Lindner system processes PET in North Carolina

Austria-based Lindner-Recyclingtech GmbH says three installed Lindner Micromat shredders are helping convert polyethylene terephthalate (PET) scrap into recycled-content fibers for textile applications at a facility in North Carolina.

The installation at the Yadkinville, North Carolina, plant operated by Unifi Inc. helps it convert the scrap, consisting mostly of postconsumer PET bottles, into its Repreve high-performance synthetic and recycled fibers product line.

“Three shredders from Lindner’s Micromat series work 24/7/365 to ensure that the plastics are optimally shredded for the downstream processes,” Lindner says.

According to Lindner, Unifi has converted some 35 billion plastic scrap bottles into Repreve fiber to date. “Unifi’s process ensures that plastics are returned to the consumer goods cycle as a valuable raw material and promotes a more circular and sustainable economy,” Lindner says.

As of this year, three Lindner Micromat 2000 models prepare plastic and textile scrap for its journey to extrusion, spinning and finally winding the fibers used by brands such as Williams-Sonoma Inc., Levi’s and Toms Shoes.

Scott Trivette, operations manager of the Repreve scrap-fed manufacturing plant in North Carolina, describes the relationship with Lindner as “a great partnership, which we require because of our 24/7/365 operating model.”

“A provider who can only be there for us between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. just doesn’t work for us," Trivette adds. "We need answers within hours, not days, and Lindner with its hub in Statesville, North Carolina, is always there for us.”

The Lindner Micromat series shredders are specially designed for the requirements of postcommercial and postconsumer plastics recycling, and the company says the Micromat models have strong, high-torque motors for powerful shredding and are designed and built to optimize uptime and streamline maintenance tasks.

“The lightning-fast safety clutch offers optimum machine protection and easy access to the rotor means that nonshreddables can be removed quickly and easily,” Trivette says.

“Lindner’s machines have enabled us to minimize downtime and maximize the throughput of the entire plant, which is essential with an average production of 1.5 million pounds [750 tons] of resin per week."