Blog
You are here: / / Blog

Talk with our team

/0 Comments/in /by

Northwest Sign Recycling hydrostripping technology removes old reflective sheeting from retired aluminum traffic signs so DOTs can reuse the sign blanks.

How Northwest Sign Recycling Helps DOTs Nationwide Extend the Life of Aluminum Traffic Signs

Northwest Sign Recycling helps Departments of Transportation across the United States cut traffic sign replacement costs with hydrostripping technology. We remove old reflective sheeting and laminates, protect the aluminum underneath, and turn retired signs into refurbished sign blanks ready for new use.

Today, DOTs must keep roads safe, manage costs, and meet sustainability goals. At the same time, they handle large sign inventories that require regular updates due to road changes, new rules, worn sheeting, and other infrastructure work.

In many programs, agencies sell retired traffic signs as scrap or send them into standard recycling before buying new aluminum blanks. However, many of those signs still contain sound aluminum that hydrostripping can recover, refurbish, and return to service.

So, for DOTs seeking a smarter, more cost-effective sign recovery strategy, hydrostripping offers a practical option.

For DOTs, counties, and public works agencies, that means a worn sign does not have to become scrap. Instead, agencies can recover sound aluminum panels, refurbish them, and apply new reflective sheeting.

As a result, agencies gain a more practical way to manage sign inventories, control budgets, reuse materials, and plan ahead.

What Is Hydrostripping?

Hydrostripping is a refurbishment process that removes reflective sheeting and laminates from retired traffic signs while keeping the aluminum panel intact.

Unlike standard recycling, hydrostripping does not melt the aluminum down. Instead, it preserves the sign blank so crews can restore it and put it back into service.

The process turns retired signs into refurbished sign blanks that are ready for new reflective sheeting and future roadway use.

As a result, agencies recover more value from existing assets and rely less on newly made aluminum.

Why DOTs Are Looking Beyond Traditional Sign Replacement

Traffic sign replacement represents a significant ongoing expense for transportation agencies.

As aluminum prices shift and budgets tighten, many DOTs look for ways to extend asset life without giving up safety or performance.

In many cases, agencies retire signs because the reflective sheeting wears out, not because the aluminum panel fails.

By restoring the original substrate rather than replacing it entirely, agencies can:

  • Reduce sign replacement costs
  • Extend the life of existing aluminum assets
  • Improve budget efficiency
  • Reduce procurement costs
  • Support sustainability initiatives
  • Minimize landfill waste
  • Decrease demand for newly manufactured aluminum

Because of that, agencies can get more value from materials they already own.

Refurbishment vs. Traditional Recycling

When aluminum traffic signs enter standard recycling, crews usually melt the material down and process it into new products.

Although recycling keeps aluminum out of landfills, it still uses significant energy and resources to make a new sign blank.

Hydrostripping takes a different path.

Instead of breaking the sign down to raw material, the process keeps the original aluminum substrate and prepares it for another service cycle.

For many transportation agencies, refurbishment represents the highest-value use of retired sign materials because it:

  • Preserves existing assets
  • Reduces manufacturing demand
  • Lowers replacement costs
  • Extends material life cycles
  • Delivers measurable sustainability benefits

So, rather than treating retired signs as scrap, agencies can treat them as useful assets with real remaining value.

Reducing Costs Through Asset Recovery

Transportation agencies now manage more roadway assets with tighter budgets and greater accountability.

Refurbished aluminum sign blanks help agencies control material costs. As a result, they do not have to buy newly made panels for every project.

For DOTs that manage thousands of signs, those savings can add up quickly.

Hydrostripping helps agencies stretch maintenance budgets while they keep roads safe and compliant.

Therefore, agencies can protect budgets without lowering standards.

Supporting Sustainability Goals Without Compromising Performance

Today, public infrastructure plans often focus on sustainability and waste reduction.

When agencies refurbish existing sign blanks, they keep usable material in circulation and rely less on new manufacturing.

Benefits include:

  • Reduced landfill waste
  • Conservation of natural resources
  • Lower energy consumption compared to producing new aluminum
  • Reduced environmental impact from manufacturing
  • Support for circular economy initiatives
  • Improved sustainability reporting opportunities

Because of that, hydrostripping works well for agencies that want clear environmental gains without giving up performance.

