Computer tapes are slowly disappearing among data storage options. Disc drives, hard drives, and flash drives have taken over storage mediums. This leads to a higher number of tape disposals across the world. But most people should know that tapes are essential and they might contain confidential records. For this reason, IT disposal companies offer a safe way to eradicate tapes thru the use of a tape destruction machine.

Throughout the years, a tape destruction machine serves as great assistance for e-waste companies. They are considered one of the go-to devices in disposal facilities since there is a continuous daily discard of tapes everywhere. This is understandable because tapes are slower and are sequential-access media. They often quickly reach their maximum usage and then become obsolete afterward. That is why most companies, as well as personal users, cannot help but throw them away.

But keep in mind that proper tape disposal must be observed at all times. This will not only be beneficial for you but also for the environment. Since the process of secure data destruction will guarantee the elimination of previous data to prevent any privacy risks. At the same time, these types of tape destruction machines decrease the impact of e-waste disposal on the planet.

How Does a Tape Destruction Machine Works

There is a wide variety of tapes that you can probably dispose of. The most renowned tapes today are magnetic tapes since they are still around and relevant among users. Tape media vary depending on storage capacity and formats. Given this instance, a tape destruction machine operates based on the type of tape and how high the desired level of efficiency is. 

Although the goals of using such machines are the same – destroy tapes until the data are unusable. IT disposal companies use them to make all previously-stored content unavailable to anyone. This is done for the avoidance of any data theft or digital threats in the future. Thus, users with tape storage are advised to undergo this particular process. This especially applies to businesses with tapes full of staff and customers’ records; not doing so can lead to privacy breaches or law violations. 

These machines are used with appropriate regulatory compliance standards. Any tape destruction machine is subject to the evaluation and approval of several bodies. This is to make sure that the people involved with the procedure are protected no matter what. Whether it is protecting a client’s data privacy or the employees’ health, safety measures must be followed.

Tape Destruction Machines

People mostly believe that a tape destruction machine only pertains to the “Destroyers.” But destroyers only represent one type of tape destruction machine. There are other kinds to choose from, such as degaussers, shredders, and disintegrators. They come in different forms and sizes. Each machine has a unique set of features that can fit your needs.

Choosing the right kind of machine to dispose of your tapes will indicate how successful data destruction is. Take a look at the quick guide below to evaluate further which is the best pick for you.

Destroyers and Crushers

These machines share the same method of destroying tapes. Both of them produce a powerful force to damage the storage media. The kind of pressure differs between the models of the machines. Few deliver a hydraulic crushing force; while some use a combination of physical and electrical forces to sanitize the tapes. Most destroyers are efficient and versatile. There are models like PDS-75 HDD that can destroy tapes and hard drives in 8 seconds or less. Moreover, these machines do not only destroy tapes but are also capable of destroying CDS/DVDs, credit cards, and identification badges.

Degaussers

If you are searching for a tape destruction machine that will guarantee the most secure data destruction, degaussers are the answer. It is the most effective way to get rid of the data from any storage, tape included. But note that these machines are specifically use for magnetic tapes only. Since this equipment is explicitly for eliminating and reducing the tapes’ magnetic charges. It produces a strong magnetic field that when tapes are exposed, the data becomes unreadable. The actual tape remains intact, but the contents are already irretrievable.

Degaussing is perfect for those users who wish to permanently erase every bit of information present in a media tape. It also does not make much mess because it does not impact the outer part of the tapes. In this way, the degaussed tapes will be easier to transport to other locations. Degaussers themselves are mostly compact and portable. There is even a variation called degaussing wands that are so small; it only weighs 4 ounces.

Most degaussers can destroy data as fast as destroyers and crushers. Some models are capable of being faster crushing, like the T 1.5 Degausser. This specific particular model has a cycle time of only 5 seconds. When it comes to in-demand models, another degaussing machine is the Proton T-4 HDD. It is a degausser that uses a unique “reverse polarity.” Most degaussers have either a negative or a positive pulse. But this model boasts of both pulses, and it is entirely automatic.

Shredders

As its name implies, these machines’ function is to shred tape storage into smaller fragments. Shredders are fine to use not only for tape media but for other e-wastes as well. These include hard drives, hard disks, and cellphones. This machine has three classifications according to the volume of e-wastes it can handle. There are low volume models that shred back-up tapes, 1” thick hard drives, and DVDs.

On the other hand, mid-volume shredders can destroy the same type of storage, but it offers a bigger space for the e-wastes. Lastly, high volume models are the ones that perform the heavy-duty shredding. It can shred reel-to-reel tapes, circuit boards, or even laptops.

Many shredders can be stationary or placed in trucks for on-site data destruction. It is advisable to use this tape destruction machine after the tapes have already been thru a degausser. In this order, shredding will serve as a redundant measure to ensure that not even a bit of data is missed. So, random data leakage is prevented, and your worries are at bay. 

Disintegrators

Disintegrator is a tape destruction machine that is ideal in tight and confined operating areas. It is for the reason that most of these machines offer a soundproof feature that produces fewer disturbances. Most models are designed with an open rotor, which increases the airflow during operation. Therefore, the overall heat is reduced, and there is easier access for service work.



These machines are built with a rotary knife mill or a blade cutting system. These are best for bulk data destruction. In regards to the type of e-wastes, disintegrators handle all lighter and simple storage media. The likes of essential tapes, thumb drives, and audiotapes are common to proceed in such machines.

Importance of a Tape Destruction Machine

First of all, a tape destruction machine is a vital part of data destruction. If they were not invented, IT disposal companies would be in chaos. Imagine how many employees an e-waste company must hire to destroy the massive volume of the generated e-wastes today. And to think that most e-wastes are made out of hard and dangerous materials, the procedure will be impossible.

These kinds of machines are providing convenience and efficiency to every business in the e-waste management market. They allow vendors to meet different clients’ needs with different e-wastes, while consciously considering the effects on the environment.

But the most important thing that a tape destruction machine does is keeping your privacy and reputation unharmed. This significance is often emphasized because it is genuinely life-saving. Especially nowadays, the majority of people’s lives are revolving around technology. The information that is available in the abundance of gadgets and devices almost makes up a person. That very reason is enough to justify how these machines are essential for everyone.

Abtron is Here to Assist You!

Some companies and even individuals are still on the hunt for the best tape destruction machine in the market. Search no more because Abtron Computer Services got the finest ones in their facilities, and they also offer professional assistance. Abtron has a selection of equipment that is reasonably priced and high caliber.  They have all of the data destruction machines that are mentioned above. So whatever e-wastes you wish to dispose of will be destroyed based on your desire.  

The company has been in the e-waste management market for more than two decades now. You can rest assured that the IT disposal experts do not only use the top-performing machines. But also, they provide outstanding performance based on countless experiences. Check out their website to know more!