Articles

Power Factor Capacitor Disposal

Electrical equipment is commonly used within businesses, many of which contain PCB hazardous materials, although the production of PCBs is no longer permitted there are still many items existing due to its widespread use. Polychlorinated biphenyls or PCBs as they are widely known are harmful man-made organic chemicals, used as coolants and insulating fluids found in many items, such as power factor capacitors, transformers, electrical resistors and lots more. PCBs are fire-resistant, which is just one of the reasons for their use in a variety of products, as well as being chemically inert and remaining stable when in high temperatures, however the dangers of PCBs outweigh the advantages.

PCBs are classed as persistent organic pollutants, they are toxic and do not decompose readily, therefore presenting serious dangers to both humans and the environment. When products containing PCBs are sent to landfill or incinerated they can create dangerous bi-products which harm the environment, polluting air and water. Due to these harmful effects and impacts on humans and the environment, the use and production of PCBs was banned in the late 1970s, with a further extension to ban the repair, sale or reinstallation of PCB capacitors in the UK in 1986.

The Environmental Agency introduced rules and regulations relating to the treatment and disposal of equipment that may contain PCBs, making it difficult for any business to incorrectly treat and dispose of their PCB contaminated waste. For any business wanting to dispose of PCBs in any items like capacitors or transformers, the best solution is to use an experienced waste management company. Mytum & Selby Waste Recycling are experts when it comes to waste treatment, disposal and recycling, offering many waste management services including collection, treatment and disposal of power factor capacitors and any equipment containing PCB hazardous waste.

With strict legislation and hefty fines in place for those incompliant with regulations, it is essential that businesses use a reliable, trustworthy waste management company. By using Mytum & Selby to manage your PCB hazardous waste, with a company aim of zero waste to landfill, you can be sure you are compliant with all rules and legislation, as well as knowing that you are contributing towards reducing the harmful effects on human health and the environment.

For any quotes or more information on power factor capacitor disposal or PCB hazardous waste please contact the team on 01977 683570 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .