In today’s digital age, electronic waste (e-waste) has become one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally. Among the most challenging components to recycle are printed circuit boards (PCBs), found in everything from smartphones to industrial machinery. PCBs contain valuable metals like gold, silver, copper, and palladium—estimated to be worth over $10 billion annually in recyclable materials—but they also house toxic substances that threaten ecosystems if not processed properly.
Enter dry process PCB recycling equipment: a game-changing solution that avoids the water-intensive and chemically hazardous methods of traditional wet processing. By using mechanical separation, air classification, and electrostatic separation, dry process systems reduce energy consumption, eliminate wastewater treatment costs, and boost metal recovery rates—often exceeding 95% for key metals. As demand for sustainable recycling grows, manufacturers of these systems are stepping up with innovative, high-capacity solutions. Let’s explore the top 10 manufacturers leading this charge, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
How We Selected the Top Manufacturers
Our ranking is based on rigorous evaluation of five key factors: technical innovation (patented dry separation technologies), processing capacity (kg/hour efficiency), global market presence (customer base and regional reach), environmental compliance (ISO 14001, CE certifications), and post-sales support (installation, training, maintenance). Only manufacturers with a proven track record of delivering reliable, scalable dry process solutions made the list.
1. Welltech Environmental Machinery
With over 20 years in the recycling equipment industry, Welltech has cemented its reputation as a pioneer in dry process PCB recycling. Headquartered in China with offices in Europe and North America, the company specializes in turnkey solutions that handle the entire PCB recycling workflow—from shredding to metal separation.
Flagship Product: WCBD-2000A Circuit Board Recycling Plant with Dry Separator
This system stands out for its impressive 500-2000kg/hour capacity, making it ideal for mid-to-large scale recycling facilities. The heart of the WCBD-2000A is its compact granulator with dry separator, which uses a combination of size reduction and air classification to separate metal fractions from non-metallic materials (like resin and fiberglass). Welltech’s proprietary “multi-stage eddy current separation” ensures even fine gold particles are captured, with clients reporting up to 98% copper recovery and 95% precious metal recovery.
What truly sets Welltech apart is its focus on automation. The WCBD-2000A integrates smart sensors that adjust airflow and granulator speed in real-time, minimizing operator intervention. “We’ve reduced labor costs by 40% since installing Welltech’s system,” notes a German recycling firm. With over 500 installations across 40 countries, Welltech leads in global reach and reliability.
2. EcoRecycle Technologies
A relative newcomer but already making waves, EcoRecycle Technologies (ERT) was founded in 2015 by a team of materials scientists frustrated by the inefficiencies of existing dry process systems. Based in South Korea, ERT has quickly become a favorite among high-tech recyclers for its precision-engineered equipment.
Flagship Product: DrySep Pro Series Circuit Board Recycling Line
The DrySep Pro Series focuses on modularity, allowing recyclers to start small (300kg/hour) and scale up to 1500kg/hour by adding modules. Its core technology is a “vibratory air classifier” that uses tuned vibrations and laminar airflow to separate metals from plastics with pinpoint accuracy. ERT’s clients praise its low noise operation (under 85dB) and energy efficiency—consuming just 12kW per ton processed, 30% less than industry averages.
Notably, ERT offers a “try before you buy” program, letting recyclers test equipment with their own feedstock for 30 days. This customer-centric approach has earned them a 98% retention rate. “We tested three brands, and EcoRecycle’s system recovered 5% more gold than the others,” says a Japanese e-waste processor. With certifications in the EU, US, and Asia, ERT is rapidly expanding its global footprint.
3. GreenCycle Machinery Group
A stalwart in the recycling equipment space since 1998, GreenCycle Machinery Group (GCMG) based in Italy is renowned for its rugged, industrial-grade dry process systems. Catering primarily to large-scale recycling plants, GCMG’s equipment is built to handle mixed e-waste streams, including PCBs, cables, and electronic components.
Flagship Product: GCMG-DryPCB 3000
True to its name, the GCMG-DryPCB 3000 boasts a staggering 3000kg/hour capacity—the highest in the industry for a single-line dry process system. Its secret? A dual-stage shredding process (pre-shredder + fine granulator) followed by a triple-air classification system that separates metals into three fractions: ferrous, non-ferrous, and precious metals. The system’s PLC control panel allows remote monitoring via smartphone, a feature that has made it popular with multi-site operators.
GreenCycle’s commitment to durability is evident in its 5-year warranty on key components like granulator blades and separation chambers. “Our GCMG system has run 24/7 for three years with minimal downtime,” reports a Spanish recycling facility. While its price point is higher than competitors, GCMG justifies the investment with unmatched throughput and longevity.
