![[Pasted image 20240221100853.png]] ![[starterkit-shredder (1).zip]] ## Description The Precious Plastic Shredder is a machine developed as part of the Precious Plastic project, which is an open-source initiative aimed at empowering communities to recycle plastic waste and turn it into new products. The shredder is specifically designed to shred plastic waste into small, uniform pieces, making it easier to process and recycle into new products. ![[Pasted image 20241008003554.png]] Key features and components of the Precious Plastic Shredder include: 1. **Frame:** The shredder typically features a sturdy frame made of metal or welded steel to provide support and stability during the shredding process. The frame may include mounting points for attaching the shredding mechanism and motor. 2. **Shredding Mechanism:** The heart of the shredder is the shredding mechanism, which consists of rotating blades or cutters that shred the plastic waste into small pieces. The blades are typically made of hardened steel or other durable materials to withstand the abrasion and cutting forces during shredding. 3. **Hopper:** The shredder includes a hopper where plastic waste is fed into the machine for shredding. The hopper may include a feed chute or conveyor belt to facilitate the loading of plastic waste into the shredding mechanism. 4. **Motor:** The shredder is powered by an electric motor that drives the shredding mechanism. The motor provides the necessary torque and rotational speed to shred plastic waste efficiently. The motor may be mounted directly on the shredder frame or connected to the shredding mechanism via a belt or gearbox. 5. **Safety Features:** The shredder is equipped with safety features to protect operators and prevent accidents during operation. This may include safety guards around the shredding mechanism, emergency stop buttons, and interlocking mechanisms to prevent access to moving parts while the machine is in operation. 6. **Size Reduction:** The shredder is capable of reducing plastic waste into small, uniform pieces, typically ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size, depending on the desired output. The shredded plastic can then be further processed using other machines, such as an extruder or injection molder, to create new products. The Precious Plastic Shredder is designed to be affordable, easy to build, and customizable, making it accessible to individuals, makerspaces, and community workshops around the world. By shredding plastic waste locally and turning it into valuable raw materials, the shredder contributes to reducing plastic pollution and promoting circular economy principles. ![[Pasted image 20241008003608.png]] ## Quick Stats **Type:** HDPE, LDPE, PP, PS, PLA **Max thickness:** 2mm **Size of hopper input:** 400 x 200 mm **Output:** ±10 kg/h Max Wattage: 600 Continuous, 2400W+ surge for < 2 sec when starting or jammed HP: 3/4 Gear Reduction: 50:1 Inputs 600W 120VAC Electricity Plastic Trash Outputs Shredded Plastic Trash ## Tools ## Bill of Materials Electric Motor Shredder Parts Hex Spindle Lovejoy Coupler Frame Hopper Seive Plate Forward/Reverse Controller Build Steps