Calculating labor cost for recycling is a key part of your business plan. While our goal is to maximize automation, staffing your plastic recycling plant correctly is vital for both quality and efficiency. The number of workers per shift depends on your line’s capacity and level of automation.

Application du convoyeur à bande escalade
Application du convoyeur à bande escalade

Let’s break down the typical roles for a medium-sized (1000-1500 kg/h) line per shift:

  • Forklift Operator (1 Worker): Responsible for loading raw material bales into the de-baler or initial conveyor.
  • Manual Sorters (2-6 Workers): This is the most variable role. The number of sorters needed depends on the contamination level of your incoming bottles. They are your front-line defense against PVC and other foreign materials.
  • Line Supervisor (1 Worker): A skilled PET recycling line operator who monitors the entire system from the central control cabinet, adjusting speeds and temperatures.
  • Packing & Logistics (1 Worker): Manages the bagging station for finished flakes and prepares them for shipment.

Total per shift: 5 to 9 workers.

How can you reduce this? Investing in a more automatic PET washing line with features like a bale breaker, trommel screen, and auto-dosing systems for chemicals reduces manual intervention, leading to lower long-term labor cost in Calculating labor cost for recycling is a key part of your business plan. While our goal is to maximize automation, staffing your plastic recycling plant correctly is vital for both quality and efficiency. The number of workers per shift depends on your line’s capacity and level of automation.