There were several key factors taken into account while pioneering the design of the new recoSTAR dynamic line recently unveiled by Starlinger recycling technology.
Starlinger
The recoSTAR dynamic recycling line from Starlinger.
The high degree of automation completes the design elements of a very energy-efficient production platform that ensures reliable and constant operation, higher outputs, and extraordinary flexibility in regard to types of input materials.
Highly automated operation and continuous process adjustments are now possible using the Dynamic Automation Package. This allows to increase the machine uptime and productivity of the recoSTAR dynamic while reducing the overall energy consumption by up to 10 per cent.
The recycling line automatically starts up and shuts down via the SmartStart feature, and when the material feeding is stopped, the SMART feeder switches into stand-by mode without requiring operator interaction. The automatic temperature controller allows the processing of input materials with different moisture levels and varying bulk density, all the while maintaining consistent product quality.
Elfriede Hell, General Manager of Starlinger Recycling Technology, said: "This makes it possible to process, for example, post-consumer regrind or fluff that has varying moisture levels. Under unfavourable storage conditions the moisture content in the input material can easily increase from two per cent to six per cent. The recycling line automatically adapts to the requirements of the input material and can even process material with a moisture content of up to ten per cent with additional equipment. The speed, and consequently the friction, in the SMART feeder are increased until the required material temperature is reached. This saves the operator a lot of process adjustments and cuts down machine downtime."
In addition, the increased capacity of the large SMART feeder results in a much larger operating window, while the self-regulating material feeder allows the extruder to process a wider range of input materials, giving recyclers greater flexibility in the marketplace. Additionally, up-cycling is realised by compounding during the recycling process. Additives can be fed directly into the extruder through a side feeding unit while the output feedback loop ensures total process control.
Increased energy efficiency: rECO
Increasing awareness of energy consumption and CO2 emissions has a strong impact on modern machine engineering and construction. In the 'green industry' of recycling, a small carbon footprint and reduced energy consumption not only present an attractive marketing tool, they translate into direct cost benefits for those recycling plastics.
The rECO stamp indicates the innovative machine design that improves the energy efficiency of Starlinger recycling lines. Energy savings are achieved using the new extruder drive concept as well as the use of motors classified IE3 or NEMA Premium (highest efficiency standard according to the US National Electrical Manufacturers Association), as well as the use of infrared heaters on the extruder barrel. The use of the radiant heat of the extruder for material processing helps to recover additional energy.
