The alternative fuel production industry has evolved significantly over the years, to the point where many would now consider it a relatively mature market. But that doesn’t mean, as a sector, we’ve exhausted all opportunities when it comes to the efficient manufacturing of RDF, SRF and TDF. In fact, things are just starting to get really exciting…
Preserving the resource value of ‘waste’ materials by transforming them into an alternative fuel, helps protect the UK’s environmental agenda. Non-renewable energy sources such as coal and gas are depleting, and more renewable substitutes with less carbon impact are crucial for modern society.
The waste hierarchy’s reduce, reuse, recycle philosophy is the priority, but for as long as materials such as MSW, C&I waste and tyres keep being produced, the recovery route should then be prioritised. This avoids costly disposal fees too.
There was a time when alternative fuel production was only considered by market leaders with vast budgets to invest, or a particularly transparent environmental agenda to drive. But as demand has increased, more firms are entering the lucrative Waste to Energy market. Thankfully, technological innovation means the process is far simpler – and more profitable – than it has ever been.
UNTHA has been at the forefront of the RDF, SRF and TDF manufacturing space for the last decade – we’ve even been consulted on the industry refinement of specifications to drive quality within the Waste to Energy Market. But we’ve not once rested on our laurels. We’ve continued to innovate, which sees the globally-renowned UNTHA XR lead the way when it comes to quick SRF (on-specification fuel production in a single step).
The XR shredder can produce an alternative fuel for under £3.00 per tonne, including wear spares, maintenance and power. And, thanks to the energy consumption savings alone, cashflow and operating costs can be reduced by 60% or over £40,000 per year, or £400,000 over the life of the shredder, compared to a diesel hydraulic machine. All of this with up to 80% increased yield on ferrous and non-ferrous material, which could pay for the machine in as little as 12 months!
UNTHA has manufactured many types of alternative fuels on almost every continent in the world. We’ve helped transform footwear production waste into a cement fuel in Vietnam; we’ve closed the loop for a recycled paper specialist in Belgium to transform pulper ropes into an energy source; and we’re currently working with operators in Australia to drive their Process Engineered Fuel (PEF) potential. The list goes on – every project is different, but our knowledge is driving change, globally.
UNTHA shredders have been engineered with flexibility in mind – they can handle multiple waste streams from tyres to mattresses, and produce varied output specifications, which safeguards operators against market volatility.
When we designed our waste shredders, we didn’t just prioritise throughputs. We also thought carefully about particle homogeneity, foreign object protection, noise and dust minimisation, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance and long service intervals. This all adds up to operational excellence and maximum bottom line impact for clients.
The expertise of UNTHA’s Energy from Waste specialists is sought at conferences in both the UK and overseas, to help drive understanding and education surrounding best practice RDF, SRF and TDF fuel production. We’ve worked with cement operators to close the loop and create a secure feedstock for the calciner or main burner; we’ve helped start-up business earn millions from this market; and we’ve transformed the profitability and energy efficiency of long-established WtE firms that have been doing this for years. As a result, we’ve spoken at events ranging from RWM, to the Energy from Waste Conference and Global CemFuels Conference.
We know seeing is believing, so talk to us about trialling one of our RDF / SRF / TDF shredders on your own site, so you can put the machinery to the test using your own materials.
(unsorted or pre-treated, loose or baled)
i.e. carpets & mattresses
With three cutter configurations and variable rotor speed for high performance alternative fuel production, there’s no such thing as a one size fits all Waste to Energy shredder.
The same great alternative fuel production technology with inbuilt tracks and discharge conveyor for added on-site flexibility.
“The world of Waste to Energy is fast-paced and frequently changing. The very purpose of it is to produce fossil fuel substitutes that can vastly improve our resource security as a nation. But in pursuing such a ‘green’ agenda, it is important to invest in solutions that enhance the commercial viability of the whole operation. Our shredding overhaul has fulfilled this brief entirely.”
Duncan Barrass, director
Dates set for UK launch of UNTHA ZR
Currently UNTHA UK’s best-selling shredder, available from only £250 per week including conveyor, delivery, commissioning, training and annual service!
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