Lead-acid batteries are everywhere—powering our cars, trucks, golf carts, and even backup generators. But when they reach the end of their life, they’re not just trash. They’re a goldmine of recyclable materials, with over 99% of their lead and plastic recoverable. That’s where lead-acid battery crushing and separation equipment comes in. These machines turn old batteries into valuable resources, keeping toxic lead out of landfills and reducing the need for mining new materials.
Canada’s lead-acid battery recycling industry has been booming lately. With stricter environmental regulations and a growing focus on sustainability, businesses across the country are investing in top-notch recycling equipment. But with so many suppliers out there, how do you pick the right one? We’ve done the legwork for you. Below is a deep dive into the top 10 suppliers in Canada for 2025, based on equipment quality, customer reviews, and industry reputation. Whether you’re a small scrap yard or a large recycling plant, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Matters
Before we jump into the suppliers, let’s talk about why this equipment is so crucial. Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into soil and water if batteries are improperly disposed of, causing serious health issues like neurological damage. Recycling not only prevents this but also saves energy—recycling lead uses 90% less energy than mining and refining new lead. Plus, the plastic casings from batteries can be melted down and reused, cutting down on plastic waste.
In Canada, the demand for efficient recycling equipment is skyrocketing. The country recycles about 95% of its lead-acid batteries (one of the highest rates globally), but as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage grow, that number is only going up. That’s why choosing the right crushing and separation equipment is key—it needs to handle higher volumes, meet strict emissions standards, and deliver pure, reusable materials.
Top 10 Suppliers: At a Glance
| Rank | Company Name | Founded | Core Products | Annual Capacity (kg/h) | Key Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EcoCycle Solutions Inc. | 2005 | Lead acid battery breaking and separating plant, Filter press equipment | 2000-2500 | Canada, USA, Europe |
| 2 | GreenTech Recycling Systems | 2010 | De-sulfurization unit, Air pollution control system equipment | 1500-2000 | Canada, Australia, Asia |
| 3 | Northern Recycling Technologies | 2008 | Hydraulic briquetter equipment, Lead acid battery cutter | 1200-1800 | Canada, Northern USA |
| 4 | Maple Leaf Environmental | 2012 | Complete recycling lines, Wet process equipment | 1000-1500 | Canada, Mexico, South America |
| 5 | West Coast Recycling Machinery | 2003 | Dry process equipment, Shredder systems | 800-1200 | Western Canada, USA West Coast |
| 6 | Atlantic Eco-Equipment | 2015 | Portable briquetting machines, Auxiliary equipment | 500-1000 | Atlantic Canada, Eastern USA |
| 7 | Ontario Recycling Innovations | 2007 | Hydraulic press machines, Circuit board recycling equipment | 600-1100 | Ontario, Quebec, Midwest USA |
| 8 | Alberta Green Machines | 2011 | Air pollution control system, Furnace for paste reduction | 700-1300 | Alberta, Saskatchewan, Western USA |
| 9 | British Columbia Recycling Tech | 2009 | Plastic pneumatic conveying system, Compact granulator | 400-900 | BC, Washington, Oregon |
| 10 | Quebec Eco-Recyclers Ltd. | 2013 | Wet process equipment, Motor recycling machines | 500-800 | Quebec, New England |
1. EcoCycle Solutions Inc. (Toronto, ON)
The Industry Leader in High-Capacity Recycling
EcoCycle Solutions has been a household name in Canadian recycling since 2005, and for good reason. They’re known for building tough, reliable machines that can handle just about anything you throw at them. Their flagship product? The lead acid battery breaking and separating plant , which has become the gold standard for large-scale recycling facilities.
What sets EcoCycle apart is their focus on efficiency. Their breaking and separating plant can process 2000-2500 kg of batteries per hour—perfect for big operations that need to keep up with high volumes. The system uses a combination of mechanical crushing and hydraulic separation to split the battery into lead grids, plastic casings, and acid. And to make sure the process is as clean as possible, they pair it with filter press equipment that collects the paste efficiently, reducing waste and ensuring the lead is pure enough for reuse.
