Why Liechtenstein? A Hub for Precision Recycling Equipment
You might wonder: Why Liechtenstein? This tiny nation, with a population of just over 38,000, has long been a leader in high-tech manufacturing. Its focus on precision engineering, adherence to EU environmental regulations, and culture of innovation make it an ideal base for companies crafting specialized recycling equipment. Many of these suppliers have been family-owned for generations, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. They don't just build machines—they partner with clients to understand their unique challenges, from processing delicate lithium-ion batteries to stripping tough scrap cables. For businesses worldwide, choosing a Liechtenstein supplier often means investing in durability, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability that aligns with global green goals.
The Top 10 Suppliers: Innovators in Hydraulic Cutting and Recycling
1. Alpine Recycling Technologies GmbH
Founded in 1992, Alpine Recycling Technologies GmbH is a pioneer in the field, starting as a small workshop in Vaduz and growing into a global name. What sets them apart? Their laser focus on hydraulic cutter equipment and cable recycling equipment , designed to handle everything from thin copper wires to thick industrial cables. Their flagship product, the HC-500 Hydraulic Cutter, is a favorite among scrap yards and recycling plants for its precision—capable of cleanly cutting through cables up to 100mm in diameter without damaging valuable copper cores.
But Alpine doesn't stop at cutting. They've expanded their lineup to include scrap cable stripper equipment like the CS-300, an automated system that strips insulation from scrap cables at speeds of 50 meters per minute, reducing labor costs and increasing throughput. "We work with clients in over 40 countries," says CEO Maria Schmid, "and the feedback is always the same: reliability. Our machines run 24/7 in some facilities, and downtime is almost unheard of. That's the Liechtenstein promise—quality you can count on."
Alpine also offers custom solutions, recently partnering with a German automotive plant to design a hydraulic cutter tailored for automotive wiring harnesses. With a team of 120 engineers and a state-of-the-art R&D lab, they're constantly innovating—next on their horizon? A solar-powered hydraulic cutter prototype for off-grid recycling operations.
2. Rhein Engineering Works AG
Rhein Engineering Works AG, based in Schaan, has been a household name in Liechtenstein's manufacturing scene since 1968. While they started with general industrial machinery, their pivot to recycling equipment in the early 2000s proved visionary. Today, they're best known for their motor stator cutter equipment and shredder and pre-chopper equipment , critical for processing electric motor waste—a fast-growing sector as the world transitions to electric vehicles.
The MS-800 Motor Stator Cutter is a game-changer. Electric motor stators, with their copper windings and steel cores, are notoriously hard to recycle efficiently. Rhein's cutter uses a dual hydraulic blade system to slice through stators cleanly, separating copper wires from steel laminations in seconds. "We tested 27 blade designs before landing on the final one," explains lead engineer Thomas Müller. "The key was balancing force and precision—too much pressure bends the steel, too little leaves copper tangled. Now, our clients recover 99.7% of the copper, up from 85% with older methods."
Rhein also excels in shredders, with their 2-shaft and 4-shaft models designed for pre-chopping tough materials like plastic, rubber, and even small appliances. Their SC-1500 Shredder & Pre-Chopper, paired with a hydraulic cutter, forms a complete "motor recycling line" that can process 500kg of motor stators per hour. With a focus on energy efficiency, Rhein's machines use 15% less power than industry averages—a selling point for clients aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
3. Liechtenstein Hydraulics & Recycling (LHR)
Founded in 2005 by a team of ex-Siemens engineers, LHR has made a name for itself by specializing in "niche but necessary" equipment. Their claim to fame? The hydraulic baler equipment and hydraulic cutter equipment for the waste management sector, particularly for compacting and cutting bulky items like refrigerators, washing machines, and even car parts. "When you're dealing with 200kg appliances, you need a cutter that doesn't flinch," says sales director Klaus Weber. "Our HCB-2000 Hydraulic Cutter can slice through a refrigerator door like butter, and our balers then compress the scrap metal into dense bales for easy transport."
