Make a recycling bin
HDPE
PP
SHEETPRESS
Making a plastic recycling bin with recycled plastic panels. This is an easier method with standard aluminum tubes.
Browse Files
Table of Contents
-
Prepare material according to the size and design of the recycling bin.
In our case:
- 30x30 alumimum tube 935mm x8
- 30x30 alumimum tube 316mm x8
- 30x30 alumimum tube 300mm x12
- Corner fixing clips x50
- Corner fixing plate x50
- legs x8
-
Assemble the frame, with the corner fixing clips and avoiding the corners for mounting the panels afterward.
-
After the frame is done, fix the panel onto the frame with screws and corner fixing plate.
We use 12mm thick PP sheets and use CNC milling to cut into the right shapes.
-
Add legs to the bottom of the bin for uneven floor.
Lastly, assemble the doors with door hinges, and add locks or magnets to keep them close.
Hardware
- 30×30mm aluminum tubes (various lengths)
- Polypropylene sheets (12mm thick)
- Corner fixing clips and plates (x100 total)
- Adjustable legs (x8)
- Door hinges and magnetic locks
Tools
- CNC milling machine (for panel shaping)
- Electric screwdriver/drill
- Measuring tape
- Wrench set
- Level tool
Software
- CAD software (for panel design)
- CAM software (for CNC programming)
- Project planning templates
All materials listed are standard construction components available at Hong Kong hardware stores like Hung Fai Tong or FixShop. CNC services can be sourced from local prototyping workshops like ProtoTech HK.
References
Articles
- The Plastic Recycling Process - Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR)
- Design for Recycling Guidelines - RecyClass
- How To: DIY Pantry Recycling Center Makeover - ManMadeDIY
- DeepStream Designs’ Sustainable Recycling Bins
- CNC Machining Techniques for Polypropylene Material
- Custom Polypropylene Machining Considerations
YouTube
Open-source Designs
- $50 Plastic Shredder / Grinder / Recycler - Instructables
- 3Form Recycling Bin Design - Sustainable Design