In a world where electronic waste (e-waste) is piling up faster than ever—with over 50 million tonnes generated globally each year—printed circuit boards (PCBs) stand out as one of the most challenging yet valuable components to recycle. Packed with gold, silver, copper, and rare earth metals, PCBs are like hidden treasure troves, but extracting those resources responsibly requires the right tools. That’s where dry process PCB recycling equipment comes in. Unlike wet processes that rely on chemicals and large water inputs, dry systems use air classification, electrostatic separation, and mechanical sorting to recover metals—making them cleaner, more energy-efficient, and easier to scale.
If you’re in the UK and on the hunt for reliable suppliers of this game-changing equipment, you’re in the right place. We’ve scoured the market, talked to industry insiders, and analyzed customer feedback to bring you the top 5 dry process PCB recycling equipment suppliers in 2025. Whether you’re a small scrapyard looking to expand or a large recycling facility aiming to upgrade your operations, these suppliers offer solutions tailored to your needs. Let’s dive in.
1. EcoCycle Tech – The Pioneer of Compact Dry Systems
About EcoCycle Tech
Founded in 2010 in Manchester, EcoCycle Tech has built a reputation as the go-to for businesses prioritizing space efficiency without sacrificing performance. What started as a small team of engineers with a passion for sustainable recycling has grown into a leading supplier, serving over 200 clients across Europe—including SMEs and multinational corporations like electronics manufacturers and waste management firms.
Core Dry Process Equipment
EcoCycle’s star product? Their compact granulator with dry separator equipment , a all-in-one system designed for facilities with limited floor space. The machine combines a high-speed granulator (to shred PCBs into small particles) with an integrated dry separator that uses air flow and electrostatic charges to separate metals from non-metals. Think of it as a “mini recycling plant” in one unit—no need for separate shredders, conveyors, or sorting machines.
But they don’t stop there. EcoCycle also offers a circuit board recycling plant with dry separator (model ECD-1500) for larger operations, boasting a processing capacity of 500-1500 kg/hour. This system adds a pre-shredder for thicker PCBs (like those from industrial machinery) and a multi-stage air classifier to boost metal recovery rates—up to 98% for copper and 95% for gold, according to third-party tests.
Why They Stand Out
What really sets EcoCycle apart is their focus on user-friendliness. Many recycling machines require specialized training, but EcoCycle’s systems come with a touchscreen interface that walks operators through setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance. “We had zero experience with dry process equipment before,” says Mark Thompson, operations manager at a Bristol-based e-waste recycler. “EcoCycle’s team spent two days training our staff, and now even our new hires can run the machine after an hour of orientation.”
Another win? Their after-sales support is second to none. They offer a 5-year warranty on all critical components (unheard of in the industry, where 1-2 years is standard) and a 24/7 helpline with average response times under 30 minutes. For businesses worried about downtime, this is a game-changer.
Real-World Impact
Take GreenWaste Midlands, a small e-waste recycler in Birmingham. Before switching to EcoCycle’s compact granulator in 2023, they relied on a manual sorting process that recovered only 60% of metals and took 3 staff 8 hours to process 500 kg of PCBs. Now, with the EcoCycle system, one operator can handle 800 kg in 4 hours, and metal recovery has jumped to 92%. “Our profits from PCB recycling tripled in the first year,” says owner Sarah Patel. “We even expanded our services to take on more clients because the machine is so efficient.”
2. GreenWaste Solutions – The High-Capacity Heavyweight
About GreenWaste Solutions
If EcoCycle is the “space-saver expert,” GreenWaste Solutions, based in Leeds, is the “heavy lifter” of the UK’s dry process PCB recycling scene. Established in 2005, they’ve made a name for themselves by designing systems that can handle industrial-scale volumes—think 2000+ kg/hour—without breaking a sweat. Their clients include major e-waste processors and government-backed recycling hubs, like the London Waste and Recycling Board’s flagship facility.
