Recycling

The recycling industry plays a pivotal role in modern society, helping to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and minimise the environmental impact of human activities.

The Environmental Services Association (ESA) has published a market research report stating the sector employs approximately 147,000 people across the country and handles an estimated 70.7 million tonnes of waste each year. This includes 30.4 million tonnes of household waste collected by local authorities and 40.4 million tonnes of commercial and industrial waste.

https://resource.co/article/uk-recycling-and-waste-treatment-sector-worth-24bn

The report also details the financial investment in waste services, with local authorities in England spending £5.8 billion on waste management in 2021/22 alone.

One of the key components in modern recycling processes is the geared motor, a powerful and efficient device that enables the smooth operation of recycling equipment.

The significance of geared motors in recycling processes

Geared motors are indispensable in the recycling industry. From the initial sorting and separation of materials to the final processing and packaging stages, geared motors are present in every aspect of the recycling process.

These devices are designed to withstand the demanding conditions of recycling facilities, including high torque requirements, frequent start-stop cycles, and harsh environmental conditions, necessitating the use of specialised geared motors that can withstand these challenges.

They enable the automation of many tasks, reducing manual labor and increasing overall efficiency. As the sector continues to strive for sustainability, having already reduced its emissions by 46% since 1990 and aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, the importance of efficient and effective recycling processes has never been more pressing.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the uses of geared motors in the recycling industry, discussing their benefits, selection criteria, and the solutions offered by Betech, a leading supplier of industrial electrical motors and gearboxes.

Geared Motors in Recycling Equipment

Conveyors and Sorting Systems

Conveyors are the backbone of any recycling facility, responsible for transporting materials between different processing stages. Geared motors power these systems, providing the necessary torque and speed to handle diverse materials, from lightweight plastics to heavier metals.

Their precision allows for accurate sorting, ensuring that materials are correctly categorised for further processing or recycling.

Geared motors in conveyor systems provide:

  • Consistent and adjustable speed control for optimal material flow
  • High starting torque to overcome inertia, especially in fully loaded conditions
  • Efficient operation under varying load conditions

In sorting systems, geared motors enable:

  • Precise control of vibrating screens for size-based separation
  • Accurate positioning of optical sorting equipment
  • Controlled movement of magnetic and eddy current separators for metal extraction
Shredders and Grinders

Shredders and grinders are integral to the preprocessing stage in recycling facilities, where massive quantities of waste materials are reduced to smaller, more manageable sizes. Geared motors power these heavy-duty machines, allowing them to function continuously and handle large volumes of material.

The motors employed in such applications must withstand the constant vibrations and high torque demands of continuous operation.

Some shredders and grinders use hydraulic systems for their main drive, while geared motors are utilised for secondary functions such as turning, tilting, or rotating key components.

The geared motors used in these machines are designed for ruggedness and can run at high speeds, making quick work of tough materials like plastic, paper, glass, and metals.

Geared motors in shredders and grinders offer:

  • High torque capabilities to handle tough materials like plastics, metals, and wood
  • Variable speed control to accommodate different material types and desired output sizes
  • Robust construction to withstand the high stresses and vibrations inherent in size reduction processes
Balers and Compactors

Balers and compactors reduce the volume of recyclable materials, making storage and transportation more efficient. In these machines, geared motors provide the force needed to compress materials tightly.

The motors must be robust enough to withstand repeated cycles and heavy loads, ensuring longevity and reliability in demanding recycling environments.

Geared motors in these machines provide:

  • High force generation for compressing materials
  • Precise control over the compaction cycle
  • Reliable performance under repetitive, high-load conditions
Washing and Separation Equipment

Washing and separation equipment in recycling facilities removes contaminants from waste materials, preparing them for further processing. Geared motors power these washing and separation systems, ensuring the equipment operates at precise speeds and torque levels to efficiently separate waste materials.

Washing and separation systems often use belt conveyors, which are driven by geared motors. This integration allows for the continuous movement and washing of materials as they are separated.

The motors must be designed to resist corrosion and maintain their performance even in conditions that may cause standard motors to fail.

Geared motors in this equipment enable:

  • Controlled agitation in washing drums for thorough cleaning of materials
  • Precise speed control in centrifuges for separating materials based on density
  • Reliable operation in wet and potentially corrosive environments

In each of these applications, geared motors from Betech are designed to meet the specific requirements of the recycling industry, offering durability, efficiency, and precise control. Our range of motors can be customised to suit the unique needs of different recycling processes, ensuring optimal performance and longevity in challenging environments.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Geared Motor for Recycling Applications

 Choosing the right geared motor for your recycling equipment is important for ensuring optimal performance, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. Here are the key factors to consider:

Accurate torque and speed calculations are an important part of selecting the right geared motor. Consider:

  • Material type and weight to determine required torque
  • Factor in the weight of conveyor belt materials
  • Desired processing speed and acceleration rates
  • Consider potential overload conditions and loaded starts

In order for the geared motor to have a full service life and avoid premature failure, ensure the right service factor is specified.  Think about:

  • Running time – hours per day, days per week
  • Number of stop/starts per hour
  • Consider whether shock loading will be involved
  • A service factor is subjective – just ensuring its above 1.0 may not be correct

Recycling environments can be harsh, with exposure to moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures. When selecting a geared motor, consider:

  • IP ratings to ensure the motor can withstand environmental conditions
  • Materials and coatings resistant to corrosion and abrasion
  • Rain cowls for motors fitted in a vertical position
  • Protect oil seals from dust and other contaminants entering the gearbox

 

Like most geared motor applications, getting the mounting position right can be critical. Consider:

  • Utilising the gearbox manufacturers standard position, normally horizontal, will provide the best performance
  • Specify the mounting positon on order, to ensure correct lubrication and breather position
  • Avoid non-standard mounting positions such as angles, which could present challenges to keeping the gearbox correctly lubricated
  • Ensure the overall weight of the motor and gearbox is considered when deciding how to mount to the application

 

Recycling applications can require precise control over motor speed and torque to optimise material processing. Consider:

  • If planning to use on an inverter and operate at slower speeds, consider whether forced cooling is necessary
  • A wide speed range should be factored in when selecting the gearbox ratio
  • For more sophisticated speed control and/or positioning, consider encoder feedback
  • Applications such as inclined conveyors may require a brake motor or gearbox with back-stop, to prevent unwanted reverse rotation
Betech - Experts in Industrial Drives

Betech is an established nationwide distributor of electric motors, gearboxes and geared motors, variable speed drives, automation and electromagnetic clutches and brakes. We are a vital partner of leading manufacturers who have a reputation for providing exceptional quality products trusted on the most demanding applications.

We focus on offering the best possible service to our customers. We provide the fast enquiry response, technical support and advice, huge stock availability and reliable logistics that our resale and OEM customers demand in order to collectively meet and exceed the expectations of end users.

At Betech, our team of experts can guide you through this selection process, ensuring you find the optimal geared motor solution for your specific recycling equipment needs.