Aerosol Can Recycling System - Standard

The system mounts on a standard 55-gallon steel drum. You place an aerosol can on the puncturing unit, which punctures and depressurizes the can. The remaining contents drain into the drum, and an activated carbon filter captures volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during puncturing. The punctured can is then safe to recycle as scrap steel.

The Standard is the entry-level EPA-compliant system. The Super adds a counter and padlock for better compliance tracking (ETV/EPA compliant). The Premium features an enclosed puncturing unit and high-efficiency filter for superior filtration (EPA compliant). The Dual Compliant is the most complete system — required for California Universal Waste Rule compliance — and includes a shut-off valve, check valve, containment sump, and drum lid.

Filter life depends on the types and volumes of aerosol cans processed. Color-changing carbon cartridges make it easy — when the carbon changes color, it's time to replace. Non-color-changing cartridges should be replaced on a regular schedule based on your usage volume. Always keep replacement filters on hand so your system is never out of service.

Yes. All aerosol can recycling systems require a standard 55-gallon steel drum (not included) to collect the liquid contents drained from punctured cans. The drum should be properly managed and disposed of according to your local hazardous waste regulations once full.

Under EPA regulations, non-empty aerosol cans are considered hazardous waste and must be managed accordingly. Using an EPA-compliant recycling system allows you to puncture and depressurize cans, converting them from hazardous waste to recyclable steel — significantly reducing disposal costs. In California, facilities must use a Dual Compliant system under the Universal Waste Rule. Contact us at (800) 869-9633 for help choosing the right system.

Yes. The Standard system meets EPA requirements for aerosol can recycling and allows you to reclassify empty cans as non-hazardous scrap metal. This can save your facility thousands of dollars per year in hazardous waste disposal fees.

Yes. The Counter Accessory ($311.97) can be added at any time. However, if you know you’ll need can tracking for compliance reporting, the Super system ($1,599.99) includes a counter and padlock and may be more cost-effective than buying separately.

The Standard system mounts onto a standard 55-gallon drum with a 2-inch bung opening (drum not included). Most open-head or closed-head steel drums with a 2″ bung will work. The system threads directly into the bung opening — no tools required for installation.