New machine size scores big on manpower savings, energy efficiency

‟With this line we have again increased our capacity range for polyolefin recycling,” states Paul Niedl, head of sales for Starlinger recycling technology. ‟The Recostar dynamic 215 was purpose-built to customer specifications regarding output and minimised operator involvement. The high degree of automation makes it possible to operate even a line of this size with the same personnel as the smaller lines, working efficiently with minimum energy consumption.”

With its output range of 2,200 to 2,600 kg/h and power requirement of 0.2 to 0.35 kWh/kg, the Recostar dynamic 215 is one of the most energy-efficient lines on the market. To achieve this, Starlinger recycling technology developed the “rECO” concept for optimum energy use: Only the most energy-efficient motors are used, energy recuperation systems are integrated into various process steps, and the extruder barrel is heated with infrared emitters. In addition, the Dynamic Automation Package (DAP) developed by Starlinger keeps the line working at the optimum operating point, thereby maintaining not only constant production of consistent quality pellets, higher output and greater flexibility in material processing, but also reducing energy consumption. Together with the “rECO” concept, this realises energy savings in excess of 10 %.

The first Recostar dynamic 215 recycling line with integrated C-VAC module will be supplied to a customer in Spain, where it will be used for reprocessing post-consumer EPS packaging waste. In test runs with this material, a throughput rate of over 2,800 kg/h was achieved.

The Recostar dynamic recycling lines are capable of processing a wide range of plastics and are especially suitable for moist, hygroscopic or highly contaminated input materials. Depending on the line configuration, plastic waste with up to 25 % moisture can be recycled. By integrating the optional C-VAC high-capacity degassing module into the line, even heavily printed or heavily soiled input materials such as post-consumer plastic waste or agricultural films can be reprocessed into valuable secondary material.