What are Airbags and how are They Disposed Of
Airbags have become an essential element for automobile safety, protecting millions of lives worldwide. This article explores in detail the history, functioning, different types, and costs associated with airbags. In the late 1960s, the first tests for airbag experimentation began in the United States. These safety devices quickly became a crucial element for passenger protection in the event of an accident. The first manufacturer to install them in cars was Mercedes-Benz in 1987. Since then, airbags have saved millions of lives and have been legally mandatory in Europe for all newly registered cars since 2002.
What are Airbags and how Do They Work
Airbags are designed to ensure passive safety and reduce the risk of injury in the event of a road accident. Here are the different types of airbags and their positions 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 the other for the passenger, positioned at the top of the front dashboard. Then there are side airbags located at 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 the chest in the event of a collision.
Knee or External Airbags
There are also knee airbags located under the steering wheel for the driver and under the glove compartment for the passenger next to them, and curtain airbags, which are installed at the front or rear of the central cabin. They are found in the armrest of the front seats or the central part of the rear seats. External or pedestrian airbags, on the other hand, are one of the latest innovations introduced to the market. They inflate in the event of a collision along the entire length of the car, protecting pedestrians and cyclists. The airbag bag, flat and made of nylon or other robust synthetic material, contains inert gases. These gases are activated by the system in the event of a collision.
How Airbags Work
In the event of an impact, sensors installed in the control unit or at the front and side of the car detect the sudden drop 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 a sufficient amount of nitrogen to inflate the airbag in 30/50 milliseconds, thus protecting the passengers’ heads and torsos. Subsequently, the airbag deflates quickly through the holes in the rear part. After activation, in the event of a collision, it must be replaced. The replacement cost varies depending on the make and model of the car. Front airbags cost between 600 and 1000 euros, while other types can cost up to 900 euros.
How to Dispose of these Wastes
The Ministry of the 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 correctly managing these devices as “pyrotechnic waste.” In this guide, we will explore the new regulations, disposal procedures, and the service offered by Greenkar Automotive. Recall campaigns are operations carried out by automobile manufacturers to correct manufacturing defects that could compromise vehicle safety.
What Type of Waste are Airbags
In the event of the removal of devices such as airbags or pretensioners, the Ministry of the Environment has established that these must be treated as hazardous waste and cannot be reused. The removed device must be immediately managed 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
The service provided by Greenkar Innovation 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 a 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 Rely on Greenkar Innovation
The service proposed by Greenkar Automotive not only ensures compliance with regulations but also offers 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)