A Chemical-Free Process That Preserves the Aluminum Substrate

Northwest Sign Recycling uses a chemical-free hydrostripping process to remove reflective sheeting and laminates while protecting the aluminum underneath.

We keep the original panel intact because that step drives the value of the process.

As a result, agencies can extend the life of existing sign inventories instead of destroying usable material.

Scalable Solutions for Transportation Agencies

Whether an agency manages a city sign program or a statewide network, it needs a solution that can scale.

Northwest Sign Recycling processes a wide range of traffic sign types, including:

  • Regulatory signs
  • Warning signs
  • Guide signs
  • Highway signs
  • Street name signs
  • Construction and work-zone signs

Our refurbishment process fits into current maintenance and replacement programs without disrupting daily operations.

Why DOTs Partner With Northwest Sign Recycling

Northwest Sign Recycling helps transportation agencies recover more value from retired traffic signs. Our hydrostripping process keeps sound aluminum in use and returns it as refurbished sign blanks that can go back into service.

Our approach helps agencies:

  • Reduce sign replacement costs
  • Extend the life of aluminum sign inventories
  • Recover value from retired assets
  • Reduce waste
  • Support sustainability goals
  • Improve resource stewardship
  • Reduce dependence on new aluminum production

In addition, we support DOTs, counties, municipalities, and public works agencies across the United States with practical programs that reduce waste and avoid unnecessary replacement spending.

The Future of Traffic Sign Asset Management

As agencies rethink long-term infrastructure costs and environmental goals, asset recovery is becoming a more important part of sign program planning.

Hydrostripping offers a smarter option than a replace-and-discard model because it preserves valuable aluminum assets and prepares them for a new service cycle.

So, agencies can lower waste, improve material stewardship, and gain more value from existing sign inventories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrostripping for traffic signs?
Hydrostripping removes old reflective sheeting and laminates from retired traffic signs while keeping the aluminum underneath so the sign blank can be reused.

Can aluminum traffic signs be reused?
Yes. Many retired aluminum signs still have sound panels after the reflective sheeting wears out, so they work well for refurbishment.

How does hydrostripping help DOTs reduce costs?
Hydrostripping helps DOTs reuse existing sign blanks, buy fewer new panels, and get more value from current assets.

Does Northwest Sign Recycling work with agencies across the United States?
Yes. Northwest Sign Recycling works with DOTs, counties, municipalities, and public works agencies nationwide.

If your Department of Transportation wants a more efficient way to cut replacement costs and extend the life of aluminum sign assets, Northwest Sign Recycling can help.

Talk with our team to learn how hydrostripping can turn retired traffic signs into refurbished sign blanks for their next service cycle.

 

ALUMINUM SIGN RECYCLING Final Report

/in /by

Aluminum Sign Recycling Investigation

Background and Purpose

This report examines the hydro-stripping process for aluminum signs. Conducted by Jon Lazarus at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), the study aimed to determine if hydro-stripped signs meet ODOT specifications. The focus was on whether the anti-corrosive coating is removed during hydro-stripping.

Importance of Hydro-stripping

Hydro-stripping uses high-pressure water to remove reflective sheeting from aluminum signs. This innovative process provides a sustainable option for reusing signs that typically would be discarded. By facilitating recycling, ODOT can contribute to environmental protection while saving costs in sign manufacturing.

Methodology and Standards

ODOT’s sign fabrication involves three main components: aluminum sheeting, an anti-corrosive coating, and reflective sheeting. Due to a recent change in the anti-corrosive coating, two distinct types now exist within ODOT’s inventory. The project established baseline measurements for the hydro-stripping process to assess compliance with standard specifications.

Sign fabrication follows established guidelines, such as ASTM standards. Specific requirements detail the necessary aluminum alloy grade and the adequate application of chromate anti-corrosive coating. ODOT measures this coating using precise weight differences before and after applying the chromate layer.

Sign Fabrication Process

Typically, ODOT fabricates signs internally. This includes purchasing the materials, cutting them to size, applying reflective sheeting, and assembling the signs. In rare cases, ODOT outsources to vendors. Each sign is logged in a database and subsequently deployed to requesting districts.

