Hydrostripping for DOTs: Reusing Aluminum Traffic Signs Instead of Scrapping Them
Learn how hydrostripping gives DOTs a sustainable alternative to scrapping retired aluminum traffic signs while preserving the underlying aluminum blank.
What Happens to Retired Traffic Signs?
Retired traffic signs do not simply disappear after crews remove them from the road. Instead, traffic sign recycling helps agencies recover old aluminum signs, process them, and prepare the material for reuse or responsible recycling. As a result, municipalities, transportation agencies, and contractors can reduce waste, support sustainability goals, and recover value from retired sign […]
ALUMINUM SIGN RECYCLING Final Report
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 […]