The continued trend toward greater quantities and a greater variety of plastic containers, coupled with the inevitable fluctuations in plastic recycling markets, will require that MRF operators continue to assess all aspects of MRF operations to minimize costs and maximize revenues. The results of research at seven MRFs on improving plastic processing suggest sever- al areas with significant potential for reducing plastic bottle processing costs: 1. Reduce contamination entering the MRF through consistent and clear education of recycling participants. 2. Minimize material storage time on the tipping floor. 3. Increase manual sorting rates by presenting sorters with a clean, consistent burden depth of containers. 4. As the technology evolves, replace manual sorting with automated sorting. 5. Improve baler efficiency and bale weight through installation of perforator and surge capacity.
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