Back in 2023, Lindner and the EREMA Group founded BLUEONE Solutions. This collaboration aimed to assess the plastics value chain for the future fine-tuning of individual process steps from collection to recycling. The experience of EREMA has now been combined with the knowledge from Lindner Washtech.
Data transfer ensures more efficient recycling processes
Process control is an important aspect of plastics recycling, which is why standardizing the process control system was what the two companies first focused on.
"Together, we have developed a platform that allows data to be exchanged between the extruder and the washing system," says Manfred Hackl, CEO of the EREMA Group at IFAT in Munich. "This enables us to analyze the data more precisely so that effective improvement measures can be deduced."
Key parameters are taken into account and monitored via a digital interface. It is possible to use information relating to the current throughput of the EREMA pre-conditioning unit to optimize the washing process as soon as possible so that it can compensate for fluctuations in capacity and achieve a significant increase in output.
Efficiency due to smart energy management
"To ensure sustainable recycling, it is necessary to find the right process for each application and to make sure that the individual process steps are perfectly coordinated," emphasizes Michael Lackner, managing director of Lindner. "We use the latent heat generated during the extrusion process as an energy source for the washing and drying process. This enables our customers to sustainably reduce their energy costs and carbon emissions."
Synergies along the value chain
"The key question is how we can improve the end product and increase the overall efficiency of the recycling process at the same time," agree Manfred Hackl and Michael Lackner.
This will only work if companies work together along the value chain. The companies can point to several examples where together they have improved recycling processes and made it possible to move away from downcycling.
"An example of this is the recycling loop of HDPE starting material, which is processed into high-quality, food-safe rHDPE pellets using our two technologies," says Lackner.
Everything considered, the joint venture offers companies from the waste and recycling industry an additional special service and improves the end-to-end process.
"We want to encourage our customers to come to us with their feed material so that we can discuss the options that are open to them. With the combined expertise of Lindner Washtech and EREMA, we can find the optimum solution for every scenario," says Hackl.
