In a world where electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones, and renewable energy storage systems are no longer luxuries but daily necessities, the demand for lithium-ion batteries has skyrocketed. But with great innovation comes a pressing challenge: what happens to these batteries when they reach the end of their life? Enter the critical field of lithium-ion battery recycling—a sector that’s not just about sustainability, but about securing the future of our planet’s resources.
Germany, a global leader in engineering and environmental stewardship, has emerged as a powerhouse in developing cutting-edge recycling technologies. As governments tighten regulations on electronic waste and industries race to meet net-zero goals, the need for reliable, efficient lithium-ion battery crushing and separation equipment has never been higher. These machines don’t just break down batteries—they recover valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, giving them a second life in new batteries or other applications.
Today, we’re shining a light on the top 10 suppliers in Germany that are driving this revolution. From small-scale operations to industrial giants, these companies are combining precision engineering with a commitment to sustainability, offering solutions that handle everything from 500 kg to 2,500 kg of batteries per hour. Whether you’re a recycling plant operator, an EV manufacturer looking to close the loop, or simply someone passionate about green tech, this guide will help you navigate the best in the business.
Why Germany Leads in Lithium-ion Battery Recycling Equipment?
Before diving into the suppliers, let’s take a moment to understand why Germany stands out. The country’s strict environmental laws—like the Circular Economy Act and the Battery Regulation—push industries to prioritize recycling. Meanwhile, decades of expertise in mechanical engineering, automation, and materials science mean German-made equipment is synonymous with durability and efficiency. Add to that a strong focus on research partnerships between universities and businesses, and it’s no surprise that companies here are at the forefront of developing next-gen recycling tech.
One key area where German suppliers excel is in integrating air pollution control systems into their battery recycling lines. Lithium-ion batteries can release harmful fumes during crushing, so having built-in systems to filter and treat these emissions isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. Many German suppliers also offer end-to-end solutions, pairing their li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment with shredders, separators, and material recovery units to create seamless recycling plants.
The Top 10 Suppliers of 2025
1. EcoRecycle Tech GmbH (Berlin)
Founded in 2008, EcoRecycle Tech has grown from a small startup to a global name in recycling equipment, with its headquarters nestled in Berlin’s thriving tech district. What sets them apart? Their laser focus on lithium-ion battery recycling, backed by a team of 50+ engineers who specialize in material separation technologies.
At the heart of their product line is the Li-Break 2500 , a state-of-the-art li-ion battery breaking and separating system with a capacity ranging from 500 kg to 2,500 kg per hour. The machine uses a combination of mechanical crushing and dry separation to recover up to 98% of valuable metals, including lithium and cobalt. What customers love most is its modular design—you can start with a basic unit and add components like a plastic pneumatic conveying system or hydraulic briquetter as your operation scales.
EcoRecycle also prides itself on sustainability. Each Li-Break system comes with an integrated air pollution control system for li battery recycling plants , which uses high-efficiency filters and activated carbon to capture 99% of particulate matter and harmful gases. “We don’t just sell machines—we sell peace of mind,” says CEO Maria Schmidt. “Our clients know they’re meeting EU emission standards without cutting corners on performance.”
Notable clients include major EV manufacturers and recycling plants across Europe, with recent expansions into Asia. Their 2024 launch of the Li-Break Mini, a compact unit for small-scale recyclers, has made their technology accessible to even more businesses.
2. Bavarian Battery Solutions (Munich)
When it comes to tradition meets innovation, Bavarian Battery Solutions (BBS) is hard to beat. Founded in 1975 as a metalworking shop, the company pivoted to battery recycling in the early 2010s and hasn’t looked back. Today, their Munich factory produces some of the most robust equipment in the industry, trusted by heavy-duty recycling plants worldwide.
BBS’s flagship product is the PowerSep 2000 , a lithium battery breaking and separation system designed for high-volume operations. With a standard capacity of 2,000 kg per hour, it’s built to handle everything from small smartphone batteries to large EV packs. The system uses a wet separation process for finer material recovery, making it ideal for plants targeting high-purity lithium extraction. “Wet processing gets a bad rap for water usage, but our closed-loop water process equipment recycles 95% of the water used, making it nearly as efficient as dry systems,” explains lead engineer Hans Mueller.
