Size reduction offers processors the ability to enhance recycling efficiency. Some opt for low-speed meter-fed granulators that tackle sprues, runners and small parts. Others choose high-speed closed-loop systems to feed scrap into machine hopper and shredders.
On today’s shop floor, recycling programs usually focus on turning plastic scrap and parts that are out of spec into a size and form that is close to the quality of the virgin material used by the plastics processor.
For increased savings and environmental protection, the regrind that results will share the needed material characteristics that will enable it to be mixed with the original material to make more parts.
Size-reduction services can include pulverizing, blending, grinding, metal and contamination removal, repackaging, classifying, fines removal, and certified destruction.
The shredding and granulating of plastic can be done in injection molding, blow molding and rotomolding shops, as well as film, sheet and other extrusion. The process also can vary from the range of materials being used, including PE, PP, PVC, PS, PU and PET.
Shredders and granulators tend to come at the very front of a recycling line. So they represent an operator’s first chance to alter the state of material.
Today, size-reduction specialists are updating designs to ensure machinery capabilities remain aligned with the material showing up on recycling lines.
For more information on size reduction, visit these links on granulators, shredders, safety and maintenance.