Transparent
Top image

PET Bottles, how to compact & recycle

Single-use PET bottles have a significant commodity value if correctly handled. Compacting and minimizing the volume is key to unlocking their recycling potential.

To unlock the recycling potential of PET bottles, it is key to handle the bottles the correct way, minimizing the volume through compaction is a key part of this process.

Optimize handling, minimize air

Minimizing the volume of air in PET bottles is crucial for effective recycling and sustainable practices. One of the key challenges in achieving this is removing the air inside the bottles, which requires strong compacting equipment that can forcefully puncture the bottles and ensure they are tightly compacted. Mil-tek offers a range of solutions for crushing PET bottles.

More than just PET plastic

While PET plastic is commonly associated with beverage bottles, a typical PET bottle actually consists of three different types of plastic:

  • HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Used for the rigid bottle cap, providing durability and a secure seal.
  • LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) – Found in the soft plastic label, offering flexibility and ease of application.
  • PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – Makes up the main body of the bottle, ensuring lightweight strength and transparency.

All three of these plastic types are fully recyclable. By compacting bottles before disposal – which can be done in e.g. an E519 PET baler – the different plastic components can be efficiently processed, enhancing recyclability and reducing waste. This simple action helps maximize resource recovery and supports a more sustainable waste management system.

part of a bale of PET bottles

The importance of compacting PET bottles

Compacting PET bottles plays a crucial role in preparing the material for efficient recycling. This simple yet effective process significantly improves waste management by optimizing storage, transportation, and the recycling process itself.

When PET bottles are compacted:

  • Air is removed – Reducing the volume of the bottles and making them more manageable for storage and transport.
  • The plastic’s molded memory is destroyed – Preventing bottles from regaining their original shape, which ensures they remain compact and stable.
  • Storage efficiency is improved – As compacted bottles take up far less space compared to loose bottles, allowing for more efficient collection and handling.
close up of a PET bottle neck

The bole of balers in PET bottles recycling

Once compacted, PET bottles can be stored in a baler, where hundreds of bottles are compressed into dense, manageable bales. These bales are then easily transported to recycling facilities, minimizing logistical costs and maximizing recycling efficiency.

By compacting PET bottles before disposal, businesses and individuals contribute to a more sustainable recycling system, reducing waste volume and promoting responsible resource management.

baler with compacted pet bottles

Do you have more questions?

Let us help you to find the answers to how your business can save time, space and money by handling your waste more efficiently.

Fill out the form and one of our local representatives will reach out to help.

close up of a baler, symbolizing one of several segments

Products

Browse the range of waste minimizing balers and compactors

Man in a kitchen, symbolizing one of several segments

Segments

Mil-tek solutions are adaptable to all business sectors, including yours