A&A Recycling boosts timber processing with Ecotec shredder

A&A Recycling Services, a U.K.-based specialist in waste wood recycling, processes more than 240,000 tonnes of waste wood annually across its operations, supplying material to the panel board and biomass energy sectors. Recently, it increased processing capacity at its Meriden Quarry operation in Coventry by adding an Ecotec TBG 530T high-speed shredder, distributed by Blue Machinery.

The site operates from a fully concreted yard, with large windrows of material prepared for processing, and handles mixed A- and C-grade waste timber, including lightly contaminated material with no pre-pick carried out.

Rising demand for timber processing

With throughput requirements continuing to increase, A&A Recycling required an additional machine to work alongside an existing CBI 6400 horizontal grinder, enabling an additional 40-60 tonnes per hour to be processed while reducing reliance on the primary shredder.

Following an assessment of the application and site conditions, Blue Machinery proposed the Ecotec TBG 530T fitted with 80-millimetre (3.15-inch) top and bottom screens as a solution that could meet both output and material demands while keeping running costs low.

"The brief was to introduce a machine that could integrate smoothly into an established process and deliver consistent output at a competitive cost per tonne," says Davie Sutherland, technical sales manager at Blue Machinery. "The TBG 530T has proven well-matched to the material at Meriden Quarry, delivering high throughput with low fuel consumption and supporting a strong return on investment."

Engineered for mixed timber streams

Powered by a 493-hp (368-kW) Scania DC13 engine, the track-mounted TBG 530T is designed for medium-scale producers requiring consistent end-product quality. Its open-fronted feeder supports efficient loading, while an electronically controlled feed system — comprising heavy-duty drag chains and an aggressive feed wheel with lift and downward assist — provides a steady flow of material through the machine.

At its core is a swinging hammer rotor measuring 1,100 millimetres (43.3 inches) in diameter and 1,490 millimetres (58.7 inches) in width, operating at 1,000 rpm with 30 up-swinging hammers. A choice of hammer designs and interchangeable screens allows the configuration to be tailored to different product requirements. A screen kickback system provides additional protection from unshreddable material entering the chamber, helping to minimize damage and downtime.

Turning wood waste into products

Material processed by the TBG 530T at the Meriden Quarry site is separated into three fractions to maximize recovery and value. Fine material up to 10 millimetres is directed to agricultural applications, material between 10 and 60 millimetres is supplied to chipboard production, and material above 60 millimetres is used in biomass energy plants.

The combination of high throughput and efficient fuel consumption has enabled A&A Recycling to reduce cost per tonne, improving overall operational efficiency while maintaining consistent output quality. The machine's modular discharge conveyor offers a discharge height of up to 4.6 metres (15.1 feet) and can be lowered for inspection and maintenance. Optional overband magnet technology is available for the removal of ferrous contamination.

"The TBG 530T has been engineered for consistent performance in demanding waste wood applications, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, service access and uptime," says Conor Hegarty, business line director for Ecotec. "For operators processing mixed timber streams, these factors are critical in controlling operating costs and delivering long-term value."

Keeping timber moving through the yard

Ease of maintenance was also a key consideration, with the TBG 530T providing simplified access to all major service points. Electric and hydraulic screen raise-and-lower functions, along with interlocked chamber access, support efficient inspection and maintenance.

"For us, sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand," says Paul Hayward, operations manager at A&A Recycling Services. "The TBG 530T supports our ability to recover and process waste wood efficiently, helping to divert material from landfill and direct it into productive end uses such as panel board manufacture and biomass energy. Reliable equipment that supports these outcomes is central to how we operate." 

This article originally appeared in the July/August 2026 issue of Recycling Product News.