Supporting Modern Auto Recycling
November 25, 2025
How TAS Recycling Uses Liebherr Machinery with the Powerhand VRS200
End-of-life auto recycling is changing fast. As demand grows for cleaner material recovery and more sustainable processes, large recycling operators are investing in better machinery, safer working environments and high-precision attachments that improve recovery rates.
A recent article by Liebherr highlighted how TAS Recycling, a multi-state operation in the United States, is modernising its recycling workflow. Among the equipment featured on site is the Powerhand VRS200, mounted to a Liebherr crawler excavator and used daily for high-volume dismantling work.
This setup gives TAS the power and precision needed to recover valuable metals cleanly while reducing what ends up in landfill. It is a strong example of how the right combination of machine and attachment can support safer, faster and more efficient auto recycling.
Cleaner, Safer and More Efficient Material Recovery
TAS Recycling operates across Tennessee, Florida and North Carolina, processing large numbers of end-of-life vehicles every week. Their focus is simple: recover as much valuable material as possible while reducing environmental impact.
To support this, TAS uses Liebherr crawler excavators for heavy dismantling, paired with equipment designed for accuracy and control. This is where the Powerhand VRS200 comes in.
Mounted to the Liebherr excavator, the VRS200 allows operators to:
• Separate metals cleanly for copper, aluminium, steel and battery recovery
• Remove materials with accuracy, improving downstream sorting efficiency
• Work safely around sharp, irregular scrap with consistent gripping force
• Maintain output across long operating days and reduce reliance on manual labour
• Reduce the volume of material entering landfill
TAS’s setup reflects a wider trend in modern recycling: investing in equipment that improves output, supports environmental targets and offers safer working conditions for operators.
The Role of the Powerhand VRS200
The VRS200 is the largest model in the Powerhand VRS range and is built specifically for high-volume recycling, vehicle dismantling and heavy pick-and-select work. It combines:
• high gripping force
• slimline visibility
• narrow, precise jaws
• robust build quality
For operators handling end-of-life vehicles every day, these features reduce dismantling time, improve material separation and support safer, more controlled handling.
When paired with the stability of the Liebherr crawler excavator, the combination becomes a highly capable dismantling setup suitable for modern recycling yards.
Why Precision Attachments Matter in Sustainable Recycling
Clean separation is essential for recycling profitability. The more accurately materials are separated at the dismantling stage, the more value can be extracted from each vehicle.
This is why more operations are turning towards specialised pick-and-select attachments. Unlike general-purpose grapples, the VRS range is engineered specifically for dismantling tasks:
• Cleaner separation leads to higher recovery value
• Improved accuracy reduces contamination
• Precision handling makes sorting easier
• Targeted removal of valuable components increases overall profitability
For operations like TAS Recycling, these factors have a direct impact on efficiency, safety and environmental performance.
The Full Powerhand VRS Range
While the Liebherr article highlights the VRS200, the Powerhand VRS family includes a complete range of grapples and dismantling systems developed for different excavator sizes and operational requirements. Every site is different, and the VRS system is built to scale with machine size, application and throughput.
VRS80
For 6 to 10 tonne excavators.
A compact, precise tool for dismantling motors, electrical units, white goods and end-of-life consumer products. Ideal for recycling and waste facilities needing a smaller, agile attachment.
VRS140
For 14 to 18 tonne excavators.
A versatile mid-range option for recycling and dismantling work where operators need a balance of power, visibility and manoeuvrability.
VRS180
For 16 to 25 tonne excavators.
Built for heavier dismantling tasks across scrapyards and auto recycling operations, offering more strength and control for tougher applications.
VRS200
For 18 to 25 tonne excavators.
The largest and most powerful in the range, designed for high-volume dismantling, heavy scrap handling and environments where clean material recovery and durability are critical.
VRS Drive In
A quick-install dismantling system that allows the VRS clamp legs to be connected to an excavator or materials handler in minutes, with no welding or brackets required. It provides the full capability of a fixed VRS setup while keeping downtime low.
Powerhand’s Commitment to the Auto Recycling Industry
The Liebherr article reinforces what we see globally: recycling operations are becoming more advanced and more focused on clean material recovery and sustainability.
Powerhand will continue to support this progress with systems designed for real-world performance, from the VRS80 through to the VRS Drive In system.
To learn more about the VRS system or discuss the right setup for your operation, get in touch with the team.