Design and Performance Evaluation of a Hot Press Machine for Converting Plastic Waste into Environmentally Friendly Plastic Boards

Abstract

The increasing volume of plastic waste has become a significant environmental issue, requiring innovative recycling technologies to enhance waste utilization while reducing the burden on landfills. This study aimed to design, develop, and evaluate the performance of a hot press machine for converting plastic waste into environmentally friendly plastic boards. An experimental approach was employed, including machine design, fabrication, heating system evaluation, and plastic pressing tests. The machine was equipped with six electric heating elements rated at 40 W each (240 W total power) and a 10-ton hydraulic pressing system. Performance evaluation was conducted by investigating the effect of shredded plastic mass on board quality under a heating temperature of 200 °C, a pressing force of 1 ton, and a heating duration of 2 hours. The results indicated that increasing the plastic feed mass improved the density and compactness of the produced boards. A shredded plastic mass of 5 kg produced a dense plastic board without visible voids, whereas lower masses still exhibited internal pores. These findings demonstrate that the developed hot press machine is capable of producing higher-quality recycled plastic boards through appropriate process parameter control. The proposed technology has potential applications for laboratory-scale and small-scale recycling industries, contributing to sustainable plastic waste management and the implementation of a circular economy.