5 Questions Metal Recyclers Should Answer Before Buying a Baler

Scrap metal baling equipment can offer recyclers numerous benefits, such as getting full value from the available storage space. Such advantages can only be enjoyed when the metal recycler acquires the right baler for his or her needs. This article discusses some key questions that recyclers should ask themselves to select the best baler.

What are the volume and frequency expected?

You need to estimate how much scrap metal you will be baling at any given time. It is also helpful to know how often such baling operations will be conducted. This information will help you to select the appropriate equipment size and capacity. For example, you may need a very powerful baler if you expect to use it several times each day.

What are the desired bale sizes?

It is also important for you to think about the size of the bales that you wish to create. This information can be got from the mills that you supply that scrap metal. Get a baler that is capable of creating bales in the sizes that your processing facility or clients require.

How much space is available?

Balers require varying amounts of vertical and horizontal space. You should, therefore, think about the ceiling height at your facility as you go shopping for a baler. The horizontal space needed when installing the baler should also be factored into the selection criteria so that you don't end up with a machine that cannot fit into your facilities.

What voltage do you have?

The power requirements of balers differ from one machine to another, so you need to consider the electrical voltage that is available at your facility. It would be unwise for you to buy a baler that requires three-phase power when your location only has single-phase power.

What options would be ideal?

Different manufacturers design balers with a variety of options to make that equipment easy to use. Consider your operations and select the desired options that would ease your work. For example, would filters make it easier for you to sort the scrap before baling it? Do you need wire guides for the baler? Would a remote control system for the baler be useful to you? Narrow down your baler options to the machines that can accommodate the accessories that you desire.

As such, the cost of the baler should only be considered once all the functional issues have been decided upon. It will then help you to select from a variety of baler models that can address your needs.