Fume and Particulate Control System for Plastic Recycling & Pelletizing Lines - LEFILTER Solution

Product Introduction:

LEFILTER's system for plastic recycling tackles both smoke and dust with a multi-stage design. For the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oily smoke generated during melting and extrusion, we utilize a baffle-style mist eliminator or electrostatic precipitator as a pre-treatment stage to condense and remove heavy aerosols. This is followed by a high-temperature stable baghouse or cartridge collector equipped with specially coated filter media (e.g., ePTFE membrane) that resists blinding from the sticky, oily residues. The system is built to handle warm, moist air from cooling processes and is often constructed from corrosion-resistant materials like powder-coated carbon steel or stainless steel for acidic fume streams from certain polymers.

Application Area:

This solution is essential for post-consumer and post-industrial plastic recycling facilities processing materials like PET, PE, PP, and PVC. During the washing, shredding, melting, and re-pelletizing process, several pollutants are released: fine plastic dust from grinding, volatile additives and decomposition products as smoke from the extruder vent, and moisture-laden air from strand cooling. This mixture creates a sticky, challenging filtration problem that can quickly clog standard filters, cause fires from smoldering embers, and create unpleasant odors. Effective control is necessary to protect downstream equipment, ensure operator comfort, and meet air quality permits.

Our Solution:

LEFILTER's engineering team understands the variability of recycled feedstock. We design for the worst-case scenario in terms of smoke load and particulate stickiness. Our integrated solution often includes a spark trap after the shredder discharge to prevent fire hazards. The thermal oxidative fume from the extruder is captured and typically routed through a cooling duct before filtration. We design the filter with ample hopper space and discharge aids to handle the agglomerated dust cake. For facilities with odor concerns, an activated carbon adsorption module can be added as a final polishing stage. This comprehensive approach ensures reliable system uptime, protects your pellet quality from cross-contamination, and maintains a clean, safe working environment around your recycling line.

Call to Action:

Is smoke, dust, or odor limiting your recycling throughput or creating compliance issues? LEFILTER specializes in solving the tough filtration challenges in plastics recycling. Contact us for a line audit and a robust system design.