Sizing and recycling waste materials requires unique equipment depending on the type of waste stream, meaning processing facility managers must carefully choose the right machine for the job.

Correctly sizing a waste stream means analysing the type and quantity of waste, as well as the rate of processing required.

When it comes to sizing wood waste, construction and demolition (C&D) material, and municipal solid waste (MSW), the two most common equipment types are low-speed shredders and high-speed grinders.

Understanding the difference between shredders and grinders is important for waste facilities. Knowing which materials work best with each machine can help process waste more efficiently, enabling effective waste management.

One-stop-shop

As a world-recognised provider of industry equipment, Vermeer supplies both shredders and grinders for waste processing.

Vermeer has been a market leader in the recycling and forestry equipment spaces for 30 years. Whilst it was initially known for its high-speed tub and horizontal grinders, the waste processing market has changed and today Vermeer offers low-speed tools as well, providing one of the most comprehensive product offerings for the waste industry.

High or low?

Recycling professionals use low-speed shredders and high-speed grinders to process a variety of waste materials.

Several factors influence which of these machines is best suited to a particular operation, such as the type, size and shape of the material to be processed and the desired end product.

High-speed grinder

High speed grinders typically use fast-spinning hammer mills, from 800 to 1,300rpm, for quicker material processing compared to their low-speed counterparts.

This makes them suitable for facilities where contamination isn’t a factor and throughput is a high priority. These grinders provide consistency and control over the final product’s size, thanks to adjustable cutter tips and screen sizes.

Grinders are best for turning organic waste like trees, plants and yard materials into products such as compost, mulch and biofuel.

Low-speed shredder

Low-speed shredders are highly versatile and are often used to process contaminated waste that may cause damage to a high-speed grinder.

Thanks to their low rotor speed and high torque, shredders can manage a wide range of difficult waste streams including C&D waste, contaminated green waste, MSW and storm and land clearing debris.

Shredders can be equipped with crossband magnets to better process waste streams contaminated with ferrous metals. Not only does this allow for managing a wider range of materials, but it can also potentially unlock additional revenue streams.

Low speed, high power

The LS3600TX low-speed shredder is the most recent addition to Vermeer’s line-up of waste processing equipment. This machine is designed to be a productive, feature-rich and versatile option, incorporating cutting-edge technology that efficiently processes contaminated waste streams and helps safeguard critical machine components.

Featuring a single shaft welded rotor and adjustable comb, the LS3600TX shredder is powered by a 456hp (340kW) CAT Tier 4 Final/Stage V engine.

It also comes with a full-function remote control mode, allowing operators to adjust the machine and access data from a distance. The shredder also boasts a tracked undercarriage, which enables operators to reposition and manoeuvre it around a jobsite.

The LS3600TX is equipped with a 3m long rotor and a fully mechanical driveline designed to optimise horsepower transfer. To protect the driveline system against unshreddable objects, the shredder includes a reversible mechanical transmission with an external torque limiter that will automatically disengage the drive when maximum torque is reached.

The LS3600TX is the culmination of Vermeer’s 30 years of experience and innovation in the recycling and forestry sector.

For more information, contact your local Vermeer Australia team on 1300 VERMEER or contact us.