The recycling solution for contaminated plastic: from waste to new material
Contaminated plastic is the rule rather than the exception in recycling . It makes processing more difficult, leading to inadequate quality of the recycled pellets, high cleaning costs, reduced production time (due to plant downtime), and lower proceeds for the recyclate.
But there is a solution to this problem: a recycling system that has been specially designed for contaminated material - robust, efficient, and ready for immediate use.
This article shows how the recycling of contaminated plastics can be turned into a stable and economical process with the right technology. In response, the ReadyMac HD is presented.
Why are contaminants in plastic a recycling problem?
In theory, plastic recycling sounds simple: collect, process, recycle. In practice, things are often different. Particularly when the plastic is heavily contaminated. Post-consumer plastics with impurities quickly push conventional systems to their limits.
The problem is that these contaminants not only impair the quality of the recycled pellets but also increase wear, maintenance costs, and the need for spare parts. In many cases, additional cleaning steps are necessary. These are often time-consuming and cost intensive.
What are the requirements for recycling heavily contaminated plastics?
To recycle contaminated plastic economically, a standard solution with a well-thought-out concept is required rather than a special solution. What is needed is a recycling technology that can handle a high proportion of contaminants without losing quality or process stability.
The key requirements are
- Efficient filtration that reliably removes even the smallest impurities, such as, aluminum, paper, or rubber.
- Stable processes, even with fluctuating material quality.
- Low material loss to work more economically.
- Automated filtration systems that minimize downtimes.
What makes the ReadyMac HD the right solution for recycling contaminated plastics?
The ReadyMac HD has been specifically developed for recycling contaminated plastics. It combines robust technology with proven EREMA components and is therefore optimally prepared for challenging input material.
The central element: the EREMA laser filter. This high-performance filter system reliably removes even stubborn contaminants such as
- dust,
- paper,
- wood,
- aluminum,
- copper
- rubber/silicones etc.
And all this with an impurity content of up to 5 %. The continuous discharge of contaminants ensures stable operation without frequent interruptions.
What's more, the ReadyMac HD works at constant pressure, with high filtration efficiency and minimal melt loss. This is a decisive advantage for the economic efficiency of the recycling process. The system is designed to significantly reduce operating costs and unplanned downtimes.
In short, the ReadyMac HD is not a compromise solution. It is made for recycling contaminated plastic waste.
What materials and shapes can be processed with the ReadyMac HD?
The ReadyMac HD is a true all-rounder when it comes to processing a wide variety of plastic fractions. It is compatible with films, flakes, and regrind - regardless of whether the plastic is pre-cleaned or contaminated.
The system recycles a wide range of polymer types:
The throughput rate is up to 500 kg/h - depending on the material properties, moisture, printing and degree of contamination. Process stability remains high even with challenging input material.
Particularly interesting for companies with fluctuating material qualities: The system is designed for high moisture levels and heavy printing.
With this flexibility, the ReadyMac HD can easily be integrated into existing material flows. Regardless of whether it is in-house waste or post-consumer plastics.
What does the output look like and how marketable is the recycled pellet?
Every recycling plant aims to produce high-quality recycled pellets. This recyclate can be processed further, even if the plastic is heavily contaminated. This is precisely where the ReadyMac HD comes into its own.
Thanks to the continuously operating laser filter and the precise melt guidance, a homogeneous, clean recycled pellet with high purity is produced. Even the finest impurities are reliably removed.
The recycled pellets are suitable for industrial applications as well as for more demanding products with defined specifications. This is a decisive factor for many recycling companies: this marketable quality opens up new sales opportunities and increases the profitability of the entire process.
