PET is commonly used to make beverage bottles, reagent bottles, fibers, etc. It is one of the most common plastics and has a high use and recycling value. However, there are some challenges in recycling and washing plastic bottles. In this article, we will analyze the difficulties that can be encountered in the PET flakes washing process and how to solve them.
Multiple contaminants make washing difficult
Plastic bottles are commonly used as beverage bottles, oil bottles, chemical test bottles, etc. Therefore, the collected PET plastic bottles are mixed with a variety of contaminants such as oil and chemical reagents. In the face of these different types of contaminants, it is not possible to achieve thorough cleaning by a single cleaning process.
Action: We have developed a three-step PET flakes washing method. First, we utilize a friction washing machine to eliminate surface stains, such as dirt. Next, we employ a plastic sink float tank to separate contaminants based on their density. Finally, we use a hot washer washing machine to dissolve any remaining contaminants like oil， and glue at high temperatures, ensuring a thorough cleaning process.
Impurities affect the cleanliness of the pET Bottles
PVC labels attached to PET bottles are not easy to remove, which will lead to a thermal explanation of PET fragments in subsequent heating works; secondly, glue or other chemical residues will affect the cleaning effect.
Action: Using a de-labeling machine before washing can remove more than 98% of the label, reducing the difficulty of subsequent washing and improving the purity of recycled PET. In addition, a detergent can be added to the hot wash process to help clean the plastic bottle pieces
Blockages of the Plastic Washing Machines
Labels, sediment, and other impurities may clog the machine during plastic bottle washing, resulting in reduced cleaning efficiency or even downtime. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the installation of filters at each cleaning stage and the timely inspection and dredging of the discharge port of each plastic washing machine.
Measures: You can choose an anti-clogging design for your PET flakes washing machine. Our plastic bottle washing line is equipped with a trommel separator and other impurity filtration devices, which are efficient, convenient, and not easy to jam!
Higher cleaning costs
Washing PET bottles consumes a lot of water and energy, especially in the hot wash and rinse stages. Therefore, it is very important to choose energy-saving and environmentally friendly equipment.
Suggestion: It is recommended to choose a site with abundant water resources for washing and equipped with a water recycling system to reduce water consumption. On the other hand, before discharging the sewage, introduce a sewage treatment system to ensure that the pollutants meet the environmental requirements.
Conlusion
PET flakes washing is related to the purity and quality of recycled PET. In the face of these challenges, we need to choose the right equipment to help completely remove impurities and improve the quality of recycled PET. If you still have any questions about plastic bottle recycling cleaning, please contact us, we will plan the right plastic bottle washing solution for you!