Pioneering Plastic Recycling in Spain
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| INSERPLASA was founded by two childhood friends |
It all started in 1986 when the general manager’s fathers, two childhood friends, began collecting, processing and transforming plastics into something of value at a time when such activities were viewed with scepticism. Navigating unknown territory, they launched a mission of discovery, learning first hand the difficulties of plastic recycling. These early efforts, laid the foundations for a company that would become a leader in environmental solutions in Spain.
“When we first started sorting bottles, we could do it by colour. Later, labels were added, which made it a little more difficult, but over the years they became full sleeves around the bottle. Then the situation became more complicated and we looked for help.” – Juanjo Sánchez
Their collaboration with STEINERT was a turning point for INSERPLASA. The process, as one of the founders son, Juanjo Sánchez, remembers, has been both challenging and rewarding. By implementing STEINERT's advanced sorting technologies, INSERPLASA redefined the efficiency and quality of its operations. These technological improvements were not just upgrades; they were game changers that put INSERPLASA at the front of the recycling industry.
The Ecological and Economic Leap
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| STEINERT's UniSort PR EVO 5.0 NIR sorting system |
The integration of STEINERT's near-infrared (NIR) sorting systems UniSort PR EVO 5.0 has revolutionised INSERPLASA's operations. These systems use Artificial Intelligence-based sorting programmes and a high-resolution Hyper Spectral Imaging (HSI)/colour sensor combination to detect complex plastic materials, which were previously indistinguishable. In this way, INSERPLASA produces polyethylene (PE, HD-PE, LD-PE), polypropylene (PP) and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) recyclates in different colours.
Sánchez highlights the transformative impact of these technologies. The advanced sorting systems have not only improved the purity and quality of recycled plastics, but also increased operational efficiency. This technological leap has allowed INSERPLASA to expand its capacity and process a wider range of plastic materials than before, while reducing the energy consumption.
Today, INSERPLASA is a benchmark of sustainability and innovation. Its commitment to producing high quality recycled plastic products has not only strengthened its market position, but also underlined its commitment to the environment. The increased capacity and improved economic and environmental footprint are proof of a successful partnership with STEINERT. Together, they show how challenges can be turned into opportunities, leading the way to a more sustainable future.
“We liked the robustness, the precision and also the quality convinced us. When you say ‘We are not the cheapest.’ We know that. But there are some components that we know have their price, if you want quality, you have to pay for quality.”
