In recent years, the world has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the use of lithium-ion batteries. From powering electric vehicles (EVs) that glide silently down our highways to keeping our smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches running throughout the day, these batteries have become the lifeblood of modern technology. But as the demand for these energy-dense power sources grows, so does the challenge of managing their end-of-life cycle. Every year, millions of spent lithium-ion batteries end up in landfills, posing risks of fire, toxic chemical leakage, and squandering precious resources like lithium, cobalt, and nickel—materials that are both finite and critical for future tech and energy solutions.
This is where lithium-ion battery recycling steps in, not just as an environmental necessity but also as an economic opportunity. Recycling these batteries recovers valuable metals, reduces reliance on mining, and cuts down carbon emissions. However, effective recycling isn't possible without the right tools. Enter the unsung heroes of the recycling industry: the suppliers and manufacturers of lithium-ion battery crushing and separation equipment. These companies design, build, and distribute the machinery that turns scrap batteries into reusable materials, bridging the gap between waste and sustainability.
But with so many players in the market, how do you choose a supplier that balances efficiency, reliability, and environmental responsibility? To help you navigate this landscape, we've compiled a list of the top 10 lithium-ion battery crushing and separation equipment suppliers in the United States. These companies have earned their spot through years of innovation, a commitment to quality, and a track record of supporting recycling facilities across the country. Whether you're setting up a new recycling plant or upgrading an existing one, this guide will introduce you to the industry leaders driving the future of battery recycling.
1. EcoCycle Solutions Inc.
Founded in 2005, EcoCycle Solutions Inc. has grown from a small family-owned business in Michigan to one of the most trusted names in the recycling equipment industry. What sets EcoCycle apart is its unwavering focus on sustainability—both in the products it creates and the way it operates. The company's mission is simple: "Turn waste into worth," and this philosophy shines through in every piece of equipment they design.
EcoCycle's li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment is a standout in the market. Designed with modularity in mind, it can be customized to handle different battery sizes, from small smartphone batteries to large EV packs. The system uses a combination of mechanical crushing and air classification to separate metals, plastics, and electrolytes, ensuring high purity in the output materials. What truly impresses, though, is the integration of their air pollution control system equipment. Recognizing that battery recycling can release harmful fumes, EcoCycle includes a multi-stage filtration system that captures particulates and neutralizes toxic gases, helping facilities meet strict EPA standards.
Another area where EcoCycle excels is customer support. The company offers on-site installation, operator training, and 24/7 technical assistance, ensuring that their equipment runs smoothly long after the sale. "We don't just sell machines—we build partnerships," says Sarah Lopez, EcoCycle's customer success manager. "Our clients know they can count on us when they need help scaling up or troubleshooting."
2. GreenTech Recycling Machinery
Based in California's Silicon Valley, GreenTech Recycling Machinery has carved a niche for itself by merging tech industry innovation with recycling expertise. Since 2010, the company has focused on developing cutting-edge equipment that leverages automation and data analytics to boost recycling efficiency. For GreenTech, it's not just about breaking down batteries—it's about doing it smarter.
GreenTech's flagship product, the Li-Sep 3000, is a li-ion battery breaking and separating system that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize the separation process. Equipped with sensors and cameras, the system can identify different battery chemistries in real time and adjust its crushing speed and separation settings accordingly. This means higher recovery rates of valuable metals and less waste. Paired with their compact granulator with dry separator equipment, the Li-Sep 3000 is ideal for facilities with limited space, as it combines multiple processing steps into a single, space-saving unit.
Beyond lithium-ion batteries, GreenTech also offers circuit board recycling equipment, making it a one-stop shop for e-waste recyclers. Their circuit board system works in tandem with their battery equipment, allowing facilities to process both batteries and the electronic waste that often accompanies them (like EV battery management systems or old smartphones). "We saw a gap in the market for integrated solutions," explains Raj Patel, GreenTech's lead engineer. "Many recyclers handle multiple waste streams, so why not design equipment that can adapt?"
With a team of former tech industry engineers, GreenTech is constantly updating its equipment with the latest software, ensuring that clients always have access to the most advanced features. This commitment to innovation has made them a favorite among tech-savvy recycling plants on the West Coast.
