Using a combination of superheated steam pressure swings or compression/decompression cycles, frozen polymer is removed from contaminated components and assemblies. The process takes place in a controlled environment contained within a custom designed pressure vessel. The components are enclosed in a pressure vessel and the pressure is rapidly decreased by opening the blowdown valves. Depending on the polymer type, temperatures above 250oC will melt or soften the polymer and a degree of hydrolysis will occur. When at pressure, the steam will penetrate fissures in the polymer where it condenses as superheated water. On decompression, it boils, instantly cracking the polymer and carrying away broken particles along with the softened, degraded polymer fragments from the outer faces. The pressure swing cycle is then repeated at frequent intervals and controlled automatically with no detrimental effect on the integrity of filter media or metal structure. Waste Recycling machines are designed to meet the individual requirements of the customer.