Customers love EcoCycle’s after-sales support, too. “We’ve had their plant running for three years, and downtime is almost zero,” says Mark Thompson, operations manager at a Toronto-based recycling facility. “When we do need help, their tech team is on the phone within an hour. You can’t put a price on that kind of reliability.”
EcoCycle isn’t just about volume, though. They’ve invested heavily in green technology, with systems that capture 99% of emissions and recycle the sulfuric acid into industrial-grade products. For businesses that need to meet Canada’s strict environmental regulations (like the Canadian Environmental Protection Act), this is a game-changer.
2. GreenTech Recycling Systems (Vancouver, BC)
Sustainability Meets Innovation
If you’re looking for equipment that’s as eco-friendly as it is powerful, GreenTech is the way to go. Founded in 2010, this Vancouver-based company has made a name for itself with cutting-edge de-sulfurization unit technology and top-of-the-line air pollution control system equipment .
De-sulfurization is a critical step in lead-acid battery recycling—it removes sulfur from the lead paste, making it safer to melt and reuse. GreenTech’s units are designed to do this with minimal energy use and zero toxic byproducts. “Traditional de-sulfurization methods release a lot of sulfur dioxide, which is bad for the air and tough to clean up,” explains GreenTech’s chief engineer, Sarah Liu. “Our system uses a chemical process that traps the sulfur in a solid form, which can then be sold to fertilizer companies. It’s a win-win—less pollution, and an extra revenue stream for our clients.”
Pair that with their air pollution control systems, and you’ve got a setup that’s practically emissions-free. The systems use a multi-stage filtration process: first, a cyclone separator catches large particles, then a baghouse filter traps fine dust, and finally, a scrubber neutralizes any remaining gases. It’s so effective that GreenTech’s equipment is often used as a benchmark for environmental audits in British Columbia.
GreenTech’s machines are also surprisingly flexible. They offer both modular and turnkey systems, so small and medium-sized businesses don’t have to invest in a full-scale plant right away. “We started with a basic de-sulfurization unit and added the air control system a year later as we grew,” says Lisa Wong, owner of a Victoria-based scrap yard. “GreenTech worked with us to design a system that fit our budget and space. Now we’re processing 1500 kg/hour and meeting every emissions standard.”
3. Northern Recycling Technologies (Edmonton, AB)
Built for Canada’s Harsh Conditions
If you operate in Northern Canada, you know equipment has to be tough. Cold temperatures, remote locations, and dusty environments can wreak havoc on machinery—but Northern Recycling Technologies builds equipment that thrives in these conditions. Founded in 2008, this Edmonton-based company specializes in rugged systems that don’t back down, even when the mercury drops below -30°C.
Their star product? The hydraulic briquetter equipment, which compresses loose lead scraps into dense briquettes for easy transport and melting. Northern’s briquetters are built with heavy-duty hydraulic pumps and insulated components that work even in freezing weather. “We tested their briquetter in Yellowknife last winter,” says James Wilson, a recycling consultant. “It was -35°C outside, and the machine started up on the first try. Most systems would have seized up, but this one ran like a charm.”
Northern also makes a mean lead acid battery cutter—perfect for pre-processing batteries before they hit the crusher. The cutter uses a hydraulic blade to slice through the battery casing, making it easier to separate the components without damaging the lead grids. It’s a small addition, but it speeds up the entire process, especially for facilities that handle a lot of damaged or irregularly shaped batteries.
What really makes Northern stand out, though, is their focus on local support. They have service centers in Edmonton, Calgary, and Winnipeg, so even remote customers don’t have to wait weeks for parts. “We’re based in Whitehorse, and when our briquetter needed a new filter, Northern had it shipped up in two days,” says Karen Lee, operations manager at a Yukon recycling plant. “You can’t get that kind of service from a supplier based in the States or Europe.”
