Top 10 Lead Refiner Suppliers in Japan

Founded in 1992, Nippon LeadCycle Inc. has grown from a small local operation to one of Japan’s most trusted names in lead acid battery recycling. What sets them apart? Their laser focus on turning end-of-life batteries into high-quality lead ingots—without cutting corners on the environment. “We started because we saw how many old car batteries were ending up in landfills, leaking acid and harming ecosystems,” says CEO Takeshi Tanaka. “Today, we process over 50,000 tons of batteries annually, and we’re proud to say 99% of that lead gets reused.”

Their star products? The lead acid battery recycling equipment lineup, including the LBR-5000 series, which combines a lead acid battery breaking and separation system with automated sorting. “The breaking system first cracks open the battery cases, then separates the plastic, acid, and lead plates—all in one seamless line,” explains Tanaka. “It’s designed to minimize manual labor, which not only speeds things up but also keeps workers safe from harmful fumes.” Clients rave about the system’s efficiency: a mid-sized recycling plant in Osaka reported a 40% increase in throughput after switching to Nippon LeadCycle’s equipment.

Beyond equipment, Nippon LeadCycle prides itself on sustainability. All their systems come with built-in acid neutralization units, and they even offer training programs to help clients meet Japan’s strict waste management laws. “We don’t just sell machines—we partner with our clients to make their entire process greener,” Tanaka adds. With certifications like ISO 14001 and JIS Q 9001, it’s no wonder they’re a top choice for companies like Toyota and Panasonic.

For over 45 years, Tokyo Metal Refining Systems (TMRS) has been the go-to for businesses that need lead so pure, it meets aerospace and medical-grade standards. Established in 1978, this Tokyo-based firm got its start making furnaces for the automotive industry but quickly expanded into lead refining as demand for recycled, high-purity metal grew. “Our clients aren’t just recycling—they’re creating raw materials for precision parts,” says Chief Engineer Yuki Nakamura. “That’s why our furnaces are built to deliver lead with 99.99% purity, every single time.”

At the core of their lineup is the medium frequency electricity furnace equipment , specifically the MFE-8000 model. Unlike traditional coal-fired furnaces, these use electromagnetic induction to heat metal, which means faster melting times (up to 50% quicker than gas furnaces) and better temperature control. “We can dial the heat up or down by 1-degree increments,” Nakamura explains. “That precision is key for removing impurities like sulfur and copper, which can ruin the lead’s quality.” They also offer metal melting furnace equipment for larger operations, like the MMF-10T, which can handle 10 tons of scrap lead per batch—ideal for industrial foundries.

What really makes TMRS stand out, though, is their customization. “No two plants are the same,” Nakamura says. “A small battery shop might need a compact furnace, while a major manufacturer wants a fully automated line. We design each system to fit the client’s space, budget, and output goals.” A recent project for a electronics manufacturer in Yokohama involved retrofitting an existing facility with a custom MFE furnace and dust collection system. “They needed to melt lead scrap from circuit boards, and our furnace was able to handle the mixed metals without compromising purity,” Nakamura notes. With ISO 9001 and JIS certifications, TMRS has earned a reputation for reliability—so much so that 80% of their business comes from repeat clients.

When Osaka LeadTech Solutions opened its doors in 2005, they set out to solve a common problem: too many refineries were piecing together equipment from different suppliers, leading to inefficiencies and compatibility issues. “We wanted to offer a ‘one-stop shop’ where clients could get everything they need for a lead refinery—from melting to purification to waste treatment—in a single, integrated system,” says founder Akira Mori. Today, that vision has made them a favorite among both new startups and established players looking to upgrade.

Their flagship product is the lead refinery machine equipment package, the ORS-3000, which includes a melting furnace, a dross separator, a refining kettle, and a filter press equipment for waste sludge. “The filter press is a game-changer,” Mori explains. “After refining, there’s always some sludge left—heavy metals, impurities, etc. Our filter press squeezes out the moisture, turning it into dry cakes that are easy to dispose of safely. Clients tell us it cuts their waste disposal costs by 30%.” The ORS-3000 is modular, too—so a small plant might start with just a furnace and press, then add a separator as they grow.