3. American Recycling Technologies (ART)
When it comes to experience, few can match American Recycling Technologies (ART). Founded in 1998, ART has been around since the early days of lithium-ion battery adoption, giving them a deep understanding of how battery technology—and recycling needs—have evolved. Headquartered in Ohio, ART prides itself on "American-made quality," with all its equipment designed and manufactured in the U.S., supporting local jobs and ensuring strict quality control.
ART's li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment is built for heavy-duty use. The company's 2000kg/hour system is a workhorse, designed to handle high volumes of batteries with minimal downtime. What makes it unique is its use of hydraulic press machines equipment to pre-process batteries before crushing. This step safely discharges any remaining energy in the batteries, reducing the risk of fires during processing—a critical safety feature that has earned ART a reputation for reliability.
Like EcoCycle, ART prioritizes environmental compliance with its air pollution control system equipment. Their systems include scrubbers and activated carbon filters that not only capture pollutants but also reduce energy consumption by 15% compared to traditional models. "We believe in building equipment that's tough on waste but gentle on the planet," says Mark Henderson, ART's CEO. "Our clients don't have to choose between productivity and sustainability—they get both."
ART also offers extensive training programs for operators, ensuring that every member of a recycling team knows how to use the equipment safely and efficiently. With a network of service centers across the U.S., the company provides quick access to replacement parts, minimizing downtime for its clients.
4. CleanEnergy Equipment Co.
CleanEnergy Equipment Co. entered the scene in 2012 with a bold goal: to make battery recycling accessible to small and medium-sized facilities. Based in Texas, the company noticed that many recycling equipment suppliers focused solely on large-scale operations, leaving smaller players with limited options. CleanEnergy set out to change that by offering compact, affordable, yet high-performance equipment tailored to smaller throughput needs.
CleanEnergy's MiniCycle 500 is a li-ion battery breaking and separating system designed for facilities processing 500 kg of batteries per hour or less. Despite its smaller size, the MiniCycle 500 doesn't skimp on features. It includes a built-in dust collection system, a user-friendly touchscreen interface, and a modular design that allows for future upgrades (like adding a plastic pneumatic conveying system equipment to handle larger volumes of plastic waste). The company also offers hydraulic baler equipment, which compresses the separated metal and plastic fractions into dense bales, making storage and transportation easier and more cost-effective.
What truly makes CleanEnergy a hit with small facilities is its pricing model. The company offers flexible financing options and leases, allowing new recyclers to invest in quality equipment without breaking the bank. "We started CleanEnergy because we believed everyone should have the tools to recycle," says Maria Gonzalez, the company's founder. "A small recycling plant in rural Texas should have access to the same technology as a big facility in California. That's how we'll scale recycling nationwide."
With a focus on simplicity and affordability, CleanEnergy has become a go-to supplier for startups and community-based recycling programs across the country.
5. Advanced Recycling Systems (ARS)
Advanced Recycling Systems (ARS) has been a pioneer in the recycling equipment industry since 1990. Headquartered in Illinois, the company has weathered industry changes by staying ahead of the curve, and nowhere is this more evident than in its lithium-ion battery recycling solutions. ARS specializes in "closed-loop" systems—equipment that handles the entire recycling process, from battery collection to material recovery—ensuring minimal waste and maximum efficiency.
ARS's flagship closed-loop system combines li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment with both water process and dry process equipment, giving recyclers the flexibility to choose the method that best fits their needs. The dry process uses air classification and electrostatic separation to recover metals, while the water process (or wet process) uses density differences to separate materials—ideal for facilities looking to recover high-purity lithium. This dual approach has made ARS a favorite among large-scale recycling plants that handle diverse battery types.
Another standout feature of ARS's equipment is its durability. Built with heavy-duty steel and industrial-grade components, their machines are designed to operate 24/7 with minimal maintenance. "Our equipment is built to last," says John Miller, ARS's sales director. "We have clients who've been using our early lithium-ion systems for over a decade, and they're still running strong. That's the ARS promise."
With a focus on comprehensive solutions and long-term reliability, ARS continues to be a leader in the industry, supporting some of the largest recycling facilities in the U.S.
6. PowerRecycle Machinery
PowerRecycle Machinery, based in Pennsylvania, has made a name for itself by focusing on innovation in battery processing technology. Founded in 2015, the company may be younger than some of its competitors, but it has quickly gained traction by investing heavily in research and development (R&D). PowerRecycle's team of materials scientists and engineers work closely with recycling facilities to understand their pain points and develop solutions that address real-world challenges.