4. Maple Leaf Environmental (Montreal, QC)
Custom Solutions for Every Need
Maple Leaf Environmental isn’t a one-size-fits-all supplier—they’re all about customization. Founded in 2012, this Montreal-based company works closely with clients to design recycling systems that fit their specific needs, whether it’s a small wet process setup or a full-scale automated line.
Their wet process equipment is a fan favorite, especially among facilities that need to recover every last drop of lead. The wet process uses water-based separation to extract lead paste from the battery, resulting in higher purity than dry methods. “We switched to Maple Leaf’s wet process system last year, and our lead purity went from 96% to 99.5%,” says Pierre Dubois, owner of a Quebec City recycling plant. “That might not sound like much, but it means we can sell our lead for a higher price—enough to pay off the equipment in two years.”
Maple Leaf also excels at integrating different technologies. Want to add a hydraulic press to your existing line? They’ll design a custom interface. Need to connect your system to a plastic recycling unit? They’ll make sure the workflow is seamless. “They didn’t just sell us a machine—they built a complete solution,” says Dubois. “Our plant now runs like a well-oiled machine, with minimal manual labor and maximum output.”
Another plus? Maple Leaf is big on training. When you buy a system, they send a team to your facility to train your staff for a full week—no extra charge. “We had a lot of new hires, and the training made all the difference,” says Dubois. “Now everyone knows how to troubleshoot small issues, which keeps downtime low.”
5. West Coast Recycling Machinery (Vancouver, BC)
Dry Process Experts for Water-Scarce Regions
In Western Canada, where water can be scarce (especially in places like Alberta and parts of BC), dry process equipment is a must. West Coast Recycling Machinery has been leading the charge in dry recycling technology since 2003, offering systems that use minimal water while still delivering top-notch results.
Their dry process equipment uses air classification and electrostatic separation to split the battery components, eliminating the need for large water tanks. This not only saves water but also reduces the risk of water pollution and cuts down on energy costs (no need to heat or treat water). “We’re in Kamloops, where water restrictions are tight,” says Ryan Patel, manager of a regional recycling center. “West Coast’s dry system uses less than 100 liters of water per hour—compared to 5000 liters with our old wet system. It’s been a lifesaver for our budget and our environmental footprint.”
West Coast also makes rugged shredder systems that pre-process the batteries, breaking them into smaller pieces before separation. Their single-shaft shredders are built with hardened steel blades that can handle even the toughest battery casings, and they’re easy to maintain—important for facilities with limited technical staff.
What customers appreciate most, though, is West Coast’s transparency. “They were honest about what their system could and couldn’t do,” says Patel. “A lot of suppliers overpromise, but West Coast told us upfront that we might see a slight drop in lead purity with the dry process. But they worked with us to adjust the settings, and now we’re right where we need to be. Trust is everything in this business.”
6. Atlantic Eco-Equipment (Halifax, NS)
For small to medium-sized businesses in Atlantic Canada, Atlantic Eco-Equipment is the go-to supplier. Founded in 2015, this Halifax-based company specializes in portable and modular systems that don’t require a huge upfront investment or a lot of space.
Their portable briquetting machines are a hit with scrap yards and small recycling centers. These compact units can compress lead powder into briquettes on-site, making it easier to transport the material to larger smelters. “We used to ship loose lead powder, which was messy and wasted a lot of space,” says Mike O’Connor, owner of a scrap yard in Saint John, NB. “Atlantic’s portable briquetter fits in the back of our truck, so we can briquette on-site. Now we’re saving on shipping costs and getting better prices for our lead.”
Atlantic also offers a range of auxiliary equipment, like conveyors and sorting tables, that help small facilities run more efficiently. “They understand that not everyone has a million-dollar budget,” says O’Connor. “Their auxiliary equipment is affordable, but it’s still high quality. We bought a conveyor from them two years ago, and it’s still running like new.”
