The challenge
The growing volume of packaging waste has evolved into a significant global issue, with estimates showing that up to 91% of this material ends up in landfill or incinerators. This leads to underutilised resources and increased CO2 emissions. A portion of the remaining waste contaminates the environment, contributing to plastic pollution, the degradation of ecosystems, and even entering the food chain in the form of microplastics.
In Europe, Nidec Drives collaborates with TOMRA, a pioneering company that designs machines to optimise resource recovery.
In April 2023, TOMRA encountered a significant challenge when the Dutch deposit system expanded to include cans in addition to plastic bottles, with the goal of reducing “street waste”. The new target aimed to collect 90% of all packaging sold, equating to 900 million small PET bottles and 2.5 billion cans annually.
The solution
TOMRA needed to adapt its Z-conveyor for handling increased volumes of both PET bottles and cans seamlessly, to allow retailers to cope with the expanded deposit system without disruption. To meet TOMRA’s needs, the original 1-phase motor of the Z-conveyor was replaced with a 3-phase motor combined with the Control Techniques Commander S Micro AC variable speed drive. The Commander S variable speed drive offers power ratings from 0.18 to 4 kW and a maximum output frequency of 300 Hz, which enabled smooth motor control, and making it possible to switch the conveyor motors on and off in a controlled manner; preventing high starting currents and overheating.
This solution allowed for a direct, 1:1 replacement of the old motor without requiring the entire machine to be returned to the manufacturer. Once the new motor was mounted, only four parameters needed adjustment to get it up and running, offering TOMRA an efficient and reliable solution for the conveyor upgrade.
The benefits
Thanks to the collaboration between Nidec Drives and Duursma, along with the introduction of the Control Techniques Commander S in TOMRA’s Z-conveyor, TOMRA can now offer an efficient solution that helps collection points comply with current laws and regulations.
This innovation allows TOMRA to maintain its pivotal role in the circular economy, making it easier for consumers to return their packaging and contribute to a sustainable future. By streamlining the recycling process, TOMRA continues to support environmental goals, reducing waste, and promoting resource reuse. This partnership not only ensures compliance but also strengthens TOMRA’s ability to lead in sustainability and recycling innovation.
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