Development of a Method for Shredder Characterisation and Dynamic Control of the Output Material Stream

Abstract

This work deals with the basis for the development of a method for the characterisation of shredders in the field of waste treatment. Therefore, many parameters of shredders have to be considered. In this work, the throughput and its inconsistency come into focus. The fluctuating mass and volume flow rates often cause problems for waste treatment plants. Mixed waste generates a fluctuating throughput despite continuous feeding, often starting at the first machine, the shredder. Dynamic control of the shredder is seen as a solution. By implementing a control loop at the shredder, fluctuations in output are to be minimised, and the idea is that subsequent machines will thus be ideally fed. Autocorrelation of the data of an output volume flow of the shredder exists, which indicates that a dynamic output feedback control can work; therefore, an attempt was made to control the shredder. However, the first control attempt was probably too rudimentary, and implementing a dynamic control of the shredder did not yet improve throughput fluctuations. Nevertheless, the work provides indications and shows potential for further research approaches on the control-based improvement of shredders' throughput continuity.