Compact Screening Solution for 24/7 Plastic Recycling

The Challenge

A plastic recycling facility operating 24/7 was experiencing recurring problems with its existing vibrating screens while processing materials including LDPE, PP, and PE.

The existing equipment suffered from abnormal vibration, structural issues, and component failures. One screen was eventually bypassed, allowing higher levels of sand and plastic contaminants to reach the downstream purification system.

Limited installation space created an additional challenge, particularly where the available height restricted the use of larger screening equipment.

The application required a reliable screening solution capable of continuous operation while fitting within the existing plant layout.

The Solution

Based on the actual process conditions, a more compact vibrating screen was selected – two sizes smaller than the existing unit.

Instead of simply replacing the screen with equipment of a similar diameter, the application was evaluated based on the actual operating requirements, including material throughput, water flow, filtration requirements, installation space, and maintenance access.

A multi-frequency vibrating screen was selected to provide the required screening performance within a significantly more compact footprint.

The smaller configuration also provided improved integration into the existing process and easier access for inspection, cleaning, and mesh replacement.

Equipment

Multi-frequency Vibrating Screen

Designed for continuous industrial screening applications, the system provides efficient separation while maintaining a compact installation footprint and practical maintenance access.

The Results

The properly sized screening solution helped:

• Restore effective screening within the production process
• Reduce contaminants reaching downstream purification
• Improve operational stability
• Reduce vibration-related mechanical issues
• Simplify inspection, cleaning, and mesh replacement
• Accommodate the existing plant’s limited installation space

Most importantly, the application demonstrated that a larger screen is not necessarily a better screen. Correct equipment sizing based on actual process conditions can provide a more reliable and efficient solution.

Engineering Approach

At TIERMAX, together with our technology partner MLT Cuccolini, screening solutions are evaluated based on the complete application rather than equipment size alone.

Material characteristics, throughput, separation requirements, available space, upstream and downstream equipment, maintenance access, and operating conditions are considered together to select the appropriate screening technology.

This approach helps ensure that the screening equipment is not simply installed into the process, but properly integrated to support reliable long-term operation.