Plastic sorting machine

Types of Plastic Sorting Machines

A plastic sorting machine is an essential part of recycling plants. There are various types of sorting machines available, and they are usually used in conjunction with others to attain a desired level of sorting, especially when it comes to different types of plastics.

• Optical Sorters: This kind of sorter usually employs near-infrared sensors to detect specific resin codes that are commonly used for certain plastics. Once the air is commanded by the sensors to separate the plastics, it ejects a burst of air in order to sort out materials that are not target containers. This type of sorter is widely used because it is very efficient and effective in sorting plastics.
• Trommel Screens: This type of sorting machine is a rotary drum that separates materials by size through open mesh sections on the drum. The trommel screen works by tumbling materials down the drum while they go through the smaller mesh sections. Once this happens, the smaller materials fall through the screen and are collected, while larger materials continue to the next process.
• Magnetic Separators: This kind of sorting machine aids in separating ferrous metals from non-ferrous ones such as aluminum and copper. Magnetic separators sort out ferrous metals, for instance, iron, steel, or any other material that contains iron. They accomplish this by using magnets to attract and pull out the ferrous metals from the rest of the material. Afterward, it is directed into a different container or location for further processing.
• Air Classifiers: This device is used to separate materials of different weights. It uses a combination of air streams and air flow to separate light materials from heavy ones. Classifiers are great at separating unwanted materials like paper and plastic bags from valuable ones such as minerals, rocks, and sand.

Specifications & maintenance of plastic sorting machines

Plastic sorting machines' specifications vary significantly depending on the type and model. Generally, the machines' sizes vary from a few hundred millimeters to a few meters, and their weights vary from a few kilograms to several tons.

Capacity is another specification that varies with the type and model of the machine. Some machines can sort only a few hundred kilograms of plastic per hour, while others can sort as much as several tons in an hour. The sorting accuracy depends on the type and model of the sorting machine. Some machines can achieve accuracy of up to 99%, while others have an accuracy of around 80 to 90 percent.

Other specifications of plastic sorting machines that vary depending on the type and model include the power consumption and the operating noise level.

Generally, all plastic sorting machines require routine maintenance. Regular cleaning is necessary. Manual sorting machines should be routinely wiped down to prevent plastic debris and dust from accumulating. On the other hand, the maintenance requirement for plastic sorting machines with automated functions may vary depending on the type and model. However, regular cleaning of the sensor and conveyor belts is critical to prevent clogging and ensure proper functioning.

It is also important to lubricate the moving parts of the plastic sorting machine regularly to prevent wear and tear and ensure smooth operation. Sorting machine manufacturers may provide guidelines on the specific type and frequency of lubrication required.

Some sorting machines have electronic components, and it is important to keep those parts dry and free of dust so they can function properly. Operators may need to develop procedures to keep the electronic parts of the machine clean and protected from moisture.

Plastic sorting machines may vibrate and make noise when in use. It is, therefore, important to routinely check all parts of the machine and ensure they are fastened tightly to minimize vibrations and noise levels.

Finally, operators need to routinely inspect the machines to ensure no parts are worn out or damaged. Any signs of damage or wear should be addressed immediately to prevent the machine from malfunctioning or sorting plastics inadequately.

Applications of plastic sorting machines

The wide applications of plastic recycling sorting machines are increasing. Because of the increasing plastic waste, more and more cities and companies are investing in plastic waste sorting machines to improve recycling rates and manage plastic waste efficiently.

Plastic sorting machines have different applications based on types. Here are some applications of various plastic sorting machines:

• Industrial waste management: Conveyor belts with cameras are mostly used in factories. Plastic sorting machines identify different plastic types and sorts them at high speeds. This prevents wrong plastic from going into recyclers and improves efficiency.
• Municipal recycling facilities: Optical sorting machines are common in centers that process household recyclables. They automatically recognize and separate various plastic containers from other materials. The technology increases the amount of recycled plastic while reducing manual labor.
• Landfill diversion: Many landfills around the world are using the air jet sorting machine. The device helps to separate recyclable plastic items before they enter the landfill. This reduces pollution and the amount of waste that goes into the land.
• E-waste recycling: Specialized mechanical sorters are used in facilities handling electronic waste. These machines separate plastic components from other materials like metals and textiles. The separation enhances the recovery of valuable resources.
• Fisheries or marine cleanup: Water-based sorting systems, like trommel drums, are used in organizations recovering marine debris. The systems separate harmful plastic waste, like ghost nets and other plastic items, from marine life. It also reduces ocean pollution.
• Textile recycling: Textile recycling companies use fiber plastic sorting machines to identify and separate plastic materials like polyester. This machines enhances the recovery of textile plastics for remanufacturing into new fibers or products.
• Construction and demolition sorting: Optical sorting machines are applied to waste streams from construction sites. The machines target plastic materials like pipes and sheeting. It reduces plastic contamination in other recovery streams.
• Agricultural recycling: Optical and conveyor belt sorters have been used in agricultural settings. They sort plastic items like containers, films, and silage nets. It ensures proper recycling of plastics used in farming.

How to choose plastic sorting machines

When buying plastic sorting machines, it is essential to look at the whole production line. Which other machines will work together with the sorting one? Delivery and installation are also important because perhaps the sorting part needs to arrive first so that other machines can be connected. Prioritize suppliers who have good delivery schedules and can install the sorting machine.

Next, consider the capacity and whether the entire production line, including the sorting part, can handle the expected levels of plastic waste. Will it cope now, and what about in 5-10 years? It's better to invest in machines that can deal with higher amounts so that business growth is not limited by equipment.

Have a detailed breakdown of sorting machine specifications to compare plastic sorting machines suppliers. Check for energy-efficient models because these will save costs daily. Pay attention to the end product's carbon footprint, as this will directly impact the overall plastic sorting machine's cost.

Even if a part of the production line has to be repaired or replaced, all plastic sorting machine parts will need to be inspected to ensure that nothing gets damaged during the service. Suppliers should be familiar with the workings of every part of the production line and be able to provide quick and thorough services.

Finally, make sure that after exploring all of these parameters, the suppliers can provide plastic sorting machines that align with specific business needs and help meet plastic sorting goals cost-effectively and efficiently.

FAQ

Q1: How does a plastic sorting machine work?

A1: A plastic sorting machine works by using different sorting techniques, such as color, infrared, air, weight, optical, and shape recognition. After being sorted, the plastics are then separated by vibratory feeders, chutes, or pick-and-place robots, and finally, they are conveyed to the different recycling lines.

Q2: What are the benefits of plastic sorting machines?

A2: The plastic sorting machine has a great impact on environmental protection and resource recovery. It reduces contamination in recycling streams, increases the purity of recycled materials, and improves the efficiency of recycling operations. The sorted plastics are then produced into high-quality recycled products, which results in a circular economy.

Q3: What types of plastics can a plastic sorting machine handle?

A3: Plastic sorting machines are designed to sort various types of plastics, including rigid plastics, film plastics, foamed plastics, and more. The specific capacity and effectiveness of a sorting machine may vary depending on its design and specifications.

Q4: What are the trends in the development of plastic sorting technology?

A4: The trend of plastic sorting technology is toward intelligent automation, which will improve the efficiency and accuracy of sorting. Additionally, the machines will be more integrated and connected with the whole recycling system. Environmental sustainability will still be the core focus, and the technologies will promote zero landfilling and circular economies.