Core Dry Process Equipment
GreenWaste’s flagship offering is the 2000kg/hour circuit board recycling plant WCB-2000C with dry separator (they partner with a German manufacturer for the base model but customize it for UK regulations). This beast of a system starts with a dual-shaft shredder to break down PCBs into 10-20mm flakes, followed by a granulator to refine particles to 1-3mm. The real magic? Their proprietary “triboelectric separator,” which uses friction to charge metal and plastic particles differently, ensuring even tiny metal fragments (down to 0.1mm) are captured.
For clients with mixed waste streams (like PCBs plus cables or plastic), they also offer a plastic pneumatic conveying system equipment add-on. This optional module uses air pressure to transport non-metal waste (plastics, resins) to a separate storage bin, keeping the main processing line focused on metal recovery. It’s a small detail, but it cuts down on manual sorting time by up to 40%, according to GreenWaste’s case studies.
Why They Stand Out
GreenWaste’s biggest selling point is reliability under pressure. Their systems are built with industrial-grade steel and components rated for continuous 24/7 operation—critical for facilities that run multiple shifts. “We process 15 tonnes of PCBs a day, 6 days a week,” says James Wilson, plant manager at a national e-waste recycler in Sheffield. “In three years, we’ve only had two unplanned shutdowns, and GreenWaste’s engineers were on-site within 4 hours both times.”
They also prioritize compliance, which is a big deal in the UK’s strict regulatory environment. All their dry process equipment comes pre-certified to meet the Environment Agency’s emissions standards (no toxic dust, minimal noise) and is fully GDPR-compliant for data security (important for PCBs from businesses that handle sensitive information). “We never have to worry about audits,” Wilson adds. “GreenWaste provides all the documentation we need—emissions reports, safety logs, even training records for staff.”
Real-World Impact
Take the Midlands Recycling Hub, a government-funded facility in Coventry. Before installing GreenWaste’s WCB-2000C in 2022, they struggled to keep up with the region’s e-waste influx, processing only 8 tonnes of PCBs daily. Now, with the 2000kg/hour system, they’re up to 20 tonnes/day, and metal recovery rates have increased from 85% to 97%. “We’ve been able to create 12 new jobs because of the extra capacity,” says hub director Emma Clarke. “And because dry process equipment uses 90% less water than our old wet system, we’ve cut our utility bills by £40,000 a year.”
3. RecyclePro UK – The Innovation Leader
About RecyclePro UK
Based in Edinburgh, RecyclePro UK is the new kid on the block (founded in 2015) but has quickly made waves with its cutting-edge technology. Their team of material scientists and engineers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what dry process equipment can do—think AI-powered sorting and IoT-connected machines that predict maintenance needs before breakdowns happen.
Core Dry Process Equipment
RecyclePro’s claim to fame is their AI-driven circuit board recycling plant with dry separator (model RP-3000AI). This system uses cameras and machine learning algorithms to identify different types of PCBs (e.g., computer motherboards vs. smartphone PCBs) as they enter the line, then adjusts the shredder speed and separator settings in real-time for optimal recovery. For example, smartphone PCBs are thinner and have more gold, so the system slows the shredder to avoid pulverizing the metal into dust. The result? Up to 10% higher gold recovery compared to standard dry systems, according to independent lab tests.
They also offer a dry process equipment upgrade kit for existing recycling lines. Many UK facilities already have basic shredders but lack efficient separators—RecyclePro’s kit adds their AI sorting module and electrostatic separator to these lines, turning outdated equipment into high-performance systems at a fraction of the cost of buying new.
Why They Stand Out
RecyclePro’s secret weapon is their focus on data. Every machine comes with a cloud-based dashboard that tracks key metrics: tons processed, metal recovery rates, energy usage, and even wear on parts like shredder blades. “The dashboard alerts us when blades are 80% worn, so we can ｒｅｐｌａｃｅ them during scheduled downtime instead of waiting for a breakdown,” says Liam O’Connor, technical director at an electronics recycling firm in Glasgow. “It’s like having a crystal ball for maintenance.”
