This story appeared in the Fall 2017 edition of Plastics Recycling magazine.

Heavy-Duty Modular Split-A-Part: This line of shredders from Republic Machine comes in 100-horsepower to 300-horsepower models, with rotor diameters of 15 inches and 20 inches and four cutting widths ranging from 42 inches to 72 inches. It features an overtorque limiting clutch assembly and offers easy access for cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, shredders in this line are equipped with a single-piece solid forged rotor and an adjustable anvil for maintaining tight gap tolerances. They also include bolt-in replaceable tool holders and reversible counter knives that can be resharpened.

What's new? An even heavier-duty, 300-horsepower version, designed for a recycler that handles especially contaminated materials, including bags, baled film and strapping. To create the more robust shredder, which began shipping earlier this year, Republic Machine says it redesigned its 20-inch rotor and beefed up the company's patented Zoidal cutting system, which is shown at right, using a unique metallurgy for the larger blades and holder.

Benefits: Greater toughness. The custom 300-horsepower Heavy-Duty Modular Split-A-Part machine has been built to withstand damage from repeated contact with metal contaminants.

Republic Machine, Louisville, Kentucky, 502-637-6778, www.republicmachine.com