The Flipflopi Toolkit
Recycling solutions for remote communities

Washing system

We only wash plastics that will be used for extrusion.

Our washing system is a three-chamber wash-line powered by turbines connected by a chain channel and a geared motor.

 

How it works

  1. Plastic flakes are added to the first water-filled chamber.
  2. Turbines propel the flakes through the chambers.
  3. Flakes are collected manually using a sieve in the third chamber.
  4. A 5mm stainless steel sieve at 0.5m depth catches sinking materials, while mud settles at the bottom.

Types of turbines used

Each turbine runs at a similar speed, but they handle different loads:

  • Closed-plate turbine – Moves flakes with a lot of water.
  • Holed-plate turbine – Moves flakes with minimal water.
  • Spiked-plate turbine – Moves flakes with minimal water.
Washing system with turbines

Cleaning process

  • Water, soap, and chlorine (350g per 3000L) are added daily to keep the water clear.
  • Fresh water is added in the first or third chamber, and it overflows into the second.
  • Soft plastics are washed manually in a large tank, like washing clothes.

 

Important tip

  • Sinking materials should be removed after every wash to prevent colour and polymer contamination.

 

This system helps us effectively clean plastics while reducing water waste and cross-contamination.

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