What are Airbags and how are They Disposed Of
Airbags have become an essential element in car safety, protecting millions of lives worldwide. This article explores in detail the history, operation, different types, and costs associated with airbags. In the late 1960s, the first airbag testing began in the United States. These safety devices quickly became crucial for passenger protection in case of accidents. Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to install them in vehicles in 1987. Since then, airbags have saved millions of lives and have been legally required in Europe on all newly registered cars since 2002.
What are Airbags and how Do They Work
Airbags are designed to provide passive safety and reduce the risk of injury in case of road accidents. Here are the different types of airbags and their location within the car. Front airbags are installed in all latest-generation cars. There are two: one on the driver’s side mounted on the steering wheel and another for the passenger, positioned in the upper part of the front dashboard. Then there are side airbags located on the back of the front seats and, in some configurations, also for passengers seated in the rear seats. These airbags consist of two compact chambers: the first protects the pelvis and the second protects the chest in case of collision.
Knee or External Airbags
There are also knee airbags located under the steering wheel for the driver and under the glove compartment dashboard for the adjacent passenger, and curtain airbags, which are installed in the front or rear of the central cabin. They are found in the armrest of the front seats or in the central part of the rear seats. External or pedestrian airbags are one of the latest innovations introduced to the market. They inflate along the entire length of the car in case of collision, protecting pedestrians and cyclists. The airbag sack, flat and made of nylon or other sturdy synthetic material, contains inert gases. These gases are triggered by the system in case of collision.
How Airbags Work
In the event of impact, sensors installed in the control unit or in the front and side of the car detect the sudden decrease in speed. This signal reaches the electronic control unit, which activates the ignition command for one or more airbags. The detonator triggers the substance contained in the explosive capsule, which rapidly develops enough nitrogen to inflate the airbag in 30/50 milliseconds, thus protecting passengers’ head and torso. Subsequently, the airbag quickly deflates through holes in the back. After activation in case of collision, it needs to be replaced. The replacement cost varies depending on the car’s make and model. Front airbags cost between 600 and 1,000 euros, while other types can cost up to 900 euros.
How to Dispose of this Waste
The Ministry of Environment has clarified the procedures to follow for the removal and disposal of airbags and pretensioners following recall campaigns. This update aims to improve safety and environmental protection by properly managing these devices as “pyrotechnic waste”. In this guide, we will explore the new regulations, disposal procedures, and the service offered by Greenkar Innovation. Recall campaigns are operations carried out by car manufacturers to correct manufacturing defects that could compromise vehicle safety.
What Type of Waste are Airbags
In case of removal of devices such as airbags or pretensioners, the Ministry of Environment has established that these must be treated as hazardous waste and cannot be reused. The removed device must be immediately handled as pyrotechnic waste. This includes specific disposal procedures that ensure safety and environmental protection. Failure to comply with these regulations exposes manufacturers to legal and environmental risks.
Airbag Disposal Procedure
Greenkar Innovation’s service includes:
- Collection and disposal: the device is collected and disposed of in full compliance with current regulations.
- Traceability: every phase of the process, from removal to collection and final disposal, is tracked.
- Certification: each disposed device receives certification attesting to the correct disposal process.
- Dedicated website: workshops and manufacturers can manage and monitor the process through a dedicated portal.
- Supervision: Greenkar supervises the entire process, providing assistance and support at any time.
Why Choose Greenkar Innovation
The service offered by Greenkar Innovation not only ensures compliance with regulations but also provides a practical and traceable solution for workshops and manufacturers. The dedicated web portal allows for autonomous management and constant monitoring, reducing risks and improving efficiency.
(image source: Freepik)