What really wins clients over, though, is LeadTech’s customer service. “We send a team to install the equipment, train the staff, and even check in after six months to see how things are running,” Mori says. “A lot of suppliers ｄｒｏｐ off the machine and disappear, but we believe support doesn’t end at delivery.” This hands-on approach has earned them a loyal following, including a major recycling cooperative in Kyoto that recently expanded its refinery with LeadTech’s help. “They walked us through every step, even helping us apply for government grants for green tech,” the cooperative’s manager says. With CE Mark and ISO 14001 certifications, Osaka LeadTech is proving that integrated systems and top-tier service go hand in hand.

Hiroshima Eco-Metals has been a trailblazer in eco-friendly lead refining since 1985. Located in a region still recovering from environmental challenges of the past, the company’s mission is simple: “We want to show that heavy industry and sustainability can coexist,” says President Mei Yamamoto. That mission is reflected in their product line, which focuses on low-emission, energy-efficient equipment tailored for modern refineries.

Their standout offerings include air pollution control system equipment and dry process equipment . The APC-2000 air pollution system, for example, uses a multi-stage filtration process—cyclones, baghouses, and activated carbon—to capture over 99% of harmful fumes (like lead oxide and sulfur dioxide) before they leave the plant. “In Japan, air quality regulations are tough, and for good reason,” Yamamoto notes. “Our APC systems not only keep clients compliant but also make the workplace healthier for employees. We’ve had workers tell us they no longer come home with headaches or sore throats after a shift.”

The dry process equipment, like the DRY-1500, is another hit. Unlike wet processes that use large amounts of water (and create wastewater), the DRY-1500 uses heat and mechanical separation to process lead scrap. “It’s perfect for regions with water shortages or strict wastewater rules,” Yamamoto explains. A client in Okinawa, where water conservation is critical, reported saving 200,000 liters of water annually after switching to the DRY-1500. Add in certifications like the Green Factory Certification and ISO 14001, and it’s clear why Hiroshima Eco-Metals is a leader in sustainable refining tech.

When you need a furnace that can handle the toughest jobs—think 24/7 operation, massive batches of scrap lead—Nagoya Refinery Works is the name that comes up. Established in 1963, this老牌 supplier has built a reputation for making furnaces that are as durable as they are powerful. “Our machines are built to last,” says plant manager Kenji Ito. “We still have clients using furnaces we sold in the 1990s—they just need a little maintenance every now and then.”

Their claim to fame? Medium frequency electricity furnace equipment and blast (cupola) furnace for lead battery recycling plant operations. The MFE-10T medium frequency furnace, for example, can melt 10 tons of lead per hour and run continuously for weeks. “It’s designed with thick, heat-resistant liners and a robust cooling system to prevent overheating,” Ito explains. “We use Japanese-made components, which are more expensive, but clients tell us the extra cost is worth it for the reliability.” The blast cupola furnace, on the other hand, is a favorite for recycling lead battery paste—a sticky, sulfur-rich material that’s hard to melt. “The cupola uses a blast of hot air to burn off sulfur, turning the paste into clean lead oxide,” Ito says. “It’s a traditional design, but we’ve updated it with digital controls for better temperature management.”

Nagoya Refinery Works doesn’t just cater to big players, though. They also offer smaller models for artisanal foundries and research labs. “A university in Tokyo uses our mini MFE-500 furnace to study lead alloy properties,” Ito notes. “It’s rewarding to see our equipment used for innovation, not just production.” With JIS and ISO 9001 certifications, and a track record spanning six decades, Nagoya Refinery Works is a testament to the power of quality craftsmanship.

