Bonfiglioli solutions power iQRenew’s Wyong facility upgrades

Australian recycling specialist, iQRenew, recently completed an extensive upgrade of its Wyong facility, enabling the company to cut a new trail in the industrial recycling landscape by transforming previously unusable glass waste into a valuable, engineered product on-site.

According to iQRenew Mechanical Engineer and Fitter, Jack Gallagher, this recycling centre is challenging long-held perceptions of recovered glass and its potential value for the market, making the upgrades especially significant.

To support the project, iQRenew partnered with Bonfiglioli, which had supplied the majority of the facility's existing gearboxes and ancillary equipment.

Transforming unusable waste into valuable industry resources

Jack explains how the Wyong site – known internally as the ‘Virtual Quarry’ - has been designed to increase processing capability while creating a more efficient and advanced recycling operation capable of meeting growing industry demand. “Traditionally, mixed kerbside glass contamination created challenges because much of the material could not easily be converted back into bottles. Instead of simply crushing glass and sending it elsewhere, we are focused on creating a reusable manufactured resource that supports circular economy initiatives and sustainable industry practices”.

This is a multi-stage process involving separation, washing, impact processing, drying, and precision grading which all require specialised equipment. “The upgrade project required a wide range of gearboxes across different applications, from low torque high speed systems through to heavy duty, high torque machinery,” says Jack, explaining why the company turned to Bonfiglioli for quality and reliable solutions.

According to Alex Kolc, Bonfiglioli NSW Sales Engineer, the Wyong recycling centre already had standard-built Bonfiglioli units installed – selected for their reliability, availability and longevity. The centre upgrades provided a new opportunity for the Bonfiglioli team to support iQRenew in resolving equipment challenges. “Bonfiglioli is always supporting customers through spare parts, upgrades, aftermarket services and building relationships through contact – and this project with iQRenew was no exception”.

A shared vision for excellence

Jack reiterates that the Bonfiglioli gearboxes have delivered the reliability and performance required for the high throughput recycling operation at Wyong. “Their robust design allows them to operate effectively in demanding conditions while maintaining smooth and quiet operation. The flexibility of the units, including bolt on flange configurations, has also made maintenance and servicing more efficient across the plant,” he says.

Elaborating on the technical support provided by the Bonfiglioli team, Jack says: “They have consistently worked closely with our team to ensure the correct components and specifications were selected for each application while providing ongoing support whenever required. Having reliable suppliers who understand both operational requirements and long-term project goals is extremely important in an operation like Wyong”.

Looking ahead, Jack is excited about the continued optimisation and development of the Wyong facility. “With growing industry focus on sustainability and resource recovery across Australia, the Wyong centre is well-positioned to become an increasingly important part of the country’s recycling and manufacturing future. We are proud to have strong partners like Bonfiglioli supporting that journey,” he concludes.