REP-TEC’s Twin Ram Balers set new standards in efficiency and performance for plastic recycling companies
With the increasing demand for recycled plastics, the need for reliable and powerful baling technology becomes paramount. For MRF operators, high-density bales keep transport costs to a minimum and a high degree of purity, coupled with high throughputs increases value. REP-TEC, who design and manufacture fully automatic balers in Co. Tyrone, N. Ireland are helping operators achieve this and a lot more. Their high performance, twin ram balers are setting the standard for efficiency and performance in this industry, as evidenced in recent installations at Berry Circular Polymers and IPL Global.
High Density and Consistent Bales for Berry Global
A twin ram baler is ideal for processing hard plastics and expansive materials such as PET. The compaction is done against a solid fixed wall within the baling chamber, resulting in high compaction and heavier bales. The final bales are also consistent and uniform which helps reduce transport costs.
This was evidenced at Berry Circular Polymers, where REP-TEC installed their twin ram baler. Berry, a global plastics packaging manufacturer, required a fast and efficient way to bale mixed PET and HDPE plastics at one of their UK recycling facilities. The REP-TEC Samson model installed has an 80T compaction force and is powered by a very efficient 37kW hydraulic power unit. The bales produced from this machine at Berry are of a high density, making them easier to handle and transport, resulting in cost savings. The large capacity also allows Berry to process more materials in a shorter amount of time.
Switching Between Various Types of Plastics
The types of plastics that require baling are diverse, ranging from plastic film—clear, coloured, and mixed—to hard plastics such as HDPE and PET. Switching between these during the baling process and ensuring no contamination is essential. This was of upmost importance to IPL Global, who recently installed a new REP-TEC twin ram baler at their site outside Leeds. IPL, a leading packaging provider, required a replacement for their ageing baler and they wanted to employ a baler which was capable of handling increased throughput and mixed plastics with no cross-contamination. With IPL baling various types of plastics such as PET, HDPE and residual waste, the REP-TEC twin ram baler was the ideal solution for them as one material stream can be baled off and ejected before switching to the next. The machine clears out the baler chamber each time so cross-contamination is avoided. The fast cycle times, on the REP-TEC twin ram baler, also ensured IPL were able to increase their throughputs.
Enhanced Baling with Wire Ties and Smart Systems
It can be tricky to keep plastic bales together. REP-TEC's twin ram balers are equipped with wire tie options that ensure secure and stable bales. The ability to double tie the ends and customise the number of ties used provides flexibility, maintaining the integrity of bales during stacking and export. The tying mechanism tightly knots the wire, reducing the likelihood of breakage and minimising wire usage.
Additionally, REP-TEC’s smart system calculates the precise amount of material needed for each bale, ensuring consistent bale sizes every time. This consistency is crucial for efficient transport and handling, streamlining the logistics of recycling operations.
Reliability and Service is Vital
For MRF operators, a dependable baler is crucial - downtime is not an option. REP-TEC recognise this, and they prioritise reliability in their balers. They collaborate closely with customers from the beginning, customising the baler to meet specific needs, and continue to provide support long after installation. REP-TEC ensures operators receive comprehensive training across multiple shifts and promptly addresses any initial issues, going above and beyond to prevent operational downtime.
James, Engineering Supervisor at IPL Global back this up, "I have never experienced service like it from any manufacturer. REP-TEC's dedication to resolving issues without disruption is unparalleled and proves that their service and support surpass any in the market."
Darryl at Berry Global also agrees, “The REP-TEC team was very professional and efficient during the installation process…They were in and out of the site quickly, leaving the place clean and tidy. They have provided us with all the necessary support and guidance, and I would highly recommend a REP-TEC baler to anyone looking for reliable and high-quality baling equipment."
In an industry where efficiency, reliability, and performance are paramount, REP-TEC’s twin ram balers have set a new benchmark. The increasing demand for recycled plastics underscores the need for advanced baling technology, and REP-TEC has proven its ability to meet and exceed these requirements. With installations at Berry Circular Polymers and IPL Global, their balers demonstrate the capability to produce high-density, consistent bales, reducing transport costs and increasing throughput.
By continually advancing their technology and maintaining a strong focus on customer satisfaction, REP-TEC is helping MRF operators achieve higher standards in plastic recycling, contributing to a more sustainable future.