Why don't they want aluminum cans smashed for recycling?

Answer 1

Hmmm, that's strange. My understanding is that they won't recycle them if they are not...and if they are smashed COMPLETELY flat, then they will pay you more (if you are paid at all).

Answer 2

Simple. Sharp edges.

Often the recyclers are required to stick their hands into a pile to loosen up the cans. It really hurts if the cans have been smashed so that sharp edges are everywhere.

Lawsuits brought by workers have ensured that you cannot crush them.

Oh, and smashed/nonsmashed does not change the value of the metal. You others are so wrong!

Answer 3

it must just be a local thing for you. Our local recycling takes aluminum cans anyway they can get them. Although I guess that smashed cans would cause for liquid to become trapped inside making for more weight.

Answer 4

u cant recycle alluminium as easy, they do recycle it in some parts

u just have to take them to a specialist recycler but u have to separate the base parts first (so it takes more energy) and costs more so its not woorth it at moment

Answer 5

I think the recyclers are afraid that something aside from air may be left in the can, it could damage their machinery.

Answer 6

The like to smash themselves, when they are done they move on to popping the bubble wrap.

Answer 7

most if not all places dont care if theyre smashed or not. they even prefer them to be smashed. i dont see why it would matter, the weight is still the same.

Answer 8

See Nancy Kay's answer. MAC

Answer 9

i think they have a huge smasher and if the can is already in bad shape it doesn't work as well...just a guess

Answer 10

because they have to read the bar code to count it, so that people don't lie about how many they gave.