Top 10 Lithium-ion battery crushing and separation equipment Suppliers, Manufacturers, Wholesalers and Traders in Democratic Republic of the Congo

When it comes to integrating technology with local needs, GreenCycle Solutions Kinshasa has carved a niche for itself. Founded in 2015 by a team of Congolese engineers and environmentalists, this family-run business started with a simple mission: to make battery recycling accessible and affordable for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the DRC. Today, they're a go-to name for li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment, with a focus on machines that balance efficiency with ease of use. "We've seen too many foreign companies sell complicated machines that local operators can't maintain," says Jean Mukendi, GreenCycle's lead technician. "Our li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment is designed with the Congolese workshop in mind—durable, easy to repair, and built to handle the unique challenges of our climate." What sets GreenCycle apart is their hands-on approach. They don't just sell equipment; they train local technicians, offer on-site support, and even help businesses design their recycling workflows. Their most popular model, the GCK-500, handles 500 kg/hour of lithium-ion batteries, using a dry separation process that minimizes water usage—a critical feature in regions where water scarcity is a reality. Paired with their air pollution control system equipment, which filters harmful particulates during the breaking process, GreenCycle ensures that recycling operations don't just protect the planet but also the health of workers and nearby communities.

For over a decade, Congo Eco-Recyclers Ltd. has been a pioneer in scaling recycling operations across the DRC's mining regions. Based in Lubumbashi, a hub for cobalt and copper mining, the company recognized early on that the country's role in the battery supply chain shouldn't end with extraction—it should include closing the loop through recycling. "Mines here produce tons of battery-grade materials, but until recently, used batteries were often dumped or exported for recycling," explains CEO Amina Nkulu. "We wanted to keep that value at home." Today, Congo Eco-Recyclers is known for its heavy-duty, industrial-scale equipment, including their flagship li-ion battery recycling plant, which can process 2000 kg/hour. But what truly distinguishes them is their integration of dry process equipment into their systems. Unlike wet processes that require large amounts of water and generate toxic sludge, their dry separation technology uses air classification and electrostatic separation to recover lithium, cobalt, and nickel—critical materials that can be sold back to local battery manufacturers. "Dry process equipment isn't just more sustainable; it's more cost-effective in the long run," Amina adds. "Our clients see a 30% reduction in operational costs compared to wet process setups." The company also prides itself on its community partnerships. They've collaborated with local mining cooperatives to set up recycling centers near mining sites, creating jobs and reducing the need for long-distance transportation of used batteries. Their commitment to transparency has earned them certifications from international sustainability bodies, making them a trusted partner for global companies looking to source recycled materials ethically.

In the eastern DRC, where conflict and instability have historically disrupted industrial development, Sustainable Tech Industries (STI) Goma is proving that resilience and innovation can go hand in hand. Founded in 2018 by a group of Congolese diaspora engineers returning home, STI specializes in modular, portable recycling solutions—equipment that can be set up quickly, even in remote areas. "Many of our clients are small-scale recyclers or NGOs working in conflict-affected regions," says co-founder David Mutombo. "They need equipment that's tough, mobile, and doesn't require a fixed power grid." Their standout product? The STI-Portable Li-ion Crusher, a compact machine that can be transported by truck and operated with a generator. Designed for communities with limited infrastructure, it processes 500 kg/hour of lithium-ion batteries, using a combination of mechanical cutting and air separation. But STI doesn't stop at crushing. They also offer a range of auxiliary equipment, including hydraulic press machines and plastic pneumatic conveying system equipment, which helps collect and transport plastic components from batteries for further recycling. "Auxiliary equipment might not sound glamorous, but it's the glue that holds a recycling operation together," David notes. "A plastic pneumatic conveying system, for example, ensures that plastic fragments from batteries are safely moved to a granulator without exposing workers to dust." STI's focus on accessibility has made them a lifeline for communities looking to turn waste into income. In Goma, they've trained over 200 local youth in recycling techniques, many of whom now run their own small-scale operations using STI equipment.

Kinshasa Recycling Technologies (KRT) is where innovation meets tradition. Based in the capital city, KRT combines cutting-edge engineering with a deep understanding of the DRC's cultural and economic landscape. "We don't just import technology—we adapt it," says technical director Pierre Kazadi. "For example, our circuit board recycling equipment was originally designed for European markets, but we modified it to handle the thicker, more durable circuit boards found in Congolese-made electronics, which are built to withstand power fluctuations." While KRT offers a range of recycling solutions, their expertise in lithium-ion battery recycling has made them a favorite among international NGOs and government projects. Their most requested system is a turnkey li-ion battery breaking and separation system, which includes not just the crusher but also sorting conveyors, dust collectors, and a control panel with easy-to-use touchscreen interface—all designed to be operated by workers with minimal technical training. "We believe in democratizing recycling technology," Pierre explains. "A farmer in Kasai shouldn't need a degree in engineering to run a battery recycling machine." KRT also leads the way in air pollution control, offering systems that meet strict European emissions standards. Their air pollution control machines use multi-stage filtration—including HEPA filters and activated carbon—to capture heavy metals and toxic gases released during battery crushing. "In Kinshasa, where air quality is already a concern, we can't afford to cut corners on pollution control," Pierre adds. "Our systems ensure that recycling doesn't add to the city's environmental challenges."

DRC Clean Energy Solutions isn't just a supplier—they're a visionary in the circular economy space. With offices in Bukavu and Kinshasa, the company focuses on integrating battery recycling with renewable energy projects, creating closed-loop systems that power communities while reducing waste. "Imagine a solar power plant that uses batteries to store energy—and when those batteries die, we recycle them to make new ones," says founder Marie-Claire Tshibala. "That's the future we're building." Their flagship offering is a hybrid recycling system that combines li-ion battery recycling with solar-powered auxiliary equipment. For example, their plastic hydraulic briquetter, which compresses plastic waste from batteries into dense briquettes for resale, is powered by solar panels—a game-changer in areas with unreliable electricity. "Plastic hydraulic briquetter equipment is essential for reducing the volume of plastic waste, making it easier to transport and sell to plastic recyclers," Marie-Claire explains. "By powering it with solar, we lower operating costs and make it accessible to off-grid communities." DRC Clean Energy Solutions also specializes in small-scale, community-focused systems. Their "Eco-Village" package includes a compact li-ion battery crusher (500 kg/hour), a solar-powered hydraulic press machine for metal recovery, and training for 10 local workers. To date, they've installed over 20 such packages in rural communities, turning battery waste into a source of income and clean energy. "We measure success not just by the number of machines we sell, but by the number of lives we impact," Marie-Claire says. "When a village can recycle batteries, sell the recovered materials, and use the profits to fund a school or clinic—that's when we know we're making a difference."

Lubumbashi Industrial Recyclers (LIR) is a heavyweight in the DRC's industrial recycling scene, catering to large-scale mining companies and battery manufacturers. With a focus on efficiency and high-volume processing, LIR has built a reputation for delivering equipment that can handle the toughest recycling challenges. "Mining companies generate tons of waste batteries from their equipment—trucks, drills, even laptops," says operations manager Thomas Kabila. "They need systems that can process that volume quickly and reliably." LIR's answer is their industrial-grade li-ion battery recycling plant, which boasts a capacity of 2500 kg/hour—the highest in the country. The plant uses a combination of shredding, crushing, and dry separation to recover metals, plastics, and electrolytes, with minimal manual intervention. "Automation is key for large-scale operations," Thomas notes. "Our 4 shaft shredder equipment is designed to break down even the most stubborn battery casings, while our dry process equipment ensures that we recover over 95% of valuable materials." What truly sets LIR apart is their in-house R&D team, which constantly innovates to improve recovery rates. Recently, they developed a nano ceramic ball for ball mill equipment, which enhances the grinding efficiency of battery materials, reducing energy consumption by 15%. "Nano ceramic ball equipment might sound technical, but it's the little things that add up," Thomas explains. "Better grinding means more material recovered, which means higher profits for our clients." LIR also prioritizes safety, offering comprehensive air pollution control system equipment that includes scrubbers and catalytic converters to neutralize harmful gases like hydrofluoric acid, a byproduct of lithium battery recycling. "Our clients trust us because we don't compromise on safety or efficiency," Thomas adds. "When you're processing 2500 kg of batteries an hour, you can't afford to cut corners."

Eco-Mining Solutions DRC bridges the gap between mining and recycling, helping mining companies reduce waste and recover value from used equipment. Based in Kolwezi, a major mining town in Katanga Province, the company understands the unique needs of the mining industry—durability, reliability, and the ability to process mixed waste streams. "Mines don't just have lithium-ion batteries; they have lead-acid batteries from trucks, cables, and even circuit boards from old machinery," says founder Joseph Mulenga. "Our strength is in handling that diversity." While their expertise spans multiple recycling areas, Eco-Mining Solutions has recently expanded into lithium-ion battery recycling, launching a specialized li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment line tailored for mining waste. The equipment, which can process 1000 kg/hour, is built to withstand the harsh conditions of mining sites—dust, humidity, and heavy use. "We test our machines in real mining environments before selling them," Joseph says. "If a machine can survive 6 months in a Kolwezi mine, it can survive anywhere." The company also offers a range of auxiliary equipment, including cable recycling equipment and scrap cable stripper equipment, which helps mines recover copper and aluminum from old cables. "Cable recycling equipment is a big part of our business," Joseph adds. "Mines have kilometers of old cables that are often discarded, but they're full of valuable metals. Our scrap cable stripper equipment can strip 50 meters of cable per minute, making it easy to recover that copper." Eco-Mining Solutions prides itself on its partnerships with local mining cooperatives, offering flexible payment plans and on-site maintenance to help small-scale miners afford essential recycling equipment. "We believe recycling should be accessible to everyone, not just the big mining companies," Joseph notes. "By empowering small miners, we're creating a more inclusive circular economy."

