What to Do with Used Rubber Tracks: A Comprehensive Guide

[MikePhua]

Rubber tracks are essential components for many types of machinery, especially compact track loaders (CTLs), mini excavators, and other tracked vehicles. Over time, these tracks wear down due to constant use on rough terrains, making it necessary to replace them. However, when it comes time to dispose of or repurpose used rubber tracks, many owners are unsure of the best course of action. In this guide, we will explore the different options available for handling used rubber tracks, from recycling and repurposing to disposal, and we’ll delve into the environmental and economic benefits of each option.
What Are Rubber Tracks?
Rubber tracks are used in various heavy equipment, including mini excavators, skid-steer loaders, and compact track loaders. These tracks are designed to provide traction and stability on rough and uneven terrains, such as mud, snow, or loose soil. Unlike traditional steel tracks, rubber tracks offer a smoother ride and are less damaging to delicate surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete.
Rubber tracks are typically made from a combination of rubber, steel, and fabric, giving them the flexibility and durability required to handle heavy loads while minimizing wear and tear on the vehicle and the surface it’s operating on.
Why Should Used Rubber Tracks Be Recycled or Repurposed?
Replacing worn-out rubber tracks can be costly, but disposing of them irresponsibly can have negative environmental impacts. Many used rubber tracks end up in landfills, where they can take decades to decompose. By recycling or repurposing used tracks, you can reduce waste, conserve resources, and potentially even recover valuable materials, such as steel and rubber.
Recycling and repurposing also make economic sense, as it allows for a reduction in material costs for new rubber tracks, while also decreasing the overall environmental footprint of your business or construction project.
Options for Dealing with Used Rubber Tracks
1. Recycling Rubber Tracks
One of the most responsible and environmentally-friendly ways to handle used rubber tracks is to recycle them. Rubber recycling is a growing industry, and many companies specialize in processing rubber products, including used tracks, to create new materials.
Recycling rubber tracks involves breaking down the rubber into its component parts: rubber, steel, and sometimes fabric. The rubber can be reprocessed into new products, while the steel can be melted down and used in other manufacturing processes. Some companies also use the recycled rubber in products like rubber mats, flooring, or even playground surfaces.
Steps in Rubber Recycling:

• Collection and Transportation: Used tracks are collected from businesses, construction sites, or vehicle dealerships and transported to a recycling facility.
  
• Separation of Materials: At the recycling facility, the rubber is separated from the steel or fabric components. This is done using specialized machines that break down the tracks into manageable parts.
  
• Processing: Once separated, the rubber is processed into smaller particles or pellets that can be reused in the manufacturing of new rubber products.
  
• Steel Recovery: The steel found in the tracks is typically melted down and repurposed in various industries, reducing the demand for new steel.
  

2. Repurposing Used Rubber Tracks
Repurposing used rubber tracks is another viable option. In some cases, used tracks can be reused on equipment with less demanding workloads, or they can be repurposed for other uses entirely.
Some businesses and operators may choose to install the tracks on machines that don’t require maximum performance, thus extending the useful life of the tracks. For example, older or lower-capacity equipment, or machines that are used in less intensive environments, may benefit from repurposed tracks.
Additionally, used rubber tracks can be repurposed for non-industrial uses, such as:

• Landscaping and Farming: Rubber tracks can be repurposed as mats for pathways, driveways, or even farm lanes to reduce soil compaction in sensitive areas.
  
• Recreational Uses: In certain cases, old rubber tracks are repurposed for creating walkways, or they can be used for DIY projects such as custom outdoor furniture, garden edging, or even as rubber bases for play equipment.
  
• Construction Projects: Some contractors use old rubber tracks for temporary solutions in construction, like mats for vehicles to drive over to prevent damage to sensitive or wet grounds.
  

3. Selling Used Rubber Tracks
In some cases, used rubber tracks that are still in good condition can be sold. Many contractors, small operators, and equipment dealers may be willing to buy pre-owned tracks, especially if they have remaining life left in them. This can be a great way to recover some of the initial costs spent on new tracks.
When selling used rubber tracks, it’s important to check their condition thoroughly. Inspect the tread wear, cracks, and any other signs of damage. Tracks that have minimal wear and are still serviceable can fetch a good price, especially if they’re compatible with popular machinery brands.
If you are unsure whether your tracks are still usable, you can ask a professional to inspect them or inquire with a dealer who specializes in used parts.
4. Donating Used Rubber Tracks
If the used tracks are in good enough condition, consider donating them to organizations or educational programs. Some vocational schools and community colleges that have heavy equipment training programs may accept used rubber tracks for educational purposes. This provides students with hands-on experience and extends the life of the tracks.
Additionally, some nonprofit organizations working in developing countries may use heavy machinery, including compact track loaders and excavators, for agricultural or construction purposes. They might welcome donations of used rubber tracks to help extend the life of their equipment.
5. Proper Disposal of Rubber Tracks
If none of the above options are feasible, disposal may be necessary. However, simply throwing away rubber tracks is not ideal, as they take a long time to degrade in landfills. To minimize environmental impact, it’s important to work with a waste management company that can properly handle industrial waste.
Many local municipalities and waste management companies have recycling programs for large rubber products. By utilizing these services, you can ensure the tracks are disposed of in an environmentally responsible way, with an emphasis on recycling and minimizing landfill waste.
Environmental Impact and Benefits of Recycling
Recycling rubber tracks has significant environmental benefits. Here are a few reasons why recycling and repurposing are the most sustainable options:

• Reduced Landfill Waste: Recycling and repurposing rubber tracks prevent them from sitting in landfills for decades, where they would take a long time to decompose.
  
• Resource Conservation: Recycling rubber and steel reduces the need for new raw materials, which helps conserve natural resources and energy. This, in turn, reduces environmental degradation and energy consumption.
  
• Lower Carbon Footprint: Recycling rubber tracks reduces the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new rubber products, helping to mitigate climate change.
  

Conclusion
Used rubber tracks, like those found on mini excavators, skid-steer loaders, and other machinery, don’t have to end up in landfills. There are numerous ways to recycle, repurpose, or sell used tracks, each with its environmental and economic advantages. By exploring options such as recycling, repurposing, or donating used tracks, equipment owners and operators can not only help reduce waste but also save on material costs and contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether through reusing on equipment, repurposing for landscaping, or donating to educational or non-profit causes, there are many practical and creative ways to extend the life of used rubber tracks.