The new system increased capacity from processing 25 to 40 tons per hour. This capacity presented a significant challenge during the design phase, primarily due to the limited space available within the existing building. Republic Services had outgrown the facility, and due to contractual requirements between Republic and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community where the building is located, it was required to be built back to the original specifications; therefore, necessitating the development of an innovative and space-efficient system to meet their evolving needs. “The River Recycling MRF is a critical piece for recycling infrastructure in the East Valley, and even across the entire Phoenix metro area. Machinex is excited to see the facility back up and operating and is very proud to have supported Republic Services throughout their rebuilding effort,” said Will Herzog, Sales Manager for the Western Region Sales Manager for Machinex.
The new system is equipped with the latest Machinex sorting equipment such as Ballistic Separators, MACH Hyspec® Optical Sorters, a SamurAI® Sorting Robot for HDPE quality control and HDPE positive sorting, and an Eddy Current. The SamurAI® robot is focused on positive sortation of HDPE natural after all HDPE is sorted optically. Optical sorters that were not present in the original design were added to clean paper and another was added on the container line to remove 3D fiber and film.
The site presented many challenges related to the rebuild of the new facility. However, with a lot of hard work and open lines of communication the partnership between Machinex and Republic saw the project through to a productive and successful completion.