Kinshasa Green Machines is all about accessibility and affordability. Founded by a group of young entrepreneurs in 2019, the company saw a gap in the market for low-cost, entry-level recycling equipment that small businesses and startups could afford. "When we started, most recycling machines cost tens of thousands of dollars—way out of reach for someone with a small workshop," says co-founder Felix Tshibangu. "We wanted to build machines that cost a fraction of that, without sacrificing quality." Their solution? Simplified, modular designs that focus on core functionality. Their best-selling product, the KGM-500, is a compact li-ion battery crusher that processes 500 kg/hour, using a basic but effective single shaft shredder and dry separator. "Single shaft shredder equipment is simpler and cheaper to maintain than multi-shaft models, making it perfect for small operations," Felix explains. "We've stripped out the fancy bells and whistles and focused on what matters: breaking batteries safely and recovering materials." Despite their focus on affordability, Kinshasa Green Machines doesn't skimp on safety. All their equipment comes with basic air pollution control features, like dust collectors, and they offer free training on safe operation. "We'd rather make less profit and ensure our clients are safe," Felix says. "A dead worker or a polluted community isn't worth any sale." The company has also pioneered a "pay-as-you-go" model, allowing clients to rent equipment with a small down payment and monthly fees based on usage. "Many of our clients start with a rental, then buy the machine once they're profitable," Felix adds. "It's our way of investing in their success." Today, Kinshasa Green Machines has helped launch over 100 small recycling businesses across Kinshasa and surrounding regions, creating jobs and reducing battery waste in urban areas.

Congo Circular Systems is redefining what it means to be a recycling equipment supplier by focusing on the entire lifecycle of their machines. From design to disposal, the company prioritizes sustainability, ensuring that their equipment is as eco-friendly as the recycling processes it enables. "We believe in walking the talk," says sustainability director Paulin Banza. "If we're selling machines to recycle waste, our own machines shouldn't become waste when they're old." Their approach starts with materials: all their equipment is built using recycled steel and locally sourced components, reducing their carbon footprint. For example, their hydraulic cutter equipment, used to dismantle battery casings, is made from 80% recycled steel. "Hydraulic cutter equipment needs to be strong, and recycled steel is just as strong as new steel—plus it keeps scrap metal out of landfills," Paulin explains. Congo Circular Systems also offers a "Machine Reuse Program," where they buy back old equipment, refurbish it, and resell it at a discount to small businesses. "Many suppliers want you to buy a new machine every few years, but we help you extend the life of your existing one," Paulin adds. Their li-ion battery recycling systems are also designed for easy upgrades, so clients can add new features (like improved separation technology) without replacing the entire machine. In addition to their focus on sustainability, the company is a leader in lithium ore extraction equipment, supporting the responsible mining of lithium to feed the battery supply chain. "Lithium ore extraction equipment is often energy-intensive, so we've optimized our designs to use 20% less electricity than standard models," Paulin notes. "It's all part of creating a truly circular system—from ore to battery to recycling, and back again."

Rounding out our list is the African Battery Recyclers Alliance (ABRA), a unique collective of local and international suppliers working together to strengthen the DRC's recycling infrastructure. Founded in 2020, ABRA brings together expertise from across the globe—including German engineering, Chinese manufacturing, and Congolese on-the-ground knowledge—to create tailored recycling solutions for the DRC market. "We believe collaboration is the key to solving the recycling challenge," says alliance coordinator James Okonkwo. "No single company has all the answers, but together, we can build systems that work for Africa." ABRA's flagship project is a state-of-the-art li-ion battery recycling plant in Kisangani, which combines technology from multiple alliance members. The plant uses a 2 shaft shredder from a German partner for initial breaking, a dry separator from a Congolese member for material recovery, and an air pollution control system from a South African supplier to ensure emissions compliance. "By pooling our strengths, we've created a plant that's more efficient and reliable than any single company could build alone," James explains. The alliance also focuses on knowledge sharing, hosting annual workshops where local suppliers can learn about new technologies and best practices. Their "Tech Transfer" program pairs Congolese engineers with international experts for on-the-job training, ensuring that technical expertise stays in the country. "Our goal is to make the DRC a leader in battery recycling technology, not just a consumer of it," James adds. ABRA's collaborative model has attracted attention from global organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which has funded their efforts to expand recycling infrastructure in rural areas. "Together, we're not just supplying equipment—we're building a movement," James says. "A movement that puts the DRC at the forefront of the global circular economy."