Nordson BKG GmbH, part of Nordson Corporation’s (Nasdaq: NDSN) Polymer Processing Systems division, and FIMIC S.r.l. have entered a strategic collaboration to deliver fully integrated, high-throughput solutions for recycling post-consumer polyolefins. The joint offering is engineered for 4.0 to 6.0 t/h and targets recurring bottlenecks in large-scale operations, including feedstock variability, filtration limits and unplanned downtime. By combining Nordson’s gear pumps, valves and underwater pelletizing systems with FIMIC’s high-performance filtration units, the lines are designed to maintain stable melt pressure, achieve fine filtration and ensure pellet homogeneity under high load and high levels of automation.
The platform is based on a modular system architecture available in three configurations to match different production setups and maintenance philosophies: DO (discontinuous operation), CO (continuous operation) and CFO (continuous flexible operation). The intent is to allow recyclers to align throughput, uptime and service windows without compromising product consistency. The solution integrates from the twin-screw adaptor flange through to the underwater pelletizer, with intelligent pump control and automated venting to stabilize quality during transitions such as filter changes.
Thermal management is addressed through design measures including mobile components and thermal elongation adaptors to preserve alignment and system stability on high-capacity, high-temperature lines. The companies emphasize a single point of responsibility, described as a "one face to the customer" approach, to reduce interface risk and simplify project execution. Demonstrations of the integrated setup are available at Nordson BKG’s technical center in Münster. The partners state that the development supports scalable, efficient recycling aligned with circular plastics economy objectives.
System configurations
DO-Line, discontinuous operation
A cost-focused configuration that requires a complete line stop for screen changes on the FIMIC melt filter. This layout prioritizes simplicity where scheduled interruptions are acceptable and the production plan accommodates batch-wise operation.
DO-Line (Discontinuous Operation)
CO-Line, continuous operation
Configured with dual diverter valves, allowing a screen change on one filter while the other remains in service. During changeover, the line maintains up to 75 percent of nominal throughput, limiting quality fluctuations and reducing production losses associated with maintenance.
CO-Line (Continuous Operation)
CFO-Line, continuous flexible operation
The most advanced option features two underwater pelletizers. One line can run while the other undergoes service, enabling uninterrupted production. The configuration uses smaller equipment sizes for gear pumps and pelletizers, which reduces investment and spare parts requirements for those subsystems.
CFO-Line (Continuous Flexible Operation)
Key technical parameters
- Integrated scope from twin-screw adaptor flange to underwater pelletizer, minimizing interfaces.
- Minimum throughput of 4 t/h with filtration fineness in the 100 to 150 μm range.
- Intelligent pump control and modular design to maximize performance with minimal operator intervention, supporting lower total cost of ownership.
- Fully automated venting designed to stabilize melt quality during filter changes by eliminating defects associated with trapped gases.
- Thermal management via mobile components and thermal elongation adaptors to maintain alignment and stability at high operating temperatures.
Project integration and demonstration
The collaboration adopts a single supplier interface, aiming to simplify engineering, commissioning and service. Customers can view the integrated Nordson BKG and FIMIC setup at the Nordson BKG technical center in Münster to assess component interaction, pressure stability and pellet quality across operating scenarios.
Event presence
The companies plan to present the integrated recycling solutions at K 2025. Nordson BKG will exhibit in hall 9, booth D09, and FIMIC will exhibit at booth D18.
