Used paper machine clothing: a holy grail of raw material for recycling

Jan Freudenberg, Director R&D Forming Fabrics, ANDRITZ, says, “We have recognized this complicated challenge for some time, and we have been intensively working in the background with universities and recycling experts worldwide on finding a solution. After extensive research works and trials, we have successfully launched this brand-new concept of PMC recycling service to our customers across Europe.”

BRINGING IT INTO LIFE

In its search for an expert to upscale and bring the final concept into life, ANDRITZ partnered with HolyPoly, a young German recycling specialist with exactly the right approach and enthusiasm to join this pioneering mission. HolyPoly already operates successfully in the business of recycling post-consumer waste and has the ability to provide all the logistics framework and expertise, as well as regulatory requirements out of one hand.

Freudenberg continues, “As ANDRITZ is not a certified recycling company, and managing waste is not our core business, we needed an experienced partner to make it happen. From the very beginning of our cooperation, HolyPoly has proved to be the perfect fit as we roll out the concept across Europe, and is already successfully recycling PMC from paper mills located in Finland and Germany.”  

THE PROCESS – SIMPLICITY IS THE KEY

Under the exclusive agreement between the two companies, HolyPoly is licensed by ANDRITZ to take full responsibility for the collection and recycling of the used PMC from paper mills. However, there is no extra work or effort required on behalf of paper mill personnel as the recycling program seamlessly integrates into the paper mill’s waste handling process.

The collection and recycling of PMC from paper mills is not only limited to ANDRITZ forming and fabrics products, all OEM and manufactures’ products are treated the same way in the service provided by HolyPoly.

Niklas Bäumer, Project Owner Recycling Programs, HolyPoly, explains, “The used PMC will be removed from the mill in the usual way including the use of existing contractors, however instead of the waste going for incineration or landfill, it will be treated, baled, and then rerouted to our recycling plants.”

After signing an agreement with the mill, HolyPoly takes over the complete process, from collecting, treating, baling, transporting, and recycling of the used PMC. “The customer then receives a full annual report from HolyPoly including the amount of PMC removed, where it was transported to, and when it was recycled,” adds Bäumer. “This report is essential for sustainability reporting at the mill, which is becoming increasingly important when it comes to waste regulations and the reduction of carbon emissions.”

NO LIMITS AND THE ULTIMATE GOAL

“As from right now, paper mills across Europe can recycle all used PMC into valuable plastic products.”, says Freudenberg.

From electronic housing, technical components to even car parts – there seem to be no limits. Any kind of technical plastic parts made from Polyamid would be possible, depending on the application. The ultimate goal is to turn it into our own products, meaning to “close the loop” with new ANDRITZ paper machine clothing.

FUTURE PROOFING PAPER MILL SUSTAINABILITY

This first-of-its-kind solution allows paper mills to improve the sustainability and circularity of their production activities. The recycling concept also enables mills to be ready early for any increased waste requirement regulations that will be implemented in the disposal of waste in the future.  

“The PMC recycling program has been a real project of “the heart” for the team involved at ANDRITZ and HolyPoly,” says Freudenberg. “From small baby steps to offering a full recycling service represents a win-win for all users of fabrics and felts in the paper industry and for ANDRITZ it underlines our commitment to sustainability and circularity at paper mills.”

So, how does a customer get involved, and begin the PMC recycling process? “Just give ANDRITZ a call - we’ll work with you to develop a tailored proposal for how you can take part in the recycling program,” concludes Freudenberg.