4. UltraDry Tech Solutions
UltraDry Tech Solutions, based in the United States, has carved a niche for itself by specializing in compact, high-efficiency dry process systems for small-to-medium recyclers. Founded in 2010, the company recognized a gap in the market for equipment that delivers industrial-grade performance without the industrial footprint.
Flagship Product: UltraDry Mini 500
The UltraDry Mini 500 is a space-saving wonder, fitting into a 20ft container while still processing 500kg/hour of PCBs. Its patented “cyclonic separation” technology uses centrifugal force to separate metals, eliminating the need for large air compressors. This design reduces both energy use and maintenance—critical for smaller operations with limited technical staff. The system also includes a built-in dust collection unit, ensuring compliance with strict air quality standards like the EPA’s NESHAP regulations.
UltraDry’s focus on user-friendliness is apparent in its touchscreen interface, which guides operators through setup and troubleshooting with step-by-step instructions. “We trained our team in a day, and they were processing PCBs by the afternoon,” says a Canadian recycler. With over 200 installations in North America and Europe, UltraDry is proving that big performance can come in small packages.
5. CleanSep Environmental
CleanSep Environmental, a Singapore-based manufacturer, has made a name for itself with its cutting-edge dry process systems tailored for precious metal recovery. Leveraging Singapore’s expertise in precision engineering, CleanSep’s equipment is favored by recyclers focused on extracting gold, silver, and palladium from high-value PCBs like those found in servers and medical devices.
Flagship Product: CleanSep Precious 1500
The CleanSep Precious 1500 combines fine granulation (down to 0.5mm particle size) with electrostatic separation to capture even micro-sized precious metal particles. Its “nano-sensor sorting” technology uses near-infrared (NIR) sensors to detect and separate precious metal-rich fractions, boosting recovery rates to 99% for gold and silver. The system also includes a mercury-free refining module, addressing concerns about traditional smelting methods.
CleanSep’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its equipment: the company offsets 100% of its manufacturing carbon emissions and donates 5% of profits to e-waste education programs in developing countries. “We chose CleanSep not just for their tech, but for their values,” says a Swiss recycling cooperative. With a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, CleanSep is redefining responsible recycling.
6. DryProcess Innovations (DPI)
DryProcess Innovations (DPI), a German engineering firm, is synonymous with precision and innovation. Founded by a team of mechanical engineers from the Technical University of Munich, DPI prides itself on pushing the boundaries of dry separation technology.
Flagship Product: DPI-EcoShred Series
The DPI-EcoShred Series integrates a unique “airless electrostatic separator” that uses high-voltage static electricity to separate metals from non-metals without relying on airflow. This eliminates dust emissions and allows for precise control over separation, even with moisture-containing PCBs—a common challenge in humid climates. The system’s modular design also makes it easy to retrofit into existing recycling lines, a feature that has made it popular with facilities upgrading from wet process systems.
DPI’s R&D team releases annual upgrades, ensuring clients always have access to the latest technology. “We purchased our EcoShred in 2018 and have received three free software updates since then,” notes a Dutch recycler. With CE, UL, and ISO 9001 certifications, DPI is a trusted partner for quality-conscious operators.
7. ProCycle Systems
ProCycle Systems, based in Australia, has built its reputation on versatility. Unlike many competitors that focus solely on PCBs, ProCycle’s dry process systems can handle a range of e-waste, including circuit boards, cables, and lithium-ion batteries—making them a one-stop shop for multi-material recyclers.
Flagship Product: ProCycle MultiShred 2500
The ProCycle MultiShred 2500 features interchangeable processing modules that can be swapped in under an hour, allowing operators to switch from PCB recycling to cable recycling with minimal downtime. Its dry separation module uses a combination of magnetic separation, eddy current separation, and air classification to handle mixed materials. The system’s “auto-calibration” function adjusts settings based on feedstock composition, ensuring consistent results even with varying input.
ProCycle’s regional focus on the Asia-Pacific market has given it deep insights into local e-waste challenges, such as high humidity and mixed material streams. “Their support team in Melbourne responded to our query within 2 hours, even on a weekend,” reports an Australian recycling plant. With plans to expand into Africa and South America, ProCycle is poised for global growth.
8. AdvancedRecycling Equipment (ARE)
AdvancedRecycling Equipment (ARE), a US-based manufacturer, targets the mid-sized market with affordable, high-performance dry process systems. Founded in 2012, ARE has disrupted the industry by offering factory-direct pricing, cutting out distributors and passing savings to customers.
Flagship Product: ARE-DryLine 1500
The ARE-DryLine 1500 delivers 1500kg/hour capacity at a price point 20% lower than comparable systems. Its “simplified design” reduces the number of moving parts by 30%, lowering maintenance costs and downtime. Key features include a low-speed, high-torque granulator that minimizes dust generation and a self-cleaning air classifier that reduces clogging—a common issue in other systems.
