Van Dyk showcases technology center at WasteExpo 2019

Stamford, Connecticut-based Van Dyk Recycling Solutions is discussing the opening of its newly operational test center, Norwalk, Connecticut, at WasteExpo. The material test facility features a 18,000-square-foot simulation system with two processing lines capable of replicating in-plant operations and an 18,000-square-foot receiving and storage facility for material to be tested.

“When we began this project, we did so with a commitment to support our customers,” says Erik van Dijk, the company’s executive vice president. “The test facility assists machinery specification and purchasing decisions.”

Pieter van Dijk adds, “We took a very long-term view on this project. The technology center represents a unique facility that our customers will benefit from for a very long time. It is very much an investment in their success.”

The facility’s processing line boasts two separate infeed conveyors that feed different lines armed with four Tomra optical sorters, each with different technology, various screens, an elliptical separator and an air system.

“This is the largest testing facility of its kind in the world,” Pieter van Dijk says. “It’s designed to allow our customers the opportunity to test any equipment configuration on their material to precisely know the results that can be achieved.”

The facility’s 18,000-square-foot receiving and storage facility “allows customers, brand owners and others wishing to conduct tests to have their material delivered to the test center,” the company says. Once materials are on site, tests can be run to demonstrate results.

Typical tests might be to understand how sorted office paper (SOP) can be made from mixed paper; the recoverability of certain consumer packaged goods packaging from the recycling stream; to validate the purity levels of PEF fuel products; to perform glass cleanup from contaminants and many other possibilities, Van Dyk says.