The Komptech Equalizor combines high throughput with consistent particle sizing in a single machine. Designed as a medium-speed, single-shaft shredder, it is intended to process commercial, bulky and household waste destined for recycling or thermal recovery while producing a defined output in a single pass.
The machine draws on technology developed through Komptech’s Terminator and Crambo shredders, bringing together the strengths of slow-speed, high-torque operation with precise control over particle size. An all-electric direct drive system uses electric motors mounted on both sides of the shredding drum, allowing variable drum speeds, precision adjustment via different basket sizes, overload protection and an automatic reversing function. Together, these features are designed to produce a homogeneous output while maintaining high throughput.
According to Alexander Popko, area sales manager for Komptech Austria, the machine was developed in response to changing market expectations and customer demand for more efficient processing.
“The Equalizor was developed primarily from the engineering experience gained with the Terminator and Terminator Xtron platforms, combined with growing market demand for a highly efficient one-step shredding solution,” he said.
“In recent years, operators have increasingly looked for a machine capable of producing a defined output size in a single pass, particularly for RDF and SRF production, but also for challenging applications such as textiles, tyres and difficult industrial waste streams. That market demand was one of the key drivers behind the development of the Equalizor.”
Popko said one of the biggest engineering challenges was combining low-speed, high-torque shredding with precise and consistent particle sizing. The Equalizor addresses this through a single-shaft design equipped with pointed cutting knives and operating speeds of up to 95 rpm.
The Equalizor is available as both a stationary machine and a mobile track version, with future models planned for coarse pre-shredding and precision post-shredding applications. Depending on configuration, the machine is available with either two 132 kW or two 160 kW electric drives and can achieve throughput of up to 50 tonnes an hour under suitable operating conditions.
Features designed for productivity
A focus on reducing downtime has influenced many aspects of the Equalizor’s design. Maintenance points are positioned for easy access through large service panels, while maintenance-free electric motors and protected switchgear are intended to simplify servicing. Integrated service platforms also provide operators with improved access during routine maintenance.
The machine includes a hydraulically extending screen basket frame that allows tool-free screen basket replacement, helping reduce the time required when changing output sizes. Screen baskets are available for particle sizes ranging from 40 to 200 millimetres, while operators can also adjust drum speed and shredding settings to suit different applications.
The shredding drum measures 3,050 millimetres in length and 870 millimetres in diameter, with 42 tooth positions in a mid-cut configuration. Teeth fitted to both the drum and counter-cutter are designed to be reused multiple times. Material is fed through a two by three metre opening, supported by an automatic pre-compressor that promotes a consistent cut. On the mobile model, a hydraulic tilt hopper and stepless discharge conveyor adjustment provide additional flexibility during loading and stockpiling.
Handling challenging waste streams
Field testing demonstrated the Equalizor’s ability to process a variety of mixed and difficult materials while maintaining stable operation and consistent output.
“One of the most impressive outcomes during field testing was the Equalizor’s ability to handle highly mixed commercial and industrial waste streams with very stable operating behaviour,” said Popko.
“Materials with varying densities, moisture levels and contamination are often difficult to process consistently, yet the machine maintained high throughput rates while producing a homogeneous output fraction.
“The machine also exceeded expectations in other challenging waste streams like tyres, mattresses and pulper ropes, where irregular and difficult input materials can create feeding challenges for conventional shredders.”
He said that the testing phase confirmed the versatility of the machine. Customers were looking for equipment that can quickly adapt to changing waste streams and market requirements.
Machine operation is managed through a seven-inch high-resolution colour display with intuitive menu navigation, supported by wireless remote control, onboard diagnostics and integrated troubleshooting functions. These systems are designed to simplify operation while allowing operators to monitor machine performance during processing.
Unlike many conventional shredders, the Equalizor uses an all-electric drive system. The mobile Track version incorporates battery-powered travel, enabling the machine to move around site while retaining operational flexibility.
“The main concerns customers raise typically relate to infrastructure, mobility, and operational reliability,” said Popko. “With the e-mobile track concept, we offer the same flexibility as a diesel-powered track machine. The machine can travel up to 1.5 km using the battery pack and electric drive, making it easy to move around on site.
“The Equalizor was designed from the outset around a highly efficient electric drive concept capable of delivering strong torque and responsive load management. Intelligent drive control ensures stable machine performance even under difficult operating conditions.”
He said that in many cases, once operators experience lower maintenance requirements, reduced noise levels and overall efficiency benefits, confidence in electric drive technology increases very quickly.
The battery is recharged during normal shredding operations, and the machine retains all maintenance functions while travelling, with track speeds comparable to diesel-powered models.
Flexibility for changing requirements
The Equalizor has been designed to give operators flexibility across a range of waste streams and downstream processes. By adjusting shaft speed, shredding programs and screen basket configurations, the same can be configured for applications including tyres, waste wood, industrial waste and RDF production.
“Depending on the material and machine configuration, the Equalizor can consistently achieve output sizes in the 50 to 100 mm range, making it well suited for downstream fuel preparation and recycling processes,” said Popko.
Looking ahead, Popko believes automation and process integration will continue to influence the next generation of shredding technology.
Finally, he believes AI will play an increasingly important role. In the future, he expects machines to automatically adjust operating parameters based on the incoming feedstock, optimising throughput, energy consumption and output quality without operator intervention.
“Another key trend is the integration of feedstock and process data into overall plant KPIs,” he said. “Operators increasingly want complete transparency across their operations, linking material characteristics with production performance, energy consumption and product quality. We already offer a comprehensive solution for this with our Komptech GO software, enabling operators to monitor and optimise their entire process in real time.”
This feature appeared in the August issue of the Inside Waste website.