PET Recycling

PET recycling is one of the most important processes within the plastics recycling sector, both for its environmental impact and its high industrial value. This material is found in bottles, food containers, and packaging, and its proper recovery allows for the transformation of waste into a high-quality, reusable raw material.

Our machinery covers all phases of the process: crushing, washing, separating, drying, and transporting the material. This allows companies to convert used bottles and containers into recycled PET ready for reuse in new products.

Recycling PET reduces the volume of plastic waste and decreases the consumption of natural resources and energy, offering a cost-effective, sustainable solution that is aligned with current market demands.

What is the PET recycling and its benefits?

PET recycling is the industrial process by which polyethylene terephthalate waste is transformed into a new, reusable material, retaining most of its original properties. This process allows a widely used waste product to be reintroduced into the production chain, reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy model.

In the recycling of this material, the waste undergoes several stages: sorting, shredding, washing, separation, and drying. Thanks to these steps, it is possible to obtain clean and homogeneous recycled PET, suitable for use in new applications such as packaging, textile fibers, sheets, or industrial parts.

Benefits of PET recycling

Reduction of environmental impact

Recycling PET reduces the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or the natural environment. In this way, it contributes to more responsible waste management.

Resource and energy saving

The production of recycled PET consumes much less energy than the manufacture of virgin material, reducing the use of raw materials and the emissions associated with its production process.

High value of recycled material

PET is one of the most in-demand plastics in the recycling market, making its recovery a profitable opportunity for recycling plants.

Application versatility

Recycled PET can be reused in multiple sectors: containers, textiles, packaging, technical films and other industrial products.

Machinery solutions for the PET recycling

Pre-shredders - Shredders

They are essential in the initial phase of the process, especially when working with compacted bottles, big bags, or bulky material. Furthermore, they allow for a uniform feed to the shredders, improving the stability of the entire recycling line.

Shredders

These machines reduce the material to a suitable size for subsequent washing and granulation. They are designed to work continuously with plastic bottles and containers. Efficient shredding improves washing effectiveness and the quality of the recycled material.

Mills - Granulators

It allows for obtaining PET flakes with a uniform particle size, making it an essential condition for industrial reuse. The result is clean and homogeneous recycled PET, ready for further processing or sale.

Washing areas

This is one of the most important stages of the process. Its function is to remove labels and adhesives, organic matter, dirt, and contaminants. We manufacture washing systems adapted to the level of contamination of the material, guaranteeing a thorough cleaning without damaging the polymer.

Centrifuges

The centrifuge reduces the moisture content of the material after washing, improving the quality of the recycled PET. Its key benefits include: fast and efficient drying, reduced energy consumption in subsequent stages, and improved stability of the final product.

Cyclones

This peripheral device allows for the separation of light particles and unwanted residues using airflow. Its main functions include dust removal, improved purity of recycled PET, and optimization of the drying and conveying process.

Overbands

Magnetic overbanding is used to remove metallic contaminants from PET, such as staples or small ferrous elements. Its advantages include: protection of machinery, increased material purity, and improved process safety.

Conveyor belts

The industrial conveyor belt ensures the continuous transport of material between the different stages of the process. Custom-made, they offer: abrasion-resistant belts, adjustable speed, and seamless integration with the rest of the equipment.

Chain tapes

These machines are designed for transporting bulky or heavy materials, especially in the initial stages of the process. They are characterized by: high structural robustness, the ability to handle large volumes, and their reliability under demanding industrial conditions.

Types of polyethylene and its recycling

Within plastic recycling, polyethylene is one of the most widely used and recyclable materials, both in industrial applications and in packaging. Understanding the different types of polyethylene and their characteristics is key to applying the appropriate recycling process and obtaining a high-quality material.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a rigid, durable plastic widely used in packaging, drums, pipes, boxes, and industrial parts. Its high durability makes it a highly valued material in the recycling market. Characteristics of HDPE recycling:

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is a flexible and lightweight material commonly found in bags, plastic film, packaging, and industrial wrapping. Due to its low density and tendency to tangle, recycling it requires specialized machinery. It is characterized by:

Stable crushing and granulation.
Effective washing to remove residues and contaminants.
Obtaining clean and homogeneous flakes.

This type of material is reused in the manufacture of new containers, tubes, profiles, street furniture and other technical products.

Use of shredders and shredders adapted to flexible materials.
Efficient washing and drying systems.
Pneumatic transport and precise separation of impurities.

Recycled LDPE is subsequently used in the manufacture of bags, recycled film, technical sheets and other flexible products.