One of PowerRecycle's most innovative products is its dry-separation li-ion battery breaking system. Traditional separation methods often use water, which can be resource-intensive and require additional treatment. PowerRecycle's dry separator uses a combination of mechanical crushing and magnetic separation to recover metals without water, reducing both operating costs and environmental impact. The system is paired with hydraulic cutter equipment that safely slices through battery casings, even for large EV batteries, before crushing—minimizing the risk of short circuits.
PowerRecycle also places a strong emphasis on compliance with air quality regulations. Their air pollution control machines equipment includes high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and thermal oxidizers that eliminate 99% of harmful emissions, ensuring facilities meet OSHA and EPA standards. "We don't just design equipment for today's regulations—we design for tomorrow's," says Dr. Lisa Chen, PowerRecycle's R&D lead. "Our clients can trust that our systems will keep them compliant as environmental standards get stricter."
7. National Recycling Technologies (NRT)
National Recycling Technologies (NRT) has been a fixture in the U.S. recycling industry since 1992, starting with scrap metal recycling equipment before expanding into battery and e-waste solutions. With headquarters in Florida and manufacturing facilities in Georgia, NRT prides itself on its "Made in America" ethos and a commitment to supporting local communities. The company's lithium-ion battery equipment line is known for its ruggedness and adaptability, making it suitable for both urban recycling centers and remote industrial sites.
NRT's li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment is built around a robust 2 shaft shredder, which efficiently breaks down battery casings and electrodes into manageable pieces. The shredder's interlocking blades are made from hardened steel, ensuring they can handle even the toughest battery materials without dulling. After shredding, the material moves through a separation system that uses air flow and magnets to separate metals, plastics, and other components. NRT also offers cable recycling equipment, making it a versatile choice for facilities that process both batteries and the cables that connect them (like EV charging cables or power cords).
What sets NRT apart is its focus on customer collaboration. The company's engineers work closely with clients to design custom systems that fit their specific space and throughput needs. "No two recycling facilities are the same," says Mike Johnson, NRT's lead designer. "A plant in downtown Miami has different constraints than one in rural Georgia. We tailor our equipment to fit those unique situations."
8. Sustainable Battery Solutions (SBS)
Sustainable Battery Solutions (SBS) was founded in 2018 with a singular focus: lithium-ion battery recycling. Based in Colorado, the company recognized the growing need for specialized equipment as EV adoption accelerated, and it set out to become a leader in this niche. SBS differentiates itself by offering turnkey solutions—everything from equipment to installation, training, and ongoing support—making it easy for new recycling facilities to get up and running.
SBS's turnkey li-ion battery recycling system includes a breaking and separating unit, wet process equipment for metal recovery, and an air pollution control system—all integrated into a single package. The wet process equipment uses a proprietary chemical leaching solution that enhances the recovery of lithium and cobalt, increasing the value of the recycled materials. The air pollution control system, meanwhile, includes a scrubber that neutralizes acidic fumes, ensuring a safe working environment.
One of SBS's most popular services is its "Recycling Plant in a Box" program, which provides small to medium facilities with all the equipment they need to start recycling batteries, along with training for operators and help with regulatory compliance. "We want to remove the barriers to entry," says Emma Rodriguez, SBS's founder. "Starting a recycling plant can be overwhelming—permits, equipment, training. We handle the details so our clients can focus on what they do best: recycling."
9. Innovatech Recycling Equipment
Innovatech Recycling Equipment, based in Washington State, is all about pushing the boundaries of what's possible in recycling technology. Founded in 2014 by a team of engineers with backgrounds in renewable energy, the company brings a fresh perspective to battery recycling, focusing on energy efficiency and circular economy principles. Innovatech's equipment is designed to use minimal energy while maximizing material recovery, aligning with the goals of sustainability-focused recycling facilities.
Innovatech's dry process equipment for lithium-ion batteries is a game-changer for energy-conscious facilities. The system uses low-energy air classification and electrostatic separation to recover metals, reducing energy consumption by up to 30% compared to traditional methods. After separation, the plastic fraction is processed using Innovatech's plastic hydraulic briquetter equipment, which compresses plastic waste into dense briquettes that can be sold to plastic recyclers or used as fuel in industrial boilers—turning a waste product into a revenue stream.
