What to consider when investing in a shredder

23rd May, 2019

Ensuring you have a machine that is reliable and efficient is important when investing in Waste Equipment.

Shredders are commonly used for material reduction in manufacturing and recycling, or for product destruction purposes. Each unit has different capacities and features. Because of these reasons, there are certain factors to consider when deciding which machine is the right choice for your business.

What material is being shredded?

The size, shape and type of material being shredded are one of the first things to consider. A wide variety of applications include but are not limited to Paper, Tyres, Wood, Aluminium Cans, E-Waste, Plastic Drums, Pallets, and Organic Waste. Large and bulky products including timber pallets and tyres may require larger feed openings to accommodate the size of the material being processed by the unit. Varied materials require different blades and configuration to suit individual applications. The correct selection of type and blade configuration is essential to the performance of the machine.

What results do you require?

When considering volume amounts – how much material will you be shredding daily? The shredding capacity will be dependent on the size of the shredder, blades, configurations and material used. As well as estimating the throughput of material in kg per hour, the next consideration is the type of finished product required. Sizing screens on some models are available in a range of sizes to suit individual requirements. Careful selection of a machine model is required when a specific output finish product size is required.

Operating conditions

What hopper feeding method will be used? There are various methods to load the hopper with material including hand loading, conveyor and forklift. To save labour cost when loading the machine, consider the option best suitable for the capacity of material being processed.

What discharging method will be used? There are 3 most common methods of discharge. Gravity, where there is simply a bin or some type of container placed under the outfeed of the shredder to catch the shredded product. Screw auger, discharge is most commonly used when the shredded product will be wet or semi liquid, when wanting to ensure no shredded product can be blown around, or when there is safety concern with open belt conveyors in a factory. Belt conveyors are very common and usually best when needing to convey shredded products to significant heights, or the consistent size of the shredded product can’t be guaranteed.

Space and Power

When discussing the size and location of the equipment, factors including safety and environmental hazards will need to be considered. Our team offer site visits to ensure the location of the shredder is suitable. Power will also be discussed, ensure you are aware of your power supply required to run the equipment.

How can we help?

With over 40 years of expertise in supplying high quality and reliable waste management equipment, Waste Initiatives’ shredders are developed to the highest standard using state of the art technology, ensuring you have a machine that is reliable and efficient. Our shredders are available in a wide range of models, for sizes and configurations and can be customised to suit your required throughout and sizing.

We can also assist with the development of supply infeed, discharge and plant solutions to integrate with your shredder.

Discuss your shredding needs with our waste equipment consultants today.

Contact us now on 1800 441 100