COLLECT SOLAR ENERGY
Sunlight is collected by the shipping container’s solar panel roof structure. When sunlight hits the solar panel array, photons (particles of energy) are converted into electrons. As electrons pass through the cells of the solar panels, they’re converted into direct current (DC) electricity.
2. BATTERY STORAGE
Any excess energy collected by our solar panels but not immediately used in our manufacturing process is stored in our battery bank for use when the sun is not shining.
3. CLEAN RECYCLED PLASTIC
We collect post-consumer plastics, cut them open, and give them a quick wash to remove any residue.
4. SHRED RECYCLED PLASTIC
The electricity collected by the panels is sent to an inverter inside the MicroFactory that converts it into alternating current (AC) power. The AC power runs to our shredder. The cleaned plastic is put into the hopper of the solar-powered shredder and broken down into plastic flakes.
5. WEIGH PLASTIC FLAKES
Depending the color globe variation we are making, we weigh the proper ratio of recycled plastic flakes. The proper ratio of plastic was determined though several tests, and we are still experimenting with new combinations to achieve different product attributes!
6. LOAD FLAKES INTO MOLD
We pour the weighted plastic flake mixture into the product mold clamped to center of the Rotomold Machine. The two parts of the mold are then securely clamped together. Our molds contain strategically placed heaters that cycle heat when activated.
7. SOLAR POWERED ROTOMOLD
The machine is activated, causing the mold to rotate on two axes and the heat cycle to start. As the plastic within melts, it coats the interior of the mold. Thanks to our innovative technology, rather than occurring in a gigantic oven, we can heat just the mold, saving enormous amounts of energy. After a few minutes, the heat is turned off, and as the mold cools the plastic within solidifies.
8. FINAL PRODUCT
As the plastic cools, a hollow product with a uniform shell is formed. We then stop the rotation and enter the Rotomolding room. The mold is opened and the final product is revealed.
