Operational efficiency, energy costs and output quality are three critical factors that directly determine the competitiveness of any plastic recycling facility. Single screw extruder technology stands out as an industrial solution that delivers strong results across all three.
Designed by Inan Tech, our single screw extruder systems provide stable processing conditions and high-quality granule output for high-volume plastic types including HDPE, LDPE, PE and PP. In this article, we cover the technical advantages of this technology, compatible material types and integrated system options.
A single screw extruder is an extrusion machine that melts and shapes plastic waste or raw material through heat and mechanical pressure. Material conveying, compression and melting are all carried out via a single rotating screw. In recycling applications, it is typically positioned at the final stage of the granulation line, filtering and converting molten polymer into granules.
Thanks to its straightforward mechanical design, low maintenance requirements and broad material compatibility, the single screw extruder is widely used across operations ranging from small-scale facilities to high-capacity industrial lines.
Single screw extruder systems are effectively used in the recycling of the following plastic types:
This broad material compatibility allows different waste streams to be processed using the same equipment infrastructure, reducing capital investment while increasing operational flexibility.
Modern single screw extruder designs significantly reduce energy consumption per unit output through barrier screw geometry and optimised barrel heating systems. This translates directly into lower operating costs, particularly in high-tonnage operations.
Screw design and L/D ratio (length-to-diameter) maintain consistent melt temperature and pressure throughout the process. This stability is the fundamental requirement for converting filtered polymer into uniform granules.
Compared to twin-screw systems, the single screw extruder has lower mechanical complexity, offering ease of servicing in the field. Screw and barrel wear parts are standardised, keeping replacement times short.
Transition times between different polymer types can be reduced through screw purging procedures. This minimises planned downtime in facilities processing multiple material streams.
By selecting the appropriate screw diameter (mm) and motor power (kW), output can be scaled from small laboratory lines all the way up to high-tonnage industrial production.
The single screw extruder is just one link in the recycling process. For maximum efficiency, it must operate in harmony with all other line components.
Pre-Processing Equipment
Post-Extruder
Inan Tech designs all of these components in-house, offering customers a single-source, end-to-end recycling line solution. Line integration means capacity optimisation, a unified control interface and a single point of responsibility.
The quality of granules produced at the extruder output is of critical importance for downstream manufacturing processes. Target granule properties in Inan Tech systems include:
These properties enable recycled granules to be used confidently as a substitute for virgin material, directly reducing raw material costs for the customer.
Inan Tech is an established Turkish manufacturer with over 35 years of experience in the plastic recycling machinery sector. Our single screw extruder systems are produced in compliance with European CE standards and offer a long service life thanks to high-grade barrel and screw steel. Every project is customised to the customer's capacity requirements and material profile, supported by on-site technical service and spare parts supply after delivery.
For any business investing in a recycling line, the technical support infrastructure behind the machine is just as decisive as the machine itself.
What is the difference between a single screw and twin screw extruder? The single screw extruder stands out for its straightforward material flow, low maintenance cost and wide polymer compatibility. Twin screw systems are preferred for filled or compounding applications. The vast majority of recycling applications can be carried out efficiently with a single screw configuration.
What capacity ranges are available? Options are available from 100 kg/h to over 2,000 kg/h across different screw diameter selections. The appropriate capacity is determined by raw material type, moisture content, filter type and overall line configuration.
Can HDPE and LDPE be processed on the same extruder? Yes, however the temperature profile and screw speed must be adjusted per material. Inan Tech systems are equipped with adjustable heating zones and speed control systems that simplify these transitions.
Single screw extruder technology offers a reliable, efficient and cost-effective solution for converting HDPE, LDPE, PE and PP plastic waste into granules. With the right line integration and quality equipment, recycled material can reach a standard that competes directly with virgin plastic.
At Inan Tech, we provide custom extruder configurations and full line integration solutions tailored to each customer's production goals.
📩 Contact us for technical details and a capacity assessment.
