MACHINE LINE AND RECYCLING PROCESS
When plastic is used and becomes waste, a process known as recycling is applied to return it to a usable product. The PET flakes recycling process is usually done by manufacturers of plastic products. These companies need to have the right skill and equipment in order to perform this somewhat complex process. Any waste or scrap plastic has to undergo the following essential stages in order to be considered usable in the manufacturing chain.
Step By Step Process
Step 1: Sorting/ Separation
Like any other form of waste, plastic needs to be sorted after collection. This is the first step that is undertaken in any recycling plant. There are many different types of plastics and they must be separated into different types before processing. Mixing different types of plastics such as clear and colored PET plastic can compromise the quality of the finished product. Sorting needs to be thoroughly done in order to maintain top quality recycled plastic.
Step 2: Cleaning
The next crucial stage in European recycling involves cleaning of the waste plastic. Cleaning is done to get rid of any paper labels on the waste plastic or adhesives and impurities that may undermine the quality of recycled plastic.
Step 3: Shredding
Once all the labels and impurities are removed from waste plastic, the next crucial step involves ripping them into pieces. Shredding is done by a variety of tools and equipment that is able to breakdown the waste plastic into small pellets. These small pallets of plastic are later on packaged for testing before they are used in the manufacturing chain.
Step 4: Testing
Testing is a very critical process in the recycling of plastic. Testing is basically done to ensure the product is according to certain industry specifications. The recycling company can decide to use recycled plastic on its own or mix it up with virgin plastic in order to improve its quality. Sometimes the plastic is further recycled to enhance quality.
Step 5: Extruding
The final stage involves melting the plastic pellets which have been tested and approved. This is a process that involves a lot of energy consumption and must be done using specific equipment. Once this stage is complete, the recycled plastic can be used to manufacture other products. The processes mentioned above are just the basic ones that plastics undergo during recycling. However, there are sub-processes in each stage where several activities are carried out to improve the quality of plastic. Plastic recycling is important as it helps us take care of our planet.