PLASTICS SIZE REDUCTION

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What is Size Reduction?

The overall goal of most plastic recycling programs is to turn scrap and non-conforming parts back into a similar size and form to the virgin material being processed. This “regrind” will often have the proper material characteristics, including strength or optical qualities, to be blended with the original resin. This can then be reused to make more parts. It’s both cost-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Plastics processors use size reduction equipment for a variety of reasons, but generally alongside injection molding, blow molding, extrusion and thermoforming processes. It’s also used for general recycling purposes.

Plastic regrind can be blended with original resin to enable cost effective and environmentally friendly facility practices. 

Plastic Resizing Equipment

In this knowledge center, we'll detail two common types of resizing equipment

Cumberland Granulators for plastic size reduction
Source: Cumberland

Granulators

Granulators are very effective at reprocessing sprues, runners and small to medium size parts. They typically generate particles from 1/8” to 3/4” in size, though most granulate runs between ¼” and 3/8”. Granulators are most commonly found near injection molding machines but are also used with other processes such extrusion, blow molding and thermoforming. The three common types of granulators are: beside-the press, central and special units designed primarily for thermoforming. But there are many more granulator technology options which customize a unit to fit any broad or specific application.

Cumberland Shredders for Plastic Size Reduction

Shredders

Shredders are for large or very dense parts. They can rip up large items into smaller pieces about 2” to 4” in size and are effective on a wide range of materials. Shredders reduce the time and effort required to cut up large parts in preparation for granulating. Previously this had been done by hand. Like granulators, shredders also have several technology options that will suit them best for any given application.

Get Started in Plastics Size Reduction

Your guide to the equipment, processes, and applications of plastic size reduction.

Size Reduction Fundamentals

Size Reduction Fundamentals

Discover the fundamentals of converting plastic scrap back into a size that matches the new or virgin material you are processing.

Granulator Types

Granulator Types

Explore this comprehensive guide to plastics granulator types to find the perfect solution for your granulation needs in plastic size reduction.

Granulator Options

Granulator Options

Eight key component, including rotors, knives, and screens, to consider when selecting a granulator that best fits your operation.

Calculating ROI

Calculating ROI

Learn how to calculate granulator ROI effectively, from real world examples. Discover key insights and factors to optimize your plastic size reduction process.

Granulator FAQs

Granulator FAQs

Technical questions and answers to troubleshoot your plastic size reduction process using granulators.

Shredder Options

Shredder Options

Before purchasing a shredder for your facility, it is important to consider key components including rotors, cutters, infeed hoppers and drive types, along with the material to be cut.

Material Applications

Material Applications

This page discusses the types of applications appropriate for granulating and shredding plastics scrap.

Common Processes

Common Processes

Granulators can be used with a wide range of materials, scrap forms and products. Here are a few typical examples.

Service & Safety

Service & Safety

The size reduction of plastics is a hazardous operation in the plastics industry. Proper knowledge of equipment maintenance is crucial to keeping everyone safe on the job.