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How Scrap Cars Are Processed at an ATF

buyer@webuyscrapcarsandvans.co.uk 2 min read

Ever wondered what happens to your car after our collection driver takes it away? Here is a detailed look at how vehicles are processed at our licensed Authorised Treatment Facility, from arrival to final recycling.

Arrival and Documentation

When your vehicle arrives at our facility, it is logged into our system with full documentation including the V5C details, your information, and the vehicle identification number. This paperwork trail is a legal requirement and ensures full traceability. DVLA is notified and your Certificate of Destruction is generated.

Depollution

The first physical process is depollution — removing all hazardous substances from the vehicle. Our trained technicians drain engine oil, gearbox oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and fuel into separate collection systems. Air conditioning gas is recovered using specialist equipment. The battery is removed and sent for separate recycling. This stage is critical for environmental protection.

Parts Assessment and Removal

Our car dismantlers then assess the vehicle for salvageable parts. Working systematically, they remove engines, gearboxes, alternators, starter motors, body panels, headlights, mirrors, and any other components with resale value. These parts are tested, cleaned, catalogued, and stored for sale through our used car parts service.

Tyre and Glass Removal

Tyres are removed and sent for recycling into products like rubber crumb for playgrounds and sports surfaces. Windscreens and other glass are removed for separate recycling into new glass products or construction materials.

Shell Processing

The depolluted, stripped shell is then crushed and processed through industrial shredding equipment. Magnetic separation removes ferrous metals, while eddy current separators extract non-ferrous metals like aluminium and copper. The separated metals are baled and sent to smelters for reprocessing.

Recycling Achievement

Through this thorough process, our breakers yard achieves recycling and recovery rates exceeding 95%, well above the regulatory minimum. Every component is accounted for and processed responsibly.

See the process in action. Get a free quote and scrap your car the right way. Scotland-wide free collection.

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