Starlinger recycling technology will showcase the new recoSTAR dynamic art recycling system at K 2025, targeting post-consumer waste streams such as film from food and agricultural use, fibers and foamed plastics. The line is designed for heavily contaminated input with elevated moisture from storage or washing and aims to deliver high-quality regranulate suitable for demanding applications. According to the company, the redesign focuses on higher throughput, improved process stability and simplified service. Paul Niedl, Commercial Head of Starlinger recycling technology, said: "We have technically optimized the components of our new recoSTAR dynamic art recycling systems in such a way that production output and system efficiency have increased significantly. For example, the SMARTfeeder has been made larger, and we use more powerful drive motors with a low energy class. At the same time, we significantly simplified and shortened machine maintenance. Together with the optionally available starLOGGER software which ensures accurate data recording and our Dynamic Automation Package plus which now features a convenient automatic on/off function, the new system is easier and more user-friendly to operate than ever." The system also integrates a large multi-touch panel that stores circuit diagrams and operating instructions, and enables one-button start and stop.
Process and automation features
A central design element is the spin-feed concept. Newly conceived ribs in the SMARTfeeder prepare the input for extrusion, while the special geometry of the cone bushing and the extruder feed zone holds material longer and introduces it with increased pressure and spin. This spin feed is intended to raise overall performance. The Dynamic Automation Package detects fluctuations in the input material, for example variations in bulk density or moisture content, and adjusts extruder speed accordingly. If material feed is interrupted, the package automatically places the line in standby and restarts it when feed resumes.
Starlinger will also present a new underwater pelletizing unit for the first time at K. Designed to integrate into a highly automated workflow, the unit is specified to operate efficiently at high throughputs and to handle a broad range of input materials. Together with optional starLOGGER process data capture, the system configuration is positioned to support traceable and repeatable production.
PET decontamination and capacity
Bottle-to-bottle recycling will be the second focus on the stand. At the end of June 2025, Starlinger received a positive Scientific Opinion from the European Food Safety Authority for the recoSTAR PET art recycling process, issued under EU Regulation 2022/1616. The opinion confirms the decontamination performance of the process. The regulation streamlines market authorization, as Starlinger can license the process directly to PET recyclers once the official approval has been granted and the Recycling Process Authorization Number has been issued.
Compared with the previous model, machines in the recoSTAR PET art series are reported to consume 25 percent less energy and deliver 15 percent higher output. With the addition of a 265 mm extruder, the series now covers a throughput range from 1,000 to 4,500 kg per hour.
On-stand presentation
Visitors will be able to explore the components of a recoSTAR dynamic art and a recoSTAR PET art line via video animations on screens. The presentation follows the process from material feeding, extruder and control panel, through filtration, degassing and pelletizing to post-treatment of the recyclate, highlighting the features of each subsystem.
Starlinger recycling technology at K 2025: Hall 9, Booth A28.
