Pallmann Plast-Agglomerator PFV-PC processes thermoplastics

Germany-based Pallmann says its compact Plast-Agglomerator PFV-PC is well-suited to processing thermoplastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and film, into granules that can be used as raw materials in additional processes.

The Plast-Agglomerator PFV-PC is able to process precut and precleaned thermoplastic materials with an initial moisture content of up to 10%, the company says. The feed material is cleaned in a plastic washing system and then directly introduced into the Agglomerator via a screw press or a centrifuge. The machine reduces the moisture content of the material to less than 10%, eliminating the need for a cost-intensive upstream thermal drying process, Pallmann says.

The performance of the agglomerator can be further augmented by an upstream thermal drying step, however.

The actual process of agglomerate production is performed below the material melting point by means of frictional heat, according to the company, thereby preserving the properties of the feed material to the greatest possible extent.

The Plast-Agglomerator PFV-PC can achieve throughput rates of more than 1,000 kilograms per hour, though its motor consumes less than 200 kilowatts of power, Pallmann adds.