Size Reduction Fundamentals
For plastics processors, the primary goal of size reduction is to convert plastic scrap back into a size that matches the new or virgin material being processed. Reprocessed scrap typically comes in the form of sprues, runners, edge trim, or nonconforming parts. By reclaiming the material, the resin reprocesses efficiently and with the proper characteristics, such as strength and optical qualities.
Common processes that lend themselves to reuse of recycled resins include injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, blow molding and general recycling.
Common Materials include:
- Acrylics
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
- Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
- Nylon
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK)
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE)
- Polylactic acid (PLA)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polystyrene (PS)
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC/vinyl)