Rosti China introduces PCR material into electrical goods manufacturing

Rosti China has successfully introduced Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) materials into the production of parts for a leading global electronics brand we have been collaborating with since 2017.

The transition to contract manufacturing using recycled materials has resulted in replacing over 1,400 tons of material with a sustainable alternative, helping our customer reduce their reliance on virgin plastic materials.

Embracing Recyclable Materials for a Greener Future

Our customer, a global electronics brand producing state-of-the-art air purifiers, wanted to shift to more sustainable materials, specifically Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics. This initiative fits perfectly with Rosti’s commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact through innovative injection molding capabilities and processes.

In response to this request, Rosti began a journey to test and implement PCR materials in the production process. Recognizing the potential challenges, since PCR plastics are often more susceptible to shrinkage compared to virgin materials, we carried out a thorough testing and analysis process to ensure we maintained high-quality parts that met our customer’s requirements.

Realizing the Benefits of Our Digital Innovation Lab

 Our Digital Innovation team conducted tests on the PCR materials to evaluate and understand the material’s properties.

During the testing phase, processes were optimized to ensure that the injection molding tooling was upgraded to maintain the manufacturing quality of the finished product.  Through the validation process, we made several small tooling modifications to match the dimensions, since shrinkage differs compared to virgin material.

Achieving Milestones in PCR Utilization

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

Collaboration to Achieve Customers’ Sustainability Goals

We have been working with the global electronics brand since 2017 and began the process of introducing PCR material in 2019. The client initiated the project for their spare parts, working directly with the PCR material supplier and recommending this to all contract manufacturing partners. This collaborative effort highlights 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?

We have reduced the carbon footprint of the contract manufacturing process by using PCR materials. Producing virgin materials generates considerable greenhouse gases, which we have now avoided.

Using recycled plastics has also resulted in waste reduction, so now our processes and the customer’s product contribute to the circular economy as materials are continuously recovered, recycled, and reused in future production.