PETpla.net Insider 06 / 2023

MATERIALS / RECYCLING PETplanet Insider Vol. 24 No. 06/23 www.petpla.net 10 Handling resin in the right way In the world of food packaging, the safety and quality of materials used are of paramount importance. Plastic resins are widely utilised in the production of food packaging, but not all resins are created equal. Two major regulatory bodies, the European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), provide guidelines and approvals for food-grade plastic resins. PET Solutions, known for plastic processing machinery, with more than 20 years of collaboration with the major producers of PET preforms, has recognised the need for tailored drying solutions based on the type of resin used. To address this, PET Solutions have developed two distinct dryer systems, each catering to different requirements. The first solution incorporates the use of an oil condenser, specifically designed for situations where non-Efsa certified resins are utilised. This dryer removes harmful substances during the plastic processing stage, ensuring product safety. While the inclusion of an oil condenser incurs energy costs, PET Solutions recognises its necessity in certain circumstances to maintain the integrity of the final product. Dryer The dryer features an automatic parameter setting that adjusts according to the IMM. It utilises a counter current regeneration system, which results in lower regeneration temperature and shorter regeneration time. With the smart start & stop function, it is claimed to prevent resin degradation. The dryer eliminates the need for cooling water during production and incorporates accurate process airflow control to minimise energy consumption. Oil condenser The oil condenser can be set up through the dryer without requiring an operator. It features automatic process airflow and temperature control, which ensures optimal performance and leads to energy savings. Additionally, there is an exclusive patented version of the oil condenser available that incorporates Activated Carbon for enhanced functionality, says PET Solutions. Ultra cleaning filter The Ultra Cleaning Filter is a patented catalytic filter specifically designed to reduce hydrocarbons. It is claimed to be effective in removing contaminants such as acetaldehyde, benzene, and limonene. With its specialised design, this filter ensures efficient purification of the airflow. Solution with food grade resin – new generation dryer with ultra cleaning filter On the other hand, PET Solutions has also developed a second dryer solution exclusively designed for Efsacertified resins. This dryer eliminates the need for an oil condenser, providing substantial energy savings. By leveraging the inherent safety and quality of Efsa-certified resins, this dryer ensures a more efficient and sustainable manufacturing process. New generation dryer The new generation dryer brings improvements to the quality of rPET materials. It boasts a remarkable +47% increase in filtration capacity, thanks to its double filter system, which also optimises maintenance operations. Additionally, the dryer achieves a -15% reduction in energy consumption on blowers, thanks to its new patented process design positioned after the desiccant towers. The larger exchanger size provides a +45% boost in cooling capacity. Furthermore, the dryer achieves a +25% overall energy recovery, eliminating the need for an oil condenser. Turbofan (option) The Turbofan is a patented solution that ensures a speed of +15,000 rpm. It is claimed to offer versatility, capable of handling up to 1,700 kg/h of material. With this advanced technology, the Turbofan provides enhanced performance and efficiency for a wide range of applications. PET Solutions’ commitment to providing customised drying solutions reflects the understanding of the varying needs within the bottling industry. By offering an oil condenser dryer for non-certified resins and an energysaving solution for Efsa-certified resins, enables companies to choose the most appropriate option based on their specific resin requirements and sustainability goals. www.petsolutions.it

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