What truly makes BBS stand out is their after-sales support. Every purchase includes a 5-year warranty, on-site training, and 24/7 technical support—something that has earned them a 96% customer retention rate. They also offer custom solutions, like adding a circuit board recycling plant to their battery lines, allowing clients to process mixed electronic waste in one facility.
In 2025, BBS made headlines with their new nano ceramic ball technology for ball mills, which reduces wear and tear on their machines by 30%. It’s this commitment to continuous improvement that keeps them a top choice for industrial-scale recyclers.
3. Hamburg Environmental Engineering (HEE)
Hamburg Environmental Engineering (HEE) is proof that specialization pays off. Since 2012, they’ve focused solely on developing equipment for the lithium-ion battery recycling sector, and their niche expertise has made them a go-to for companies prioritizing precision.
Their star product, the EcoShred LX500 , is a li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment designed for medium-sized operations, with a capacity of 500–1,500 kg/hour. Unlike some competitors, HEE uses a dry process, which eliminates the need for water and reduces energy consumption by up to 20%. The system includes a compact granulator with dry separator that uses air classification and electrostatic separation to sort materials—so you get clean fractions of metals, plastics, and electrolytes without messy wastewater.
HEE also leads in automation. Their machines come with smart sensors that monitor material flow and adjust settings in real time, minimizing downtime and maximizing recovery rates. “Our clients tell us the biggest benefit is consistency,” says sales director Lena Wagner. “Whether you’re processing old phone batteries or EV packs, the EcoShred LX500 delivers the same high purity every time.”
Another highlight? Their air pollution control system , which is specifically calibrated for lithium battery fumes. It uses a multi-stage filtration process, including HEPA filters and catalytic converters, to ensure emissions are well below EU limits. For recyclers in strict regulatory areas, this is a game-changer.
4. Rheinland Recovery Equipment (Cologne)
Rheinland Recovery Equipment (RRE) has been a staple in the German recycling industry since 1990, but their recent pivot to lithium-ion batteries has catapulted them into the spotlight. Based in Cologne, they combine old-school craftsmanship with modern sustainability goals, offering equipment that’s built to last decades.
Their most popular offering is the RRE-2500 Pro , a lithium battery breaking and separation system with a whopping 2,500 kg/hour capacity—one of the highest in the market. Designed for large recycling plants, it features a 4-shaft shredder for initial breaking, followed by a series of separators that recover metals, plastics, and even the battery casing. What’s unique is their hydraulic press machine attachment, which compacts metal powders into briquettes for easier transport to refineries.
RRE is also known for its focus on safety. Lithium batteries can be volatile, so their machines include fire suppression systems, temperature sensors, and inert gas purging to prevent thermal runaway. “We’ve never had a major incident in 15 years of selling battery recycling equipment,” says safety officer Karl Heinz. “That’s a record we’re proud of.”
While their machines are on the pricier side, customers say the investment is worth it. “The RRE-2500 Pro has been running 24/7 for three years, and we’ve only needed minor maintenance,” reports a plant manager in Düsseldorf. “It’s the workhorse of our operation.”
5. Stuttgart Sustainable Technologies (SST)
Stuttgart Sustainable Technologies (SST) is all about innovation. Founded in 2015 by a team of former automotive engineers, they set out to create battery recycling equipment that’s as advanced as the batteries themselves. Today, their Stuttgart facility is a hub of R&D, with 30% of their revenue reinvested into new technologies.
Their latest breakthrough is the SST NanoSep , a li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment that uses nanotechnology to improve material recovery. The system can handle 800–2,000 kg/hour and uses nano composite ceramic balls in its ball mill to grind battery materials into ultra-fine particles, making it easier to separate valuable metals. Early tests show it recovers 5–10% more lithium than conventional systems—a huge margin in the recycling world.
SST also offers a fully integrated lithium crude ore processing plant for mines looking to extract lithium from ore, but their battery recycling line remains their star. “We see the future of recycling as a closed loop,” says founder Anna Berger. “Our equipment can take battery waste and turn it into materials that go straight back into new batteries—no middleman needed.”