They’re also pioneers in “closed-loop” recycling. Their systems can integrate with downstream metal refining equipment (like smelters) to create a fully circular process—PCBs go in, pure metal ingots come out, with zero waste sent to landfills. “We worked with RecyclePro to design a closed-loop line for a client in Ireland,” O’Connor adds. “The client now sells recycled copper back to electronics manufacturers, turning waste into a revenue stream.”
Real-World Impact
A prime example is TechRecycle Scotland, a startup that opened in 2023 with a focus on “urban mining” (recovering metals from e-waste). They invested in RecyclePro’s RP-3000AI system and quickly became a standout in the industry. “In our first year, we recovered 2.5kg of gold from 100 tonnes of PCBs—something we couldn’t have done with older equipment,” says founder Aisha Khan. “The AI system even helped us identify a batch of vintage computer PCBs with unusually high silver content—we sold that silver for £12,000 more than we budgeted!”
4. EcoTech Innovations – The Eco-Friendly Specialist
About EcoTech Innovations
Based in Bristol, EcoTech Innovations was born from a simple mission: make dry process PCB recycling not just efficient, but hyper-sustainable . While most suppliers focus on metal recovery, EcoTech goes the extra mile to minimize energy use, reduce emissions, and even repurpose non-metal waste (like plastic from PCBs) into usable products.
Core Dry Process Equipment
EcoTech’s flagship is their dry process equipment line called “EcoDry,” which includes a circuit board recycling plant with dry separator (model ED-1800) and a配套 air pollution control system equipment . The separator uses 30% less energy than competitors by leveraging low-pressure air flow and magnetic sorting (for ferrous metals like iron) before electrostatic separation. But the real star is the air pollution control system: it captures 99.9% of dust and particulates, then filters and recycles the air back into the facility—no need for external ventilation, which cuts heating costs in winter.
They also offer a unique add-on: a plastic pelletizer that turns non-metal waste from PCBs into pellets for 3D printing filament. “Why throw away plastic when it can be turned into something useful?” says EcoTech’s founder, Dr. Lisa Patel. “Our clients have sold these pellets to 3D printing companies, adding another revenue stream while keeping plastic out of landfills.”
Why They Stand Out
EcoTech’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond their equipment. They’re a carbon-neutral company themselves—their Bristol factory runs on solar power, and they offset any remaining emissions by funding reforestation projects. They also offer a “green financing” program: clients who commit to recycling 100% of their non-metal waste (using EcoTech’s pelletizer) get a 5% discount on equipment. “We wanted to reward businesses that share our values,” Patel explains.
Their customer service also shines for eco-conscious clients. They provide free carbon footprint assessments for clients’ recycling operations, showing how much CO2 they’ve saved by switching to dry process equipment. “It’s not just about profits—it’s about proving to our stakeholders that we’re serious about sustainability,” says Tom Green, sustainability manager at a UK electronics retailer that uses EcoTech’s systems. “EcoTech’s reports help us meet our ESG goals and market ourselves as a green business.”
Real-World Impact
Brighton-based e-waste recycler GreenCycle adopted EcoTech’s EcoDry system in 2024. In their first 6 months, they reduced their water usage by 100% (no more wet processing) and cut energy costs by £18,000. “We also sold £5,000 worth of plastic pellets to local 3D printing shops,” says GreenCycle’s owner, Mike Roberts. “And because we’re carbon-neutral, we’ve won contracts with universities and local councils that prioritize green suppliers. EcoTech didn’t just sell us a machine—they helped us rebrand as a sustainability leader.”
5. Sustainable Systems Ltd – The Budget-Friendly Option
About Sustainable Systems Ltd
Not every business has the budget for AI-powered or industrial-scale systems—and that’s where Sustainable Systems Ltd, based in Nottingham, comes in. Founded in 2012, they specialize in affordable dry process equipment that’s perfect for startups, small scrapyards, and community recycling centers.
Core Dry Process Equipment
Sustainable Systems’ bestseller is their entry-level compact granulator with dry separator equipment (model SS-500). Priced at around £35,000 (compared to £80,000+ for high-end systems), it’s designed for small-scale operations processing 100-500 kg/hour. The machine is simple but effective: a single-shaft shredder, a granulator, and a basic air separator that uses density differences to separate metals (heavier) from plastics (lighter). It’s not as flashy as AI-driven systems, but it gets the job done for businesses just starting out in PCB recycling.