ARE’s transparent pricing and no-hidden-fees policy have earned it a loyal customer base. “What you see on their website is what you pay—no surprise charges for installation or training,” says a US-based recycler. With a network of 20 service centers across North America, ARE ensures quick access to parts and support, making it a favorite for budget-conscious operators.
9. EcoDry Systems
EcoDry Systems, a Swedish manufacturer, is a leader in energy-efficient dry process PCB recycling. With Sweden’s strict environmental regulations as a backdrop, EcoDry has developed systems that prioritize low energy use and minimal carbon footprint.
Flagship Product: EcoDry ECO-2000
The EcoDry ECO-2000 uses a heat recovery system that captures and reuses energy from the granulation process, reducing overall energy consumption by 40%. Its “silent separation chamber” employs sound-dampening technology, making it suitable for urban recycling facilities where noise pollution is a concern. The system also integrates with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further lowering its carbon footprint.
EcoDry’s commitment to circularity extends to its manufacturing process: 90% of its equipment is made from recycled steel, and all packaging is plastic-free. “We wanted a system that aligned with our zero-waste goals, and EcoDry delivered,” says a Norwegian recycling cooperative. With strong demand in Northern Europe and Scandinavia, EcoDry is proving that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.
10. GlobalRecycle Tech (GRT)
Rounding out our list is GlobalRecycle Tech (GRT), a Chinese manufacturer with a global footprint spanning over 60 countries. GRT’s strength lies in its ability to customize dry process systems to meet local regulatory requirements and feedstock characteristics.
Flagship Product: GRT-CustomDry Series
The GRT-CustomDry Series is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a platform that can be tailored with options like防爆设计 (explosion-proof design) for hazardous environments, dust suppression systems for arid regions, and cold-weather packages for polar climates. GRT’s engineering team works closely with clients to conduct on-site feedstock analysis and design a system that maximizes recovery rates for their specific materials.
GRT’s competitive pricing and flexible financing options have made it a popular choice in emerging markets. “GRT helped us secure a loan through their partner bank, making it possible to start our recycling operation,” says a Kenyan e-waste recycler. With a 24/7 global support hotline and multilingual technical manuals, GRT ensures that language and distance are never barriers to success.
| Manufacturer | Key Product | Capacity (kg/hour) | Standout Feature | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welltech Environmental Machinery | WCBD-2000A | 500-2000 | Multi-stage eddy current separation | Global (Europe, Asia, North America) |
| EcoRecycle Technologies | DrySep Pro Series | 300-1500 | Modular design, low noise (85dB) | Asia, Europe, North America |
| GreenCycle Machinery Group | GCMG-DryPCB 3000 | 3000 | Highest single-line throughput | Europe, Latin America |
| UltraDry Tech Solutions | UltraDry Mini 500 | 500 | Container-sized, space-saving design | North America, Europe |
| CleanSep Environmental | CleanSep Precious 1500 | 1500 | Nano-sensor precious metal sorting | Asia, Middle East, Europe |
| DryProcess Innovations | DPI-EcoShred Series | 800-2000 | Airless electrostatic separation | Europe, North America |
| ProCycle Systems | MultiShred 2500 | 2500 | Interchangeable modules for mixed e-waste | Asia-Pacific |
| AdvancedRecycling Equipment | ARE-DryLine 1500 | 1500 | Factory-direct pricing, low maintenance | North America |
| EcoDry Systems | EcoDry ECO-2000 | 2000 | Heat recovery system (40% energy savings) | Northern Europe, Scandinavia |
| GlobalRecycle Tech | GRT-CustomDry Series | Customizable | Climate/regulatory customization | Emerging Markets (Africa, Asia, Latin America) |
Choosing the Right Partner for Your Needs
Selecting a dry process PCB recycling equipment manufacturer is a decision that impacts your operation’s efficiency, profitability, and environmental footprint for years to come. While Welltech leads in global reach and EcoRecycle in modularity, the “best” manufacturer depends on your specific needs: small-scale recyclers may lean toward UltraDry’s compact systems, while large facilities might prioritize GreenCycle’s high throughput. For those in emerging markets, GRT’s customization and financing options could be game-changers, while sustainability-focused operators will gravitate toward EcoDry’s energy-efficient designs.
One thing is clear: the future of PCB recycling is dry. As regulations tighten and the value of e-waste metals rises, these manufacturers will continue to innovate, driving recovery rates higher and costs lower. By investing in a reputable dry process system, you’re not just recycling—you’re contributing to a circular economy that preserves resources and protects our planet for generations to come.