LHR's machines are also popular in the construction industry, where their hydraulic cutters are used to process rebar and steel beams. What truly sets them apart, though, is their commitment to after-sales service. "We have a 24/7 support line, and 90% of issues are resolved over the phone within 30 minutes," Weber adds. "For the 10% that need a technician, we have reps in 12 European countries who can be on-site within 24 hours. Our clients don't just buy a machine—they buy peace of mind."
Recently, LHR expanded into air pollution control system equipment , offering filters and dust collectors that pair seamlessly with their cutting and baling lines. "Sustainability isn't just about recycling materials—it's about keeping the air clean while you do it," Weber notes. "Our APC systems reduce particulate emissions by 98%, helping clients meet even the strictest EU standards."
4. Vaduz Precision Machinery (VPM)
Vaduz Precision Machinery, or VPM, is all about specialization. While many suppliers offer a broad range of equipment, VPM has doubled down on circuit board recycling equipment and li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment —two of the most complex and high-value recycling streams today. "Circuit boards are like treasure chests," says founder Hans Meier, who started VPM in his garage in 2010. "They contain gold, silver, copper, and rare earth metals, but extracting them requires delicate handling. Our WCBD-2000A Circuit Board Recycling Plant, with its dry separator, can process 500-2000kg per hour while keeping metal purity above 99%."
For lithium-ion batteries, VPM's breaking and separating system uses a combination of shredding, sieving, and magnetic separation to recover cobalt, lithium, and nickel—critical materials for the EV boom. "Batteries are tricky because of the fire risk," Meier explains. "Our system uses inert gas to prevent combustion and a water-based cooling system to keep temperatures stable. It's not just efficient—it's safe."
VPM's client list includes major electronics manufacturers like Dell and Samsung, who rely on their equipment to recycle end-of-life devices. "We're small, but we're agile," Meier says. "When a new battery chemistry hits the market, we can adapt our machines in months, not years. That's the advantage of being a Liechtenstein company—we're close to our clients and can pivot quickly."
5. Alpina Recycling Systems
Alpina Recycling Systems is a family-run business with a big heart for sustainability. Since 1978, the Meier family has been building equipment that makes recycling accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Their focus? portable briquetting machine models like the PHBM-002, PHBM-003, and PHBM-004—compact, mobile units designed for metal powder and small scrap. "Not every recycler has a warehouse full of equipment," says third-generation owner Anna Meier. "Our portable briquetters let auto shops, machine shops, and even jewelers compact metal shavings and powder into dense briquettes that can be sold back to smelters. It turns waste into revenue."
Alpina also offers hydraulic press machines equipment for pressing plastic and aluminum scrap, and their entry-level hydraulic cutters are a hit with startups. "We started with a single machine—the PHBM-001—and now we have a line of 12 portable models," Meier says. "Our best-seller? The PHBM-003, which can handle up to 50kg of metal powder per hour and runs on standard 220V electricity. It's lightweight enough to be moved with a pallet jack, but tough enough to last 15+ years."
What makes Alpina special? Their "Sustainability Partnership" program, where they donate 5% of profits from each machine to local recycling initiatives in the buyer's community. "We don't just want to sell machines—we want to build a movement," Meier adds. "When you buy from Alpina, you're not just investing in your business; you're investing in a greener future for your neighborhood."
6. Rhein Valley Tech (RVT)
RVT is the go-to supplier for businesses that need "heavy-duty, no-excuses" equipment. Specializing in 4 shaft shredder equipment , hydraulic cutter equipment , and metal melting furnace equipment , they cater to large-scale recycling plants and mining operations. Their 4-shaft shredders, for example, can process entire cars, appliances, and even construction debris into uniform particles, while their hydraulic cutters handle the precision work of separating valuable components. "We recently delivered a system to a Turkish recycling plant that processes 200 tons of scrap metal per day," says project manager Jan Richter. "Our 4-shaft shredder breaks down the metal, our hydraulic cutter separates copper wiring, and our melting furnace turns the steel into ingots. It's a closed-loop system that maximizes recovery."
