The CELEC Club's Innovative Recycling Machine

In a world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of plastic waste, innovative solutions are more critical than ever. The CELEC Club at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene (USTHB) has risen to the challenge with a pioneering project that transforms plastic waste into filament for 3D printing.

Project Overview

Our recycling machine project represents a significant step forward in sustainable technology. This machine is designed to take discarded plastic items and convert them into high-quality filament that can be used in 3D printers. The project not only promotes sustainability but also offers our members valuable hands-on experience in engineering and technology.

Key Components of the Recycling Machine

Shredding Unit: The first step in the recycling process involves breaking down plastic waste into small, manageable pieces. This is achieved using a robust shredding unit that can handle various types of plastic materials.

Extruder: Once the plastic is shredded, it is fed into the extruder. The extruder melts the plastic and forces it through a nozzle, forming a continuous strand of filament.

Cooling System: To ensure that the filament solidifies properly as it exits the extruder, a cooling system is employed. This system cools the filament to the appropriate temperature, preventing deformation and ensuring consistent quality.

Filament Winder: The finished filament is then collected onto spools by the filament winder. These spools can be used directly in 3D printers, providing a sustainable source of filament for various applications.

Control System

The control and operation of the recycling machine are managed by a sophisticated control system that utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller and two MOSFETs. The key components of this system include:

ESP32 Computing Unit: The heart of the control system, the ESP32, manages the overall operation of the machine. It coordinates the various stages of the recycling process and ensures smooth and efficient operation.

Motor and Nozzle Control: The ESP32 controls the motor and nozzle using two MOSFETs. This setup allows precise control over the extrusion process, ensuring the filament is produced at a consistent rate and quality.

Temperature Control: An NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor is used to monitor and control the temperature within the extruder. Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for melting the plastic and producing high-quality filament.

Achievements and Future Goals

We are proud to report that our prototype has successfully produced filament of very good quality. This achievement demonstrates the viability of our design and the potential for this technology to make a significant impact in promoting sustainability.

Looking ahead, we aim to refine our design and develop new PCBs to enhance the functionality and efficiency of the machine. Our goal is to create a robust, user-friendly recycling solution that can be adopted widely to reduce plastic waste and promote a circular economy.