The first units used shredders/granulators to free the coffee grinds from the packaging. This method created packaging residues that migrated into the separated coffee grinds.
The engineers at ITS have developed an innovative recycling system. The main challenge this project presented was being able to process the coffee grinds which continuously transform due to several factors such as external environmental conditions and interval from the moment a capsule is discarded to recycling time. The internal coffee grinds can have a humidity of almost 100% with a consistency of sludge or be completely dry in the shape of a small very hardball. This condition would not allow traditional separation methods based on density or size.
The CRS2000 units designed by ITS can successfully separate the used coffee grinds from their packaging regardless of their internal physical conditions with very little cross-contamination. This patented system has demonstrated to perform well with both aluminum capsules or plastic versions.
Mix of used coffee
capsules and pods
before processing
Aluminium and plastic
Capsules packaging side
Processed used
coffee grinds
In these past years, ITS has supplied in several parts of the world these units which are being operated by the partners of this large multinational group.
These units are easy to set and their “plug & play” configuration makes them very simple to operate. All moving parts are enclosed and protected to prevent any contact with the operator.