RVT's metal melting furnaces, particularly their medium-frequency induction models, are known for their energy efficiency—using up to 30% less electricity than traditional furnaces. "In today's market, energy costs are a huge concern," Richter notes. "Our furnaces not only melt metal faster but also lower operating costs, which translates to higher profits for our clients."
With a team of 80+ technicians and a global network of distributors, RVT prides itself on handling turnkey projects. "We don't just sell you a shredder or a cutter—we design the entire recycling line, install it, train your staff, and provide ongoing support," Richter says. "One client in India called us 'their silent partner'—and that's exactly what we aim to be."
7. Liechtenstein Environmental Technologies (LET)
LET is on a mission to make recycling "cleaner, safer, and smarter." As the name suggests, their focus is on environmental compliance, with a lineup that includes air pollution control system equipment , effluent treatment machine equipment , and water process equipment . But they've also made waves with their specialized hydraulic cutters for hazardous materials, like CRT recycling machines equipment (for old TV and monitor screens) and lamp recycling equipment .
"CRTs contain leaded glass, which is dangerous if not handled properly," explains environmental engineer Lisa Berger. "Our CRT-500 Cutter uses a vacuum-sealed chamber to cut screens without releasing lead dust, and our air pollution control system captures any particles that do escape. It's the only machine of its kind certified by the EU for lead safety."
LET's lamp recycling line is equally innovative, with cutters that safely break fluorescent bulbs to extract mercury and rare earth phosphors. "Mercury is a neurotoxin, so precision is critical," Berger says. "Our machines not only cut the bulbs but also separate the glass, metal, and mercury vapor—all in a closed loop. Clients love it because it eliminates the risk of worker exposure and ensures compliance with strict mercury disposal laws."
LET also offers training programs for clients, helping them implement best practices in hazardous waste handling. "We believe equipment is only as good as the people using it," Berger adds. "Our training sessions cover everything from machine maintenance to emergency protocols, so our clients feel confident every step of the way."
8. Schaan Recycling Innovations (SRI)
SRI is the newcomer on this list, founded in 2015, but they've quickly made a name for themselves with their focus on lithium-ion battery recycling—a sector projected to grow by 25% annually over the next decade. Their flagship product? The li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment with a capacity of 500kg/h to 2500kg/h, designed to handle everything from smartphone batteries to EV battery packs. "Lithium batteries are the future, but they're also a recycling nightmare," says founder Markus Ziegler, a former Tesla engineer. "They're prone to thermal runaway, and traditional shredders can trigger fires. Our system uses a low-speed, high-torque shredder paired with a hydraulic cutter to break batteries into small pieces without generating heat—eliminating the fire risk."
SRI's system then uses a combination of sieving, magnetic separation, and air classification to recover lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper. "We've achieved 95% material recovery rates in trials with EV batteries," Ziegler says. "That's a game-changer for the industry, which has struggled with low yields in the past."
What's next for SRI? A pilot plant in Liechtenstein to demonstrate their "closed-loop" battery recycling process, where recovered materials are used to make new battery cathodes. "We want to show the world that lithium batteries can be fully recycled, not just mined," Ziegler adds. "It's not just about profit—it's about reducing our dependence on rare earth mining and protecting the planet."
9. Alpine Cable Solutions (ACS)
ACS eats, sleeps, and breathes cable recycling. As a spin-off of Alpine Recycling Technologies (Supplier 1), they focus solely on cable recycling equipment , scrap cable stripper equipment , and copper wire granulators . Their star product? The WCD-200C Cable Recycling Machine, a all-in-one system that strips, cuts, and granulates scrap cables to recover copper and aluminum. "We designed it for small to medium recyclers who want a plug-and-play solution," says product manager Lena Kohler. "Unpack it, connect it to power and a dust collector, and you're up and running in an hour. No complicated setup, no special training."
ACS also offers high-end models for large operations, like the WCW-500 Jelly-Filled Cable Recycling Plant, which processes the sticky, petroleum-based jelly found in underground cables—a material that gums up most standard machines. "Jelly-filled cables used to be considered 'unrecyclable' because the jelly ruins copper purity," Kohler explains. "Our system uses a heated separator to melt the jelly, which is then recycled as industrial fuel, while the copper is 99.9% pure. It's a win-win."
