Rosti introduces PCR material into electrical goods manufacturing

Rosti Group AB has successfully introduced Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) materials into the production of parts for a leading global Electronic Goods brand who Rosti has been collaborating with since 2017.

The transition to contract manufacturing using recycled materials has resulted in replacing over 1,400 tonnes of material to a sustainable alternative, supporting Rosti customers to reduce their reliance on virgin plastic materials.

Embracing Recyclable Materials for a Greener Future
Rosti customer, a global electrical goods brand, who produces state-of-the-art air purifiers, wanted a transition to more sustainable materials, specifically Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics. This initiative aligns perfectly with Rosti’s commitment to sustainability and reducing the impact on the environment through innovative injection molding capabilities and processes.
Responding to this request, Rosti embarked on a journey to test and implement the use of PCR materials in the production processes. Recognising the potential challenges, given that PCR plastics are often susceptible to shrinkage compared to virgin materials, Rosti conducted a thorough testing and analysis process to ensure the company maintained high-quality parts that met the customer’s requirements.

Realising the benefits of Rosti Digital Innovation Lab
Rosti Digital Innovation team conducted tests on the PCR materials to evaluate and understand the material’s properties. During the testing phase, processes were optimised to ensure that the injection molding tooling was upgraded to maintain manufacturing quality of the finished product. Through the validation process Rosti specialists made several small modifications in tooling to match the dimensions, since the shrinkage is different compared to virgin material.

Achieving Milestones in PCR Utilisation
Since 2019, Rosti has successfully replaced over 1,400 tons of virgin material with PCR material into the production of plastic frames for air purifier filters. This milestone is a testament to Rosti’s ability to innovate and adapt, ensuring that its sustainability goals align seamlessly with Rosti customer’s needs.

Collaboration to achieve Customers Sustainability Goals
Rosti has been working with the global electrical goods brand since 2017 and started the process of introducing PCR material in 2019. The client instigated the project for their spare parts, liaising directly with the PCR material supplier and recommending this to all contract manufacturing partners. This collaborative effort underscores the client’s commitment to sustainability and sets a precedent for industry-wide adoption of eco-friendly practices

What are the benefits of using PCR materials?
Rosti has reduced the carbon footprint of the contract manufacturing process by using PCR materials. The manufacture of virgin materials generates considerable greenhouse gases which has now been avoided. Using recycled plastics has also resulted in waste reduction, and as a result, Rosti processes and the customers product now contributes to the circular economy as materials will continuously be recovered, recycled and reused in future production.