TECHNOLOGY | SHREDDERS
Above: LRK 1400 shredder from Untha
lowers the noise level in decibels in already loud facilities. Consequently, it is easier for workers to communicate verbally. The quieter operation of an electric unit also facilitates compliance with US OSHA’s permissible occupational noise exposure limit. “Processors that recycle oversized product scrap have expressed a preference for large chamber, electric shredders that are quieter, eliminate the potential for hydraulic fluid leaks, and cost a bit less,” says Neuens. Although electric shredders provide slightly less
torque than hydraulic models, those designed to handle large, recyclable, plastics scrap can still deliver more than 100,000 ft. lbs. (135,600 Nm) of torque per knife. With chamber sizes from 48 × 48 to 48 × 72 inches (1.22×1.22 to 1.22×1.83 m), the electric shredder provides 100-800 HP (75-597 kW). “Applying over 100,000 ft. lbs. of torque per knife in a large chamber is more than enough to efficiently shred sizeable or voluminous plastic scrap, including defective product,” says Neuens. BCA Industries designs the electric shredder to
many of the same specifications as its hydraulic models to maximize durability and longevity in the field. “We designed the electric shredder to be
extremely durable even if the intended use is plastics, in the event the manufacturer pushes the envelope of what feed materials are placed into it in the future,” says Neuens. For example, the electric shredder is designed with 24-inch (61 cm) AR500 base alloy knives with a hard-face weld, the same as the hydraulic alterna- tive. The knives can be selected in a wide variety of sizes and specifications, which allows customisation to suit the plastics processor’s specific application. Several features are designed to increase the electric shredder’s useable life and reduce mainte- nance. Instead of 7-inch (17.8 cm) shafts, 8-inch (20.3 cm) chromoly shafts are utilised – the same as the hydraulic unit. In place of the old HEX shaft design or a double key round shaft, the unit also uses an eight key design where the knife rides on disposable keys, not directly on the shaft. With the keys taking any abuse instead of the shaft, the design eliminates shaft washout and simplifies knife changes. The electric unit is designed with a double labyrinth style drop zone and outboard bearings, which eliminates any direct path to the shaft bearings. It also allows compressed material a path to exit the shredder, eliminating the costs associated with bearing and shaft replacement. Large chamber electric shredders are also easy-to-use for plant operators. The latest offer touch screen programma- ble functions and diagnostics and are PLC con- trolled with auto-reverse and overload protection. “Manufacturers of oversized plastics product that needs to be recycled finally have an electric-pow- ered option that makes shredding onsite much easi- er, quieter, cleaner and cost-effective,” says Neuens. “Although hydraulic power has been the default choice, large chamber, electric-powered units are an attractive alternative for plastics processors.” Untha reports that plastics shredding continues to be a major area of interest in the recycling industry and that it is constantly looking for improvements
second-life solutions waste
IMAGE: UNTHA
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