ODOT relies on certificates from aluminum manufacturers to confirm adherence to anti-corrosive layer standards. Additionally, staff inspect the sheeting for thickness to ensure compliance and quality.

Future Monitoring and Impact

ODOT is conducting long-term performance monitoring of hydro-stripped signs. This testing will assess how well reflective sheeting adheres to the treated aluminum over time. Continuous evaluation helps ensure that reusing hydro-stripped signs does not compromise safety or performance.

In conclusion, the investigation into hydro-stripping aluminum signs showcases the potential for innovation in transportation sign management. By adhering to strict standards while exploring sustainable practices, ODOT can lead the way for other agencies in efficient recycling efforts.

Acknowledgements and Disclaimer

The success of this project is attributed to the Technical Advisory Committee and key contributors like Greg Stellmach and Wendy Every. This report reflects the views of its authors and does not necessarily represent the official positions of ODOT or the United States Department of Transportation. While information is shared for public benefit, neither the State of Oregon nor the U.S. Government assumes responsibility for its use.

ALUMINUM SIGN RECYCLING
Final Report
SR 500-510
by
Jon Lazarus, Researcher, Oregon Department of Transportation
Oregon Department of Transportation
Link to full report (PDF) here.

NORTHWEST SIGN RECYCLING EMBRACES ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

/in /by

Understanding Environmental Stewardship

Environmental stewardship refers to the responsible use and protection of our natural environment. It involves conservation and sustainable practices.

 

Northwest Sign Recycling: A Commitment to Sustainability

BEND, Ore. – July 11, 2013 – Northwest Sign Recycling integrates this stewardship into its daily operations and future objectives. Aluminum production significantly impacts the environment. Northwest Sign Recycling plays a vital role in promoting sustainability through recycling.

 

The Environmental Issues of Aluminum Production

Aluminum does not exist in its pure form; we must extract it from ore. The process of producing aluminum requires about 13 million watt-hours per ton. On average, producing one kilogram of aluminum needs 15.7 kWh of electricity. In contrast, recycled aluminum requires only 5 percent of that energy due to its lower melting point. For instance, recycling one pound of aluminum conserves 90-95% of the energy consumed to produce aluminum from bauxite ore. This recycling effort saves about 7 kWh of electricity. To put this into perspective, you can make 20 recycled cans with the energy used to create just one new aluminum can. Additionally, recycling one can can power a television for three hours. Importantly, recycled aluminum retains the same quality as new aluminum; it is sustainable and recyclable indefinitely without material loss.

 

Northwest Sign Recycling’s Impact

At our facility, we hydrostrip an average of 15 tons of aluminum road signs each year. After stripping old laminates, we can refinish these signs and keep them in service. This practice prevents the aluminum from going back to the smelter, conserving the energy needed to melt it down. Moreover, we recycle an additional 30 tons annually. This process uses less energy and has a lower environmental impact than producing new aluminum.

 

Impressive Savings Statistics

Northwest Sign Recycling’s hydrostripping saves our environment 471,000 kWh each year. Additionally, recycling damaged signs back to the smelters saves another 420,000 kWh annually. To put this into perspective, the average American home consumes about 11,280 kWh per year. Overall, our combined energy savings can power 79 homes for one year. The CO2 emissions avoided from our energy savings equal those produced by 26,194 propane cylinders used for home barbeques. Alternatively, it corresponds to the emissions from 8.3 tanker trucks of gasoline.

 

Inspiring Others to Embrace Stewardship

Increasingly, companies, municipalities, government agencies, and individuals are recognizing the benefits of environmental stewardship. Northwest Sign Recycling is one of these proactive companies, and we aim to inspire others. By showcasing effective recycling and repurposing practices, we hope to encourage everyone to reflect on their environmental stewardship. We urge everyone to ask, “How can I work on my environmental stewardship and strive for sustainability?” Taking steps toward this goal is worthwhile.

 

Resources for Further Reading

 

About Northwest Sign Recycling

Northwest Sign Recycling transforms outdated, weathered aluminum signs into clean, reusable blanks. This approach greatly reduces costs and protects the environment. Since our inception in 2005, we have collaborated with numerous organizations and municipalities across the Western U.S. and nationally.