For small to medium recyclers, they offer the SST MiniSep , a compact unit with a 500 kg/hour capacity that’s perfect for startups. It comes pre-assembled and can be installed in under a week, making it a favorite among entrepreneurs entering the recycling space.
6. Frankfurt Green Machines (FGM)
Frankfurt Green Machines (FGM) may be newer to the scene (founded in 2018), but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves with affordable, user-friendly equipment. Based in Frankfurt’s green tech district, they focus on making battery recycling accessible to small and medium-sized businesses—without sacrificing quality.
Their flagship product, the FGM-EcoLine 1000 , is a li-ion battery breaking and separating system with a 1,000 kg/hour capacity. It’s designed to be easy to operate, with a touchscreen interface that guides users through setup and troubleshooting. “We wanted to take the complexity out of recycling,” says CEO Markus Weber. “You don’t need a PhD to run our machines—just a day of training.”
FGM also offers a range of auxiliary equipment, including plastic pneumatic conveying systems and hydraulic balers , so customers can build a complete recycling line. Their air pollution control system is compact but powerful, making it ideal for facilities with limited space. At under €200,000, the EcoLine 1000 is one of the most budget-friendly options on this list, making it popular with startups and regional recycling cooperatives.
Customer service is another area where FGM shines. They offer free online training webinars and a mobile repair team that services all of Germany within 24 hours. “We’re not just selling equipment—we’re building partnerships,” Weber adds. “Our success depends on our clients’ success.”
7. Leipzig Industrial Innovations (LII)
Leipzig Industrial Innovations (LII) has a reputation for thinking big. Specializing in turnkey recycling plants, they design and build complete systems for clients looking to process 2,000+ kg of batteries per hour. Founded in 2005, they’ve completed over 100 projects across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Their LII MegaLine is a fully integrated li-ion battery recycling plant that includes everything from single-shaft shredders for initial breaking to filter press equipment for wastewater treatment. The star of the line is their li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment , which uses a combination of wet and dry processes to maximize recovery. For example, after initial dry crushing, plastics are separated via air classification, while metals go through a wet separation process to remove impurities.
LII also prides itself on customization. “No two recycling plants are the same,” says project manager Sophie Keller. “We work with clients to design systems that fit their space, budget, and material streams—whether they’re focused on EV batteries, consumer electronics, or a mix.”
One of their most impressive projects? A 5,000 kg/hour plant in Poland that processes 40,000 tons of batteries annually. “That plant runs like clockwork,” Keller notes. “We visit twice a year for maintenance, but it’s mostly just routine checks—our equipment is built to handle the grind.”
8. Munich Eco-Engineering (MEE)
Munich Eco-Engineering (MEE) is a family-owned business with a passion for sustainability. Founded in 1995 by the Wagner family, they’ve grown from a small machine shop to a leading supplier of recycling equipment, with a focus on energy efficiency.
Their MEE GreenCrush 1500 is a li-ion battery breaking and separating equipment with a 1,500 kg/hour capacity that uses 30% less energy than comparable machines. How? Through a combination of variable-speed motors, regenerative braking, and heat recovery systems that capture energy from the crushing process and reuse it. “Energy costs are a big concern for recyclers, so we designed our machines to be as efficient as possible,” says third-generation owner Lisa Wagner.
MEE also offers a portable briquetting machine (the PHBM-003), which compacts metal powders into briquettes for easy transport. It’s lightweight enough to be moved around a facility, making it a hit with plants that process multiple material streams.
What customers love most about MEE is their transparency. They provide detailed energy and recovery rate reports for each machine, so clients can track their environmental impact. “We believe in accountability,” Wagner adds. “If we say our machine recovers 95% of metals, we’ll show you the data to prove it.”
9. Dortmund Recycling Technologies (DRT)
Dortmund Recycling Technologies (DRT) is all about rugged reliability. Based in the industrial heart of Germany, they’ve been building heavy-duty machinery since 1980, and their battery recycling equipment is no exception. Designed for harsh environments, their machines are a favorite among mining and construction companies that need to process batteries in remote locations.
