Sorting Plants for Dry Mixed Recyclables

Although disposal of the material essentially takes place in a similar way, the material properties vary from country to country. The fact that STADLER was involved in developing the first plants of this type from the outset is extremely useful in this regard. STADLER is familiar with each material in the individual countries, and knows which plant model will produce the best overall results for the customer in each individual case.

STADLER sorting plant for dry recyclables

STADLER experience

“STADLER commissioned the first plant of this type back in 2008. Since then, more than 25 such STADLER sorting plants have gone into operation, with installations in France, England and the USA in particular.”

Sorting of dry mixed recyclables with STADLER

Material properties

Nowadays, separation of the organic fraction from recyclable materials takes place in many countries around the world. However, the dry mixed recyclables contain greatly differing components depending on the country.
For STADLER, this means it is necessary to devise the best possible overall plant concept for each type of material.
The average composition exhibits an approximate density of 80 kg/m³. Since paper and cardboard have by far the highest density in this mixture, the overall density varies depending on the proportion of these two recyclables.
Because the proportion of films and plastic trays in the total volume is constantly increasing, both the composition and total density will change in the future.

Example process description

After the plastic bags have been mechanically opened, the material is divided into the previously defined grain size and shape using a trommel screen and ballistic separator. Sorting of the individual materials is carried out with the aid of special optical systems. If required, the fraction purity can be optimised by manual sorting in a sorting cabin. The sorted fractions are pressed into bales for volume reduction and improved handling during transport.