Not every refinery needs a massive, multi-million-yen setup. That’s where Kyoto Sustainable Metals comes in. Founded in 2010, this young company specializes in compact, affordable equipment for small to mid-scale operations—think auto repair shops, scrap yards, and rural recycling cooperatives. “We noticed a gap in the market,” says founder Ryo Suzuki. “Small businesses wanted to recycle lead but couldn’t afford the huge systems from big suppliers. We set out to make equipment that’s effective, easy to use, and budget-friendly.”

Their most popular product? The portable briquette machine (model PHBM-003), a compact metal powder compressor that turns lead scrap into dense briquettes—perfect for melting in small furnaces. “Scrap lead is often loose and bulky, which makes it hard to transport and melt efficiently,” Suzuki explains. “Our PHBM-003 compresses it into 5kg briquettes that take up 70% less space. A scrap yard in Nara told us they used to make 10 trips to the refinery weekly; now they make 3.” The machine is lightweight (just 150kg) and runs on standard 100V electricity, so it can be used almost anywhere—no industrial power supply needed.

They also offer scaled-down lead refinery machine equipment , like the LRM-100, a tabletop refining unit that can process 100kg of lead per day. “It’s ideal for jewelers or artisans who work with lead alloys,” Suzuki says. “It removes impurities with a simple electrolysis process, and it’s so easy to clean that even someone with no technical training can use it.” Kyoto Sustainable Metals has earned praise for its commitment to accessibility, including offering flexible payment plans and free online tutorials. “We want to empower small businesses to recycle,” Suzuki adds. “Every briquette machine or mini refinery is a step toward a more circular economy.” With EcoVadis Silver certification and a growing base of loyal small-business clients, Kyoto Sustainable Metals is proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to sustainability.

Fukuoka Battery Recycling Tech (FBRT) has made a name for itself by focusing on one of the trickiest parts of lead recycling: battery paste. Founded in 1998, this Fukuoka-based supplier specializes in equipment that turns the sulfur-heavy paste inside lead acid batteries into usable lead—without releasing toxic emissions. “Battery paste is the biggest headache for recyclers,” says CEO Haru Nakamura. “It’s messy, corrosive, and full of sulfur. If you don’t process it right, you end up with impure lead and a lot of pollution. That’s where we come in.”

FBRT’s core products include de-sulfurization machines equipment and the aforementioned lead acid battery breaking and separation system , but their crown jewel is the DPS-3000 de-sulfurization unit. “The DPS-3000 uses a chemical process to strip sulfur from the paste, turning it into gypsum—a harmless byproduct used in drywall,” Nakamura explains. “It’s 95% efficient, which means almost no sulfur ends up in the lead or the air.” Clients in the battery manufacturing industry love it: a factory in Kumamoto reported a 50% reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions after installing the DPS-3000, helping them meet Japan’s strict air quality standards.

What sets FBRT apart is their willingness to collaborate. “We work closely with clients to design custom paste-processing lines,” Nakamura says. “A client in Okinawa had a unique problem—their paste was mixed with seawater due to coastal storage. We modified the DPS-3000 to handle the salt, and now it runs perfectly.” They also offer on-site testing: send them a sample of your paste, and their lab will recommend the best equipment setup. With ISO 14001 and JIS Q 9001 certifications, FBRT has become a trusted partner for companies that refuse to cut corners on paste processing.

Operating a lead refinery in Hokkaido’s freezing winters isn’t easy. Equipment freezes, workers struggle with cold, and logistics get tricky. Sapporo Metal Recovery, founded in 1975, has spent decades adapting lead refining tech to thrive in harsh northern climates. “We know cold weather like the back of our hand,” says President Yuki Tanaka. “Our equipment is built to start up at -20°C, and our systems are insulated to keep heat in—saving energy and keeping workers comfortable.”

