CK International MRF Baling Solutions: High-Density Twin Ram Balers at Amgen Cymru
When plant builders install one of the UK’s largest MRF plants, they need high-quality equipment and reliable partners. Any failure could impact their reputation. In 2019, Blue Machinery (Southern) Ltd secured a multi-million-pound project for a new MRF plant at Amgen Cymru in Wales. While several leading manufacturers supplied equipment, Blue chose CK International for the baling solutions.
Collaborating from the Design Phase
CK International worked closely with Blue Machinery from the earliest design stages. This ensured that the balers integrated seamlessly with the plant layout. Material flows from bunkers into balers via large Westeria conveyors. CK International engineers helped design the plant to recirculate waste when necessary, ensuring full bales every time.
The team decided that two CKTR82 Twin Ram balers would be the best fit. One baler handles high throughput independently, preventing bottlenecks in the plant. CK International also repositioned power packs to optimise space, showing their commitment to custom MRF baling solutions.
Choosing the Right Baling Equipment
Previously, Amgen Cymru used two channel press balers. However, these machines could not achieve the required bale density or handle seven different materials efficiently. The CKTR82 Twin Ram balers provide high-density mill-size bales, maximise shipping payloads, and allow quick material changeover without contamination.
The older channel press balers were decommissioned and relocated to another Amgen site, extending their service life.
Delivering on Throughput and Reliability
A key project requirement was an 8T/hr throughput per baler. CK International committed to this figure and delivered as promised. The equipment’s reliability minimized downtime, while fast response and excellent backup service gave Blue Machinery confidence in the partnership.
Integrating Data Management
This high-tech MRF plant required advanced control systems. CK International sent a programmer to integrate the balers with the SCADA system. Using CK International’s Data Management System, Amgen’s managers can:
Track daily, monthly, and annual bale counts
Monitor material types baled
Analyse downtime and efficiency
Access reports on any device
This integration allows the customer to make data-driven decisions for future operations.
Results and Customer Feedback
Three years on, the twin ram balers continue to perform at 8T/hr. Any issues receive a fast response from CK engineers.
Tom Rutherford from Blue Machinery commented:
“CK International’s expertise and support throughout this project were exceptional. Their baling solutions and advice benefited both our team and the customer. We wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again.”
Amgen’s Operations Manager, Ian McAlister, added:
“The new MRF has doubled our processing capacity to 65,000 tonnes per year and improved bale density significantly. CK International’s baling solutions allowed us to optimise transport loads and maximise efficiency.”
For more information on this project, visit: https://blue-group.com/studies/blue-southern-secure-multi-million-pound-deal-for-mrf-plant-at-amgen-cymru/