Although plastic granulators are very robust machines, operators should still be aware of proper usage as this will help lower long-run maintenance costs and the frequency of knife sharpening. In addition, proper usage should be followed for safety reasons. Below are important tips to consider when operating a plastic granulator:
- Do not place any foreign objects on or around the granulator (especially during operation).
- Granulators and shredders are two separate types of machines. Whereas shredders are very adapt to large plastic lumps or purgings, this material will damage a granulator.
- Before turing on a plastic granulator, check the cutting chamber to ensure there are no materials already inside.
- Turn a plastic granulator on before feeding plastic into the machine.
- Do not batch feed a plastic granulator. Shredders are much more adapt to batch feeding.
- Do not overload the granulator by over feeding.
- Inspect knives for wear and clearance. Adjust, sharpen, and replace as necessary.
- Always empty the collection bin on-time keeping with a routine, do not let the collection bin overload into the cutting chamber.
- Rotate between several granulator screens to extend overall screen life.
- If a blower is being used to evacuate the cut regrinds, make sure to stop the granulator before stoping the blower 30 seconds later.
- Allow the granulator to purge before turning it off.