What makes ACS stand out? Their "Lifetime Blades" guarantee. "Our cutter blades are made from high-grade tool steel, and we guarantee they'll last 10,000 hours of continuous use," Kohler says. "If they wear out before that, we replace them for free. Clients tell us it's the reason they stay loyal—no hidden costs, no surprises."
10. Global Recycling Components (GRC)
Rounding out our list is GRC, a wholesaler and trader that connects Liechtenstein manufacturers with buyers worldwide. While they don't produce their own equipment, they're a critical link in the supply chain, offering a one-stop shop for everything from hydraulic cutter equipment to air pollution control machines equipment . "We work with 15+ Liechtenstein manufacturers, so clients can compare models, get bulk discounts, and streamline logistics," says trading director Peter Lang. "If you need a hydraulic baler from LHR, a shredder from RVT, and an air filter from LET, we'll coordinate delivery, installation, and warranties—all through one point of contact."
GRC specializes in emerging markets, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia, where recycling infrastructure is growing rapidly. "Many of our clients in these regions are first-time buyers," Lang notes. "They need guidance on which machine fits their budget and needs. We don't just sell—we consult. Last year, we helped a Kenyan recycler design a complete plant from scratch, choosing equipment that matched their power grid and material mix."
GRC also offers financing options, making high-quality Liechtenstein equipment accessible to small businesses. "Not everyone can afford to pay upfront," Lang says. "Our lease-to-own programs let clients start generating revenue immediately, then pay off the machine over time. It's how we're helping build the next generation of recyclers."
Comparing the Best: Key Features at a Glance
| Supplier | Core Products | Specialty | Target Clients | Notable Innovation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Recycling Technologies | Hydraulic cutter, cable stripper | Precision cable cutting | Global scrap yards, industrial recyclers | HC-500 cutter for 100mm cables |
| Rhein Engineering Works | Motor stator cutter, shredders | Electric motor recycling | Automotive, e-waste plants | MS-800 stator cutter (99.7% copper recovery) |
| Liechtenstein Hydraulics & Recycling | Hydraulic baler, cutter for appliances | Bulky waste processing | Waste management, construction | HCB-2000 cutter for refrigerators/cars |
| Vaduz Precision Machinery | Circuit board, li-ion battery recycling | Hazardous e-waste | Electronics manufacturers | WCBD-2000A (dry separator for circuit boards) |
| Alpina Recycling Systems | Portable briquetters | Small-scale metal recycling | SMEs, machine shops | PHBM-003 portable metal powder briquetter |
| Rhein Valley Tech | 4-shaft shredders, melting furnaces | Heavy-duty industrial recycling | Mining, large-scale plants | Energy-efficient induction furnaces |
| Liechtenstein Environmental Technologies | CRT, lamp recycling machines | Hazardous material handling | Waste-to-energy plants, e-waste facilities | CRT-500 vacuum-sealed cutter |
| Schaan Recycling Innovations | Li-ion battery breaking systems | EV battery recycling | Automotive, battery manufacturers | Low-heat shredding to prevent fires |
| ACS | Cable recycling machines, strippers | Jelly-filled cable processing | Cable recyclers (small to large) | WCW-500 jelly-filled cable plant |
| Global Recycling Components | Wholesale recycling equipment | One-stop supplier for Liechtenstein machinery | Emerging markets, new recyclers | Lease-to-own financing for SMEs |
Choosing the right hydraulic cutting and recycling equipment supplier is more than just a business decision—it's a step toward building a more sustainable future. Liechtenstein's top suppliers offer something unique: a blend of precision engineering, durability, and a genuine commitment to solving the world's recycling challenges. Whether you're a small recycler just starting out or a global corporation scaling up your circular economy efforts, these companies don't just sell machines—they deliver partnerships built on trust, innovation, and a shared vision of a greener planet.
As the demand for recycled materials continues to grow, one thing is clear: the future of recycling is in the hands of suppliers who understand that every cut, shred, and separation matters. And in Liechtenstein, that future is already here.










