Australian recycling specialist, iQRenew, recently completed an extensive upgrade of its Wyong facility, with the majority of the facility’s existing gearboxes and ancillary equipment being provided by Bonfiglioli.
The upgrade enables the company to cut a new trail in the industrial recycling landscape by transforming previously unusable glass waste into a valuable, engineered product on-site.
According to Jack Gallagher, mechanical engineer and fitter at iQRenew, this recycling centre is challenging long-held perceptions of recovered glass and its potential value for the market, making the upgrades especially significant.
The Wyong site – known internally as the ‘Virtual Quarry’ – has been designed to increase processing capability while creating a more efficient and advanced recycling operation capable of meeting growing industry demand.
“Traditionally, mixed kerbside glass contamination created challenges because much of the material could not easily be converted back into bottles,” he explained.
“Instead of simply crushing glass and sending it elsewhere, we are focused on creating a reusable manufactured resource that supports circular economy initiatives and sustainable industry practices.”
Gallagher says this multi-stage process involving separation, washing, impact processing, drying, and precision grading required specialised equipment, and the company turned to Bonfiglioli for its quality and reliable solutions.
“The upgrade project required a wide range of gearboxes across different applications, from low torque high speed systems through to heavy duty, high torque machinery,” said Gallagher.
“Bonfiglioli’s robust design allows them to operate effectively in demanding conditions, while maintaining smooth and quiet operation. The flexibility of the units, including bolt on flange configurations, has also made maintenance and servicing more efficient across the plant.
“They have consistently worked closely with our team to ensure the correct components and specifications were selected for each application, while providing ongoing support whenever required.
“Having reliable suppliers who understand both operational requirements and long-term project goals is extremely important in an operation like Wyong.”
According to Alex Kolc, NSW sales engineer at Bonfiglioli, the Wyong recycling centre already had standard-built Bonfiglioli units installed – selected for their reliability, availability and longevity, and the centre upgrades provided a new opportunity for the Bonfiglioli team to support iQRenew in resolving equipment challenges.
“Bonfiglioli is always supporting customers through spare parts, upgrades, aftermarket services and building relationships through contact – and this project with iQRenew was no exception,” he added.
Looking ahead, Gallagher is excited about the continued optimisation and development of the Wyong facility.
“With growing industry focus on sustainability and resource recovery across Australia, the Wyong centre is well-positioned to become an increasingly important part of the country’s recycling and manufacturing future. We are proud to have strong partners like Bonfiglioli supporting that journey,” he concluded.
