DPF, DOC, and Catalyst Recycling: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is DPF Recycling Profitable?
Many companies and individuals wonder if DPF recycling can be profitable. The answer is: it depends on the type of DPF or DOC being recycled. The value of a scrap unit primarily comes from the amount of platinum and palladium contained in the wash coat of the ceramic substrate inside the metal canister.
At DPF Recycler, we’ve spent over a decade testing and evaluating DPF systems to determine their recyclable value. Our experience shows that prices can vary significantly between part numbers. Even units from the same make or model can differ in value by hundreds of dollars.
By understanding the specific precious metal content in each system, we help companies maximize the return on their recycled DPFs and DOCs, turning end-of-life components into a valuable resource.

2. Who pays the shipping
One of the advantages of working with DPF Recycler is that we cover 100% of your shipping costs.
For small shipments of a single unit or just a few parts, we provide free UPS labels that can be easily printed from your online account.
For larger quantities, simply reach out to us and we can arrange truck pickup at your location (typically within 24 hours). We also offer complimentary container service for companies with ongoing recycling needs, making it easier than ever to keep your DPFs, DOCs, and catalysts moving efficiently through our program.

3. Do You Purchase Catalytic Converters and Other Components?
Yes! We buy catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters (DPFs), and diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs). When our company began in 2007, our primary focus was on purchasing standard gas catalytic converters for cars and trucks.
Today, while the majority of our business focuses on DPF system recycling, we continue to purchase catalytic converters from companies and individuals across the United States, providing a reliable and convenient option for turning these components into value.

4. How We Determine Recycling Value
We use XRF technology to accurately assess the recyclable metal content in each DPF and DOC. Typically, we test 5 to 10 units of the same part number and calculate an average metal content based on those samples. Using this data, combined with current global metal market prices, we determine a fair and accurate purchase price for each unit. This process ensures transparency and consistency for all parts we recycle.

5. Our DPF and Catalytic Converter Recycling Process
When a catalytic converter or DPF system is recycled with us, it goes through a careful, multi-step process before becoming a valuable commodity.
Separation: The ceramic substrate is removed from the metal canister. The metal canister is recycled as scrap steel, while the ceramic material is collected for further processing.
Crushing & Blending: The ceramic and catalyst materials are crushed and combined with thousands of pounds of other DPF and catalyst material, then ground to a fine, consistent texture.
Testing: After a drying period, samples are taken and sent to our lab for testing to determine the total precious metal content.
Refining: The material is then refined to extract the platinum and palladium, which are subsequently sold on the global metals market at current market prices.
This process ensures that every DPF and catalytic converter is recycled responsibly, efficiently, and with maximum recovery of valuable metals.

6. Our Service Area and Shipping Options
We proudly serve customers across the entire United States. For smaller shipments, U.S. customers can take advantage of free UPS labels that can be easily printed from your online account. For larger quantities, we offer freight shipping or container service to make transporting multiple DPFs, DOCs, and catalysts simple and cost-effective. Whether you’re sending a single unit or a full pallet, we provide convenient options to keep your recycling process seamless.