Finning UK & Ireland has supplied an LPG generator set (genset) to Polymer Matters, a recycling company based in Omagh, Northern Ireland.
The recycling plant, which specialises in producing high quality, food grade recycled resin for the dairy industry, required a reliable power source that could operate effectively without a mains gas connection. The Finning solution is powering the entire site, including lighting, pumps and the crucial washing system used to process recycled materials.
The installation of the Cat CG170B-20 LPG generator set – a 1.8MW unit – is one of the first LPG gensets that Finning has supplied. By implementing this power solution, Polymer Matters can continue its work recycling plastic milk bottles, which are processed for new plastic packaging – contributing to the circular economy.
Martin Byrne, Sales Manager – Power Solutions at Finning UK & Ireland, said, “Providing the right power solution for specific customer requirements is crucial for operational efficiency. With Polymer Matters needing to operate without mains gas, the CG170B-20 LPG genset offered the ideal solution. The unit delivers consistent power across Polymer Matters’ entire operation, enabling them to maintain productivity. This installation represents an important step in our work because it means we can supply a wide range of gensets running on different fuels, depending on our customers’ needs.”
The CG170B-20 genset offers high performance with up to 45% electrical efficiency and can deliver up to 2,300 kWel of power output. Its compact design also enables companies like Polymer Matters to utilise space efficiently while maintaining high output.
“The real-world benefits for Polymer Matters go beyond just power generation,” adds Byrne. “The generator features optimised lubrication consumption of approximately 0.15g/kWh, which can save up to 3,000 litres of lube oil per year compared to comparable gensets. Combined with long maintenance intervals of up to 80,000 hours, this significantly reduces operational costs and downtime, which is of course an important consideration for all customers. This particular genset can also run on a different fuel, if desired.”
The genset is available as a 2.3-megawatt unit which can also run on natural gas, demonstrating the engine’s robust design and adaptability across different applications. This flexibility means customers requiring natural gas can also utilise the same reliable genset technology, allowing Finning to tailor power solutions to specific operational needs.
The partnership builds on an established relationship between the two companies, with Polymer Matters also signing a 10-year maintenance agreement with Finning. The agreement helps customers like Polymer Matters manage equipment costs and ensure long-term reliability, with options for fixed costs, flexible payments, and coverage for various components. This comprehensive support package also provides peace of mind for the recycling operation.