Their standout products include metal melting furnace equipment with built-in heating jackets and hydraulic press machines equipment designed for low-temperature operation. The MMF-North furnace, for example, has a double-walled steel casing filled with insulation foam, and a pre-heater that warms the furnace chamber before melting starts. “In winter, a standard furnace might take 2 hours to reach melting temp; ours takes 45 minutes,” Tanaka says. “That saves a lot of fuel.” The hydraulic presses, like the HPP-500, use cold-resistant hydraulic fluid and heated reservoirs to prevent freezing. “A recycling plant in Asahikawa told us their old press would seize up every winter—now, with our HPP-500, they run 24/7, even in snowstorms,” Tanaka adds.

Sapporo Metal Recovery also offers logistics support, a lifesaver in Hokkaido’s remote areas. “We partner with local trucking companies to ensure equipment deliveries aren’t delayed by snow,” Tanaka notes. “Last year, we even sent a technician by snowmobile to fix a furnace during a blizzard—that’s the level of service we’re known for.” With ISO 9001 certification and the Hokkaido Environmental Award, Sapporo Metal Recovery is proof that innovation can thrive even in the coldest corners of Japan.

Starting a lead refinery from scratch is overwhelming. There’s permits, equipment selection, staff training—the list goes on. Yokohama Lead Systems (YLS), founded in 2002, takes the stress out of the process with turnkey refinery packages that include everything from design to startup. “We handle it all,” says CEO Maki Sato. “You tell us your output goals and budget, and we deliver a fully functional refinery—often in under 6 months.”

YLS’s turnkey packages center around their lead refinery machine equipment and auxiliary equipment (think conveyors, storage tanks, and lab testing kits). “Our most popular package is the TKR-10K, which can process 10,000 tons of lead annually,” Sato explains. “It includes a breaking system, melting furnace, refinery kettle, filter press, and even a lab setup for quality control. We also help with permits—Japan’s environmental laws are strict, so we work with local authorities to ensure everything is up to code.” A recent client, a startup in Kagawa Prefecture, was up and running in just 5 months thanks to YLS’s support. “They handled the construction, the equipment installation, and even trained our staff,” the startup’s owner says. “We couldn’t have done it without them.”

YLS doesn’t stop at startup, either. They offer 5-year maintenance contracts, with local technicians on call 24/7. “A refinery in Kobe had a furnace breakdown at 2 a.m.,” Sato recalls. “Our tech was there by 3:30 a.m. and had it fixed by dawn. Downtime costs money, so we prioritize fast response.” With CE Mark and ISO 14001 certifications, YLS is the go-to for entrepreneurs looking to break into the lead recycling industry.

Sendai Refinery Innovations (SRI) is all about pushing the envelope. Founded in 2015, this young company uses cutting-edge tech—like nanomaterials and AI—to make lead refining more efficient, cleaner, and smarter. “We believe the future of refining isn’t just about recycling more—it’s about recycling better,” says founder Kento Yamamoto. “That means less energy, less waste, and higher purity.”

Their standout innovations include medium frequency electricity furnace equipment with AI temperature control and nano ceramic ball for ball mill equipment . The AI furnace, the MFE-AI, uses sensors to monitor lead temperature and adjust power in real time, cutting energy use by 15%. “Traditional furnaces often overheat, wasting electricity,” Yamamoto explains. “Our AI learns from past melts to predict the perfect heat curve. A plant in Miyagi saved ¥2 million in energy costs in the first year alone.” The nano ceramic balls, used in ball mills to grind lead ore, are 30% harder than standard steel balls, lasting 5 times longer and reducing metal contamination. “Steel balls wear down, leaving iron in the lead,” Yamamoto notes. “Our ceramic balls are inert, so the lead stays pure.”

SRI is also exploring green energy integration. “We’re testing a furnace that runs on solar power and battery storage,” Yamamoto says. “If successful, it could make off-grid refining possible in remote areas.” With the Japan Green Technology Award and ISO 9001 certification, SRI is quickly becoming a leader in next-gen refining tech—proof that even a century-old industry can be revolutionized.