PORTABLE RECYCLABLE PLASTIC