 

Advantages of Hydrostripping

  • Saves time and money.
  • Allows reuse of existing signs.
  • Reduces the need for sanding blanks or buying new signs.
  • Provides an environmentally friendly recycling option compliant with mandates.
  • Earns credit for damaged, bent, or unusable scrap aluminum signs.
  • Grants recycling credits to individual departmental budgets.
  • Maintains departmental funding allocations for municipal and government clients

For more information about Northwest Sign Recycling, visit http://www.nwsignrecycling.com/.

Sustainability Awards

/in /by
Read more

Oregon Recycles Street and Highway Signs to Save Environment

/in /by

Innovative Sign Recycling: A Win-Win for Oregon’s Environment and Budget

As government agencies strived to be more efficient, Oregon set a powerful example in sign recycling. By teaming up with private companies, the state explored effective ways to recycle old highway and street signs. This initiative not only enhanced sustainability but also reduced costs.

The Pilot Program

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) launched a remarkable pilot program in June 2012. They awarded a $150,000 contract to Northwest Sign Recycling. Their goal was clear: to find cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for reusing old signs. The program was a part of a two-year effort aimed at addressing the ongoing challenge of sign replacement.

Efficient Collection and Processing

To facilitate the recycling process, ODOT distributed sign collection bins at various State Highway Department locations. Citizens and agencies could easily deposit their old signs in these bins. Once collected, the signs underwent an innovative hydrostripping process. This method used “highly pressurized streams of water” to remove lettering and reflective coating from the signs.

This approach was commendable because it avoided chemicals and prevented waste. The result was a clean sign ready for a new lease on life.

Cost Savings and Environmental Impact

The benefits of this program were striking. In just four months, ODOT resurfaced over 500 signs. More impressively, the state saw a significant budgetary improvement, saving 41 percent within its sign budget during that period. These savings could be redirected to other pressing infrastructure needs.

Conclusion: A Model for Other States

Oregon’s sign recycling initiative exemplified what government agencies could achieve through innovation and collaboration. As one looked for ways to enhance their agency’s sustainability efforts, they could consider implementing similar recycling programs. Not only could these lead to substantial cost savings, but they could also significantly benefit the environment. It’s time for other states to take note and follow suit.

Gov Praises Prineville Road-Sign Recycler

/in /by

Celebrating the Sign Recycling Success of Oregon’s Sign Reuse Program

In June 2012, Governor Kitzhaber visited Northwest Sign Recycling (NWSR) and praised the innovative Oregon Sign Reuse pilot program. This initiative, launched in February 2012, demonstrated significant success in reducing costs while promoting sustainability. Government agencies should take note of this effective approach to managing public resources.

A Positive Impact on the Budget

The state’s sign budget experienced an impressive 41% savings during the initial phase of the program. NWSR transformed 500 outdated aluminum street signs through a process called hydrostripping. This technology left the signs in virtually new condition, offering a sustainable solution for municipalities seeking to cut costs.

Governor Kitzhaber highlighted the program’s benefits, stating that it supported local economic development. The success of NWSR underscored the transformative power of collaboration between government and businesses. Such partnerships create positive ripple effects throughout communities and enhance regional economies.

Efficient Sign Recycling Practices

NWSR operated the pilot program under a $150,000 contract from the Oregon State Department of Transportation (ODOT). This collaboration allowed the company to recycle outdated signs effectively. NWSR utilized hydrostripping technology, which involved removing reflective sheets from the aluminum signs with only water.

This innovative method operated at a pressure of 36,000 pounds per square inch. As a result, the aluminum surface remained smooth and clean, ready for new reflective sheeting. Importantly, this process avoided harmful chemicals and erosive solutions, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options available.

Job Creation and Regional Development

Beyond saving money, the program generated new jobs in Central Oregon. NWSR’s efforts not only provided cost-effective solutions for sign recycling but also stimulated economic growth. Local residents benefited from employment opportunities and increased business activity.

ODOT’s Sign Shop in Salem received over 500 resurfaced sign blanks during the pilot program. Lori Webb, from the ODOT Sign Shop, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s early success. She described it as a “true win-win for the environment and Oregon’s sign budget.” Such testimonials highlight the importance of sustainability-focused programs.