The company also offers a unique "energy recovery" feature in its breaking and separating equipment, which captures the heat generated during crushing and uses it to power other parts of the recycling process. "We believe recycling should be as sustainable as the materials it recovers," says Tom Wilson, Innovatech's chief sustainability officer. "Every watt of energy we save is a win for both our clients and the planet."
10. Global Recycling Systems (GRS)
Rounding out our list is Global Recycling Systems (GRS), a company with a global footprint but deep roots in the U.S. Founded in 1999 in New York, GRS has expanded to serve clients in over 50 countries, but its U.S. manufacturing facility in Ohio remains the heart of its operations. GRS is known for its large-scale, high-capacity equipment, making it a top choice for major recycling corporations and government-backed recycling initiatives.
GRS's flagship li-ion battery breaking and separating system is designed for mega-facilities processing up to 2500 kg of batteries per hour. At the core of this system is a 4 shaft shredder, which uses four interlocking shafts to even the largest EV batteries into uniform pieces, ensuring efficient separation downstream. The system also includes a state-of-the-art air pollution control system with multiple filtration stages, including a catalytic converter that breaks down volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during processing.
What makes GRS a global leader is its ability to customize equipment for different regions. For U.S. clients, this means compliance with strict EPA and OSHA regulations, while for international clients, it means adapting to local standards. "We understand that recycling needs vary by location," says David Kim, GRS's global sales director. "Our U.S. clients value our adherence to domestic regulations, while our international partners appreciate our flexibility. That's the GRS advantage."
| Supplier Name | Established | Key Equipment | Specialization | Unique Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoCycle Solutions Inc. | 2005 | Li-ion breaking/separating (500-2500 kg/h), air pollution control | Modular, sustainable systems | 24/7 customer support and EPA-compliant filtration |
| GreenTech Recycling Machinery | 2010 | AI-driven breaking/separating, compact granulator | Tech-integrated, small-space solutions | AI sorting for higher material purity |
| American Recycling Technologies | 1998 | 2000kg/h breaking/separating, hydraulic presses | Heavy-duty, American-made equipment | Safe pre-processing with hydraulic discharge |
| CleanEnergy Equipment Co. | 2012 | MiniCycle 500 (500 kg/h), hydraulic balers | Small/medium facilities, affordability | Flexible financing and space-saving design |
| Advanced Recycling Systems | 1990 | Closed-loop systems, water/dry process | End-to-end recycling solutions | Dual process options for diverse materials |
| PowerRecycle Machinery | 2015 | Dry-separation breaking, hydraulic cutters | Innovation in R&D | Waterless separation to reduce costs |
| National Recycling Technologies | 1992 | 2 shaft shredder, cable recycling equipment | Rugged, adaptable systems | Custom designs for unique facility needs |
| Sustainable Battery Solutions | 2018 | Turnkey systems, wet process equipment | EV-focused, turnkey support | "Recycling Plant in a Box" for easy setup |
| Innovatech Recycling Equipment | 2014 | Dry process, plastic hydraulic briquetter | Energy-efficient, circular economy | Energy recovery from processing heat |
| Global Recycling Systems | 1999 | 2500 kg/h breaking/separating, 4 shaft shredder | Large-scale, global compliance | Customization for U.S. and international standards |
Choosing the right lithium-ion battery crushing and separation equipment supplier is more than just a business decision—it's a step toward a more sustainable future. The companies on this list represent the best of the best in the U.S., each bringing unique strengths to the table: from EcoCycle's commitment to customer support to GreenTech's AI-driven innovation, from CleanEnergy's focus on small facilities to GRS's global reach. Whether you're a startup looking to enter the recycling industry or an established player aiming to upgrade your equipment, these suppliers offer the tools and expertise to turn scrap batteries into valuable resources.
As the demand for lithium-ion batteries continues to grow, so too will the importance of recycling. By investing in reliable, efficient equipment from these top suppliers, you're not just improving your bottom line—you're contributing to a circular economy where waste is minimized, resources are conserved, and the planet is protected. So take the time to research, compare, and find the supplier that aligns with your goals. Together, we can turn the challenge of battery waste into an opportunity for a greener tomorrow.









