THE PROCESS

OF PLASTIC RECYCLING

At B+B, we build machines used in the process of plastic recycling plants. Our machines process various kinds of plastics, including PET, HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC, PS, etc. As every kind of plastic has their specific properties and the output of the recyclable new ground materials need to meet different demands, the recycling requirements may vary. To illustrate the steps of the plastic recycling process, we will describe the recycling of plastic bottles (PET). Due to the feed-quality requirements, this type of recycling needs to meet stringent demands.

EXAMPLE WASHING LINE FOR PLASTIC RECYCLING

Shredded waste material enters the washing line as contaminated PET flakes and is first conveyed through a friction washer for cold water cleansing of light contaminants such as liquids and paper. After the first wash, the next step is drying the material stream and separating further contaminants, for example, dust and sand. This is done in a mechanical dryer. For highly contaminated material, e.g. to remove adhesives from labels, and to meet food grade standards, another washing stage may be required. In a continuous PET hot washer, the flakes are soaked in a mixture of hot water washing solution, followed by a friction washer where the material is rinsed. In a sink-float tank the PET flakes separation from the lighter plastics such as PE/PP from bottle caps will take place. Lastly, the mechanical dryer will dewater the PET flakes while the polyolefins are dried by a thermal dryer.

Process

HIGH-TECH PLASTIC RECYCLING INSTALLATIONS

Apart from the processes mentioned above, together with other Heilig group companies B+B engineers and builds full plastic recycling installations that include:

B+B DESIGNS RECYCLING MACHINES FOR THE FOLLOWING INDUSTRIES

  • Container recycling HDPE
  • Food grade HDPE (FDA approved)
  • Oil container recycling
  • Film recycling PE/PP
  • Bottle-to-bottle recycling PET
  • Non-food Flakes PET
  • Flowerpot recycling PP/PE
  • Waste-to-fuel recycling
  • Mixed plastics recycling
  • Paper and cardboard recycling
  • Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)
  • Car shredders

If your industry or process step is not mentioned, that does not mean we cannot help you. Please contact us with your questions so that we can steer you in the right direction.