Changes in Used Oil Filter Recycling
In the automotive industry, products are continuously evolving and improving. Automakers release updated models every year with the latest advancements in technology and engineering.
As the classic muscle cars of the 60’s evolved into the sleek, high-tech vehicles of today one constant remained relatively unchanged over the decades — metal encased oil filters.
Filter media (materials inside the metal casing that filter oil) has improved over the years with the advent of new synthetic fibers. However, the design of the spin-on filter has largely been unaffected – until recently. Automotive manufacturers are increasingly adopting lighter, cheaper and more efficient paper only oil filters that are not encased in metal. So, how does this affect used oil filter recycling?
Used Oil Filter Recycling Regulation Changes in California
Oil and fuel filters encased in a metal canister are largely recycled to recover reusable metal. Once the used oil and fuel filters are properly drained, they can be recycled under the Cal DTSC and USEPA 40CFR Section 261.6 (a)(iv) as scrap metal.
The used paper only filters are managed as Non-RCRA California Hazardous waste, just like other oil debris. Paper only filters, along with used absorbents, are recycled as a source of fuel at an energy recovery facility.
As used metal-encased and paper only filters have different hazardous waste classifications, transportation, and labeling requirements, they may not be co-mingled in the same recycling collection container.
New Used Oil Filter Collection Recommendations:
- Do not store used oil filters with a metal casing and used oil filters made of paper only in the same drum.
- Store the used oil and fuel filters encased in metal in a separate drum.
- Either store the paper only used oil filters in a separate drum by themselves or co-mingle them with used absorbents.
Used oil filters encased in metal and paper only oil filters should be stored in separate containers. Image credit: studiovin/Shutterstock
Quest Resource Management Group (Quest)— a subsidiary of Quest Resource Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: QRHC) — is a trusted partner of some the leading dealerships, automotive groups and service providers across the nation. More than used oil filter recycling, Quest helps clients recycle used motor oil, used antifreeze, scrap tires, airbags and more.
Feature image credit: Alex459/Shutterstock
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