7. Ontario Recycling Innovations (Hamilton, ON)
Ontario Recycling Innovations (ORI) is all about innovation. Founded in 2007, this Hamilton-based company has filed over 15 patents for recycling technology, including their state-of-the-art hydraulic press machines. These presses are designed to flatten battery casings and compress lead grids, making separation faster and more efficient.
ORI’s presses use advanced sensors to adjust pressure based on the material, ensuring that lead grids aren’t damaged and plastic casings are flattened evenly. “We used to have to sort through damaged lead grids by hand,” says Jessica Chen, plant manager at a Hamilton recycling facility. “ORI’s press applies just the right amount of pressure—now the grids come out intact, and we save hours of manual labor.”
8. Alberta Green Machines (Calgary, AB)
Alberta Green Machines is a leader in air pollution control, offering systems that keep recycling plants compliant with Alberta’s strict emissions laws. Their air pollution control systems use a combination of HEPA filters and activated carbon to trap even the smallest particles, ensuring that emissions are well below regulatory limits.
“We were struggling to meet Alberta’s new emissions standards until we installed Alberta Green’s system,” says Tom Wilson, owner of a Calgary recycling plant. “Now our emissions are 70% below the legal limit, and we’ve even noticed a difference in air quality in the plant. Our workers are healthier, and that’s priceless.”
9. British Columbia Recycling Tech (Surrey, BC)
BC Recycling Tech specializes in plastic recycling equipment, including pneumatic conveying systems that transport plastic casings from the battery separator to the granulator. Their systems are designed to be energy-efficient, with variable-speed motors that adjust to the amount of plastic being transported, reducing power costs.
“Their pneumatic system is whisper-quiet compared to our old conveyor belt,” says Lisa Kim, operations manager at a Surrey recycling facility. “And it takes up half the space. We were able to add another separation line in the area we saved—now we’re processing 30% more batteries.”
10. Quebec Eco-Recyclers Ltd. (Quebec City, QC)
Rounding out our list is Quebec Eco-Recyclers, a company that focuses on motor recycling machines and wet process equipment. Their wet process systems are popular with small to medium-sized facilities in Quebec, thanks to their low cost and easy maintenance.
“We’re a family-owned business, and we don’t have a lot of technical staff,” says Jean-Luc Tremblay, owner of a Quebec City recycling plant. “Quebec Eco-Recyclers’ wet system is so simple to operate—my son learned it in a day. And when we need parts, they’re delivered overnight from their warehouse in Montreal.”
How to Choose the Right Supplier for You
With so many great options, how do you narrow it down? Here are a few things to consider:
- Capacity: How many batteries do you process per hour? EcoCycle and GreenTech are best for high volumes, while Atlantic Eco-Equipment and Quebec Eco-Recyclers work well for smaller operations.
- Location: If you’re in Northern Canada, Northern Recycling Technologies’ cold-weather equipment is a must. For Western Canada’s water-scarce regions, West Coast’s dry process is ideal.
- Environmental Needs: If emissions are a top concern, GreenTech or Alberta Green Machines’ air pollution control systems are worth a look.
- Budget: Maple Leaf and Atlantic Eco-Equipment offer customizable options that can fit smaller budgets, while EcoCycle and GreenTech are better for large-scale investments.
The Future of Lead-Acid Battery Recycling in Canada
As Canada moves toward a greener economy, the demand for efficient lead-acid battery recycling equipment will only grow. Suppliers are already working on next-gen technologies, like AI-powered sorting systems and fully automated lines that require minimal human input. And with the rise of electric vehicles (which use lead-acid batteries for auxiliary power), we’ll likely see even higher-capacity systems in the coming years.
But no matter how advanced the technology gets, the key to success will always be reliability, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability. The suppliers on this list have proven they have what it takes to lead the way—and help Canadian businesses thrive in the circular economy.
So whether you’re upgrading your current system or starting a new recycling plant, take the time to research these suppliers. With the right equipment, you’ll not only boost your bottom line but also do your part to keep Canada’s environment clean and healthy for generations to come.