They also offer a “Starter Package” that includes the SS-500, training for 2 staff, and a 2-year warranty—all for under £40,000. “We wanted to make dry process recycling accessible to everyone,” says company director Paul Evans. “Too many small businesses get priced out of sustainable recycling, so they stick with manual sorting or send PCBs to landfills. That’s bad for the planet and bad for their bottom line—PCBs have valuable metals that could be putting money in their pockets.”
Why They Stand Out
Sustainable Systems’ biggest draw is their transparency and affordability. They don’t upsell unnecessary features—instead, they work with clients to assess their needs and recommend the simplest system that meets their goals. “When we first contacted them, we were overwhelmed by technical jargon from other suppliers,” says Raj Singh, who runs a small scrapyard in Leicester. “Paul [Evans] took the time to explain what we actually needed: a basic system to process 300 kg/day. The SS-500 does exactly that, and we’re already seeing a return on investment after 6 months.”
They also offer flexible financing, including rent-to-own options, which is a lifesaver for startups with tight cash flow. “We couldn’t afford to buy outright, so we’re renting the SS-500 with an option to purchase after 2 years,” Singh adds. “The monthly payments are less than what we were losing by not recycling PCBs properly.”
Real-World Impact
Take Community Recycle Hub, a charity-run center in Liverpool that teaches locals about e-waste recycling. In 2023, they received a ｇｒａｎｔ to start a small PCB recycling program but had a budget of only £45,000. Sustainable Systems’ Starter Package fit perfectly. “We now process 200-300 kg of PCBs a week, and the metal we recover funds our youth training programs,” says hub manager Sarah Jones. “The kids even help operate the machine as part of their vocational training—it’s a win-win: we’re recycling, creating jobs, and teaching skills.”
How Do They Compare? A Quick Overview
| Supplier | Best For | Key Equipment | Processing Capacity | Unique Selling Point | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoCycle Tech | Space-limited facilities | Compact granulator with dry separator, ECD-1500 plant | 500-1500 kg/hour | User-friendly, 5-year warranty | £50,000 – £120,000 |
| GreenWaste Solutions | Industrial-scale operations | WCB-2000C (2000kg/hour), pneumatic conveying system | 2000+ kg/hour | Heavy-duty, 24/7 operation | £150,000 – £300,000 |
| RecyclePro UK | Tech-forward businesses | RP-3000AI (AI sorting), upgrade kits | 1000-3000 kg/hour | AI-driven recovery, predictive maintenance | £120,000 – £250,000 |
| EcoTech Innovations | Sustainability-focused clients | EcoDry ED-1800, air pollution control system | 800-1800 kg/hour | Low energy use, plastic repurposing | £80,000 – £180,000 |
| Sustainable Systems Ltd | Startups, small budgets | SS-500 compact granulator, Starter Package | 100-500 kg/hour | Affordable, entry-level | £35,000 – £50,000 |
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Supplier for You
When it comes to dry process PCB recycling equipment in the UK, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your choice depends on your facility size, budget, processing needs, and sustainability goals.
If you’re tight on space and want user-friendly equipment, EcoCycle Tech is your best bet. For industrial-scale volumes, GreenWaste Solutions won’t let you down. Tech lovers should check out RecyclePro’s AI-driven systems, while eco-warriors will appreciate EcoTech’s hyper-sustainable approach. And if you’re just starting out, Sustainable Systems Ltd makes dry process recycling accessible.
No matter which supplier you choose, one thing is clear: dry process equipment is the future of PCB recycling. It’s cleaner, more efficient, and more profitable than traditional wet processes—so why wait? The sooner you invest, the sooner you’ll be turning e-waste into revenue while doing your part for the planet.
Ready to take the next step? Reach out to a few suppliers for quotes and site visits—most offer free consultations to help you find the perfect system. Happy recycling!
