Customers ask us all the time: do you recycle our shredded paper? The answer is yes! Here's a general overview of the paper recycling process:
Collection: Used paper is collected from various sources, such as households, offices, and industries. Collection methods include curbside recycling, drop-off centers, and commercial collection services.
Sorting: Collected paper is sorted into different categories based on paper types, such as newspapers, magazines, cardboard, office paper, and mixed paper. Contaminants like plastic or metal are also removed during this stage. Paper for secure document shredding is generally graded as Sorted Office Paper, or "SOP".
Shredding: The sorted paper is then shredded into small pieces to increase its surface area and make it easier to process in subsequent steps.
Pulping: The shredded paper is mixed with water to create a pulp. During this process, the ink is separated from the paper fibers. Chemicals may be added to break down the paper into a slurry of fibers.
Cleaning: The pulp undergoes a cleaning process to remove any remaining contaminants, inks, or unwanted materials. This can involve screening, centrifugal cleaning, and flotation.
Deinking: In cases where recycled paper needs to be deinked, additional processes are employed to remove any residual ink particles from the pulp.
Refining: The cleaned pulp is refined to improve its quality and strength. This may involve further beating or refining the fibers.
Papermaking: The refined pulp is then used to manufacture new paper. It goes through a papermaking machine, where it is formed into sheets and pressed to remove excess water.
Drying: The newly formed paper sheets are dried using heated rollers or air.
Finishing: The dried paper is cut and processed into rolls or sheets, depending on the intended end product. It may undergo additional treatments, such as coating or calendaring, to enhance its properties.
Packaging: The finished paper products are packaged and prepared for distribution.
By recycling paper, the environmental impact of paper production is reduced, as it conserves resources and minimizes the need for cutting down more trees. Additionally, recycling paper helps to decrease the energy and water consumption associated with traditional paper manufacturing processes.
Ready to shred and recycle your old documents and transform them into clean white paper? American Shredding can obliterate your information and create a sustainable new resource in the process.
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Ready to safeguard your sensitive information? Contact American Shredding for reliable shredding services in Houston!
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