Recycled material buying guide
Recycled polymer materials and scrap: a lower price does not always mean a lower cost
The value of a recycled lot is not defined by price per kilogram alone. Usable yield, contamination, moisture, process loss, sorting cost, production stability, and the effect on the final part can change the true cost.
Confirm the polymer identity first
Mixing PP, PE, PET, PVC, or engineering polymers may seriously change processing and part properties. The scrap source, previous application, and sorting method should be understood as far as possible. Uncertain lots require stronger sampling and testing.
Material form and preparation
Recycled feedstock may be supplied as parts, regrind, flakes, densified film, lumps, or pellets. Particle size, uniformity, dust, metal, moisture, and packaging affect handling, feeding, and processing.
Color, odor, and contamination
Base color, color variation, printing, adhesive, paper, metal, soil, organic residue, and incompatible polymers should be checked. Odor may come from the previous application, insufficient washing, or thermal degradation. Limits must match the intended end use.
Representative sampling
A handful from the top of one bag may not represent the shipment. Samples should be taken from several points and packages and registered against the lot. More variable materials require a stricter sampling plan.
Calculate real production yield
When comparing two lots, include sorting loss, washing and drying loss, energy, required additives, reduced production speed, and rejected parts. A cheaper purchase may result in a higher converted cost.
How PLASTIX adds value
PLASTIX records the required visual and technical criteria, keeps the source and sample traceable, and uses customer trial feedback in subsequent sourcing. The level of control is adjusted to the material and application risk.