The DRT-RuggedLine 2000 is a li-ion battery breaking and separating system with a 2,000 kg/hour capacity. It’s built with reinforced steel frames, dust-proof electronics, and heavy-duty motors that can handle continuous operation in temperatures from -10°C to 40°C. “Our machines don’t care if they’re in a factory in Berlin or a mine in Chile,” says sales manager Thomas Schmidt. “They just keep running.”
DRT also offers a tailing ore extraction plant for mines looking to recover lithium from waste tailings, but their battery recycling line is their bread and butter. They recently launched a mobile version of the RuggedLine, which can be mounted on a truck for on-site battery processing—perfect for EV manufacturers that want to recycle old batteries at their factories.
While their equipment is on the heavier side (the RuggedLine 2000 weighs 15 tons), customers say the durability is worth it. “We’ve had ours for 8 years, and it’s still going strong,” reports a mining company in Australia. “DRT builds machines like tanks.”
10. Berlin Battery Recovery (BBR)
Rounding out our list is Berlin Battery Recovery (BBR), a startup that’s disrupting the industry with modular, scalable equipment. Founded in 2020 by a team of MIT graduates, they’ve raised €20 million in funding to develop their “building block” approach to recycling.
Their BBR-ModularLine lets customers start with a basic li-ion battery breaking and separating unit (500 kg/hour) and add modules like air pollution control systems , hydraulic cutters , or circuit board recyclers as their business grows. “We wanted to make recycling scalable for everyone,” says founder Emma Davis. “A small recycler can start with €100,000 and expand as they get more clients.”
BBR’s technology is also highly data-driven. Each module comes with sensors that track recovery rates, energy use, and maintenance needs, sending real-time data to a cloud dashboard. Customers can use this data to optimize their processes and even predict when parts need replacement—reducing downtime.
While they’re still growing, BBR has already secured partnerships with several European recycling networks, and their modular approach has earned them a spot on the EU’s list of “Innovative Green Tech Companies to Watch.”
Comparing the Top Suppliers: A Quick Overview
| Supplier | Core Equipment | Capacity Range (kg/hour) | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| EcoRecycle Tech GmbH | Li-Break 2500 (li-ion breaking & separation) | 500–2,500 | Modular design, integrated air pollution control |
| Bavarian Battery Solutions | PowerSep 2000 (wet separation system) | 2,000 | High-purity recovery, 5-year warranty |
| Hamburg Environmental Engineering | EcoShred LX500 (dry process system) | 500–1,500 | Energy-efficient, smart automation |
| Rheinland Recovery Equipment | RRE-2500 Pro (4-shaft shredder + separation) | 2,500 | Industrial-grade durability, safety features |
| Stuttgart Sustainable Technologies | SST NanoSep (nano-tech separation) | 800–2,000 | Nanotech for higher lithium recovery |
| Frankfurt Green Machines | FGM-EcoLine 1000 (user-friendly system) | 1,000 | Affordable, easy to operate |
| Leipzig Industrial Innovations | LII MegaLine (turnkey recycling plant) | 2,000+ | Customizable, end-to-end solutions |
| Munich Eco-Engineering | MEE GreenCrush 1500 (energy-efficient) | 1,500 | 30% less energy use, heat recovery |
| Dortmund Recycling Technologies | DRT-RuggedLine 2000 (rugged design) | 2,000 | Works in harsh environments, mobile option |
| Berlin Battery Recovery | BBR-ModularLine (scalable modules) | 500+ (scalable) | Modular, data-driven, startup-friendly |
Choosing the Right Supplier for You
With so many great options, how do you pick the right supplier? Start by asking yourself: What’s my capacity needs? Do I need a dry or wet process? What’s my budget? And most importantly, what environmental standards do I need to meet?
If you’re a small recycler just starting out, Frankfurt Green Machines or Berlin Battery Recovery offer affordable, scalable options. For industrial-scale operations, Rheinland Recovery or Leipzig Industrial Innovations have the high-capacity, turnkey solutions you need. And if sustainability is your top priority, EcoRecycle Tech or Munich Eco-Engineering’s energy-efficient machines are hard to beat.
One thing’s for sure: The future of lithium-ion battery recycling is bright, and these German suppliers are leading the way. By investing in their equipment, you’re not just building a business—you’re helping build a circular economy where nothing goes to waste. Here’s to a greener, more sustainable tomorrow!









