portable batteries everyday. Mostly we are unaware that there is a battery until it stops working. Part of the service that "Loddon Waste Management" offers is to sort the batteries by size and chemistry - this allows us to provide accurate information on the wastes collected.

Below are some examples of battery chemistries and in which type of appliance you could expect to find them:

• Alkaline Zinc Carbon
  These are non rechargeable batteries which are used in most household appliances, examples are remote controls for TV´s, video recorders etc, torches & toys.
• Ni-Cd
  (Nickel Cadmium). These are rechargeable and were once used in mobile phones but now mainly power tools and small rechargeable toys.
• Ni-Mh
  (Nickel Metalhydride). This chemistry is not used as much as lithium Ion but can be found in mobile phones, Power tools & radio communication equipment
• Li-Ion
  (Lithium Ion). Due to the flexibility of this battery is has become very popular in the mobile phone industry as it can be shaped. Commonly used in mobile phones, MP3 players, laptops, power tools & radio equipment
• Lithium primary
  These are used frequently in life saving equipment and beacons on life boats etc.
• Button Cells
  The button cells used where size is an issue and is commonly found in watches, hearing aids & Laptop computers

Flow Diagram to assist in determining battery type

• Automotive Battery
  Is it intended to be used for automotive starter, lighting or ignition power?
• Industrial battery
  Is it sealed?
• Industrial battery
  Can it be hand-carried by a typical adult without difficulty?
• Portable (Button) Battery
  Is it a small round portable battery whose diameter is greater than its height and used for special purposes?
• Industrial battery
  Is it designed for exclusively industrial or professional use or used in any type of electrical vehicle?
• Portable Battery

With no reliable mechanical sorting available all batteries received have to be sorted manually. Once the batteries are sorted they are consolidated in to viable loads before being shipped to the recycling facility.