The S. Norton Group, a leading name in metal recycling, has recently unveiled a cutting-edge shredding facility in Manchester, representing a £20 million investment in sustainable innovation. Capable of processing up to 130 tons of metal per hour, the new plant is powered by advanced drive solutions from Mitsubishi Electric, playing a critical role in boosting efficiency and cutting operational costs.
Meeting the Challenges of Modern Metal Recycling
Metal recycling is notoriously energy intensive. From shredders and conveyor systems to air treatment equipment, the electrical demands are immense, and rising energy prices are tightening the margins.
Adding to the challenge, the shredder’s rotor must constantly adapt to changing loads depending on the composition of incoming scrap. This variability often leads to significant load peaks, power grid asymmetries, and wear on equipment. In response, the S. Norton Group, together with Lindemann Metal Recycling Solutions and Mitsubishi Electric, sought out a smarter, more resilient solution.
The Solution: Energy-Efficient Frequency Converters for Peak Performance
At the heart of this new plant are Mitsubishi Electric’s high-performance TMdrive and FR-A800/FR-F800 series frequency inverters. These drives enable precise control of the shredder’s 3,000 HP main motor, delivering consistent power while intelligently managing energy consumption.
Key benefits of Mitsubishi Electric’s drive technology include:
- Reduced Energy Consumption: Intelligent energy use drastically cuts electricity demand during peak load times.
- Enhanced Motor Utilisation: Drives operate within optimal performance ranges, avoiding overload and improving long-term efficiency.
- Load Peak Management: Smart load balancing smooths out demand spikes, helping stabilise the plant’s power draw and reducing stress on the grid.
- Extended Equipment Lifespan: With more accurate motor control, wear and tear are minimised, resulting in fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Tools like the Recycling Asset Portal support predictive maintenance by providing actionable insights into performance metrics.
Delivering Measurable Impact
Thanks to Mitsubishi Electric’s drives solutions, the Manchester facility not only achieves high throughput but also operates with significantly lower energy consumption. This directly translates into reduced operational expenses and a smaller environmental footprint.
A Strategic Step Toward a Circular Economy
As the metal recycling industry pushes toward sustainability, innovations like these play a pivotal role. Mitsubishi Electric’s energy efficient drive systems support the S. Norton Group’s commitment to a greener future, one where technology enhances profitability while protecting the planet.
Conclusion
Mitsubishi Electric’s collaboration with S. Norton and Lindemann sets a benchmark for sustainable industrial operations. With intelligent drive technology powering the plant, the Manchester shredder facility is positioned at the forefront of efficiency, performance, and environmental responsibility in the recycling sector.
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