A Model for Other States

NWSR’s achievement in Oregon has set a compelling example for other states and municipalities to follow. The pilot project demonstrated that government agencies could achieve substantial cost savings while supporting green initiatives. The results of this program are a powerful testament to the benefits of recycling and sustainable practices.

The collaboration between NWSR and ODOT established a new standard in public resource management. By implementing similar initiatives, other government agencies can also enhance their budgets and help protect natural resources.

Key Benefits of Sign Recycling

Government agencies should consider the numerous advantages of sign recycling. First and foremost, recycling saves municipalities and agencies money. By reusing existing signs, they can reduce the need to purchase new ones, particularly amidst rising aluminum prices.

Additionally, recycling aligns with community recycling mandates. Agencies earn credit for scrap aluminum signs that are damaged or unusable. Such credits can contribute to individual department budgets, ensuring that funding allocations remain intact.

Moreover, recycling services—including the pick-up and delivery of signs—make the process convenient for government agencies. This value-added service strengthens the case for adopting sign recycling as a standard practice.

Conclusion: A Path Forward

In conclusion, Oregon’s Sign Reuse pilot program stands as a shining example for government agencies everywhere. The approach not only resulted in substantial financial savings but also promoted environmental sustainability. The success of this initiative encourages collaboration between public sector entities and innovative businesses like Northwest Sign Recycling.

As government agencies seek ways to improve budget efficiency while supporting community sustainability, they should take a closer look at sign recycling programs. With the lessons learned from Oregon’s experience, these agencies have the opportunity to create a more sustainable future, drive economic growth, and make a positive impact on their communities.

Reflecting on this success, let us work together to adopt similar initiatives nationwide. The future of our communities—and the environment—depends on our commitment to innovation and sustainability.

How Northwest Sign Recycling is Paving the Way for Sustainable Practices for Oregon Streets

/in /by

Sustainable Sign Recycling: A Win for Oregon

In Oregon, a new initiative is turning heads in the world of sustainable practices. A local, woman-owned company, Northwest Sign Recycling (NWSR), is forging ahead with a groundbreaking aluminum sign reuse program. This program, in partnership with the Oregon State Department of Transportation (ODOT), promises to save money and reduce waste.

Transforming Signage

The innovative process involves recycling and refacing weathered highway and street signs. Instead of purchasing new signs, NWSR will repurpose old aluminum signs into clean, reusable blanks. This not only decreases costs but also contributes to job creation in the region. ODOT’s commitment to sustainability shines through in this collaboration.

Hydrostripping Technology

One of the standout features of this program is the hydrostripping technology. This method uses pure water to remove reflective sign sheeting from old aluminum signs. It operates at an impressive 36,000 pounds per square inch. In contrast to traditional methods, hydrostripping leaves the aluminum surface smooth and ready for new reflective sheeting. Importantly, this process is chemical-free and environmentally safe.

Economic Benefits

The financial implications of this program are significant. Lori Webb from ODOT mentioned how this initiative could save the state thousands of dollars. By efficiently reusing materials, the program will lessen the burden on the state’s sign budget. Additionally, NWSR aims to create more jobs within the community. This dual benefit of cost savings and job creation is a compelling reason to support the project.

Community Involvement

NWSR will begin the program by placing sign bins at key locations. These bins will be available at State Highway Department Yards in Bend, La Grande, Troutdale, Roseburg, and Salem. Community members can participate by dropping off old signs and supporting this sustainable initiative. This involvement fosters a sense of shared responsibility and connection among residents.

A Green Future

The implementation of this program marks an exciting step toward a greener future for Oregon. By focusing on sustainable practices, NWSR and ODOT will help mitigate environmental waste. Every recycled sign supports the goal of reducing the carbon footprint. This forward-thinking approach can serve as a model for other states looking to implement similar initiatives.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Northwest Sign Recycling and ODOT exemplifies the power of local businesses working together for sustainability. Through innovative technology and community engagement, this program will not only save money but also protect the environment. As Northwest Sign Recycling leads the charge, Oregonians can feel proud to support a project that offers so many benefits. Together, we can make a positive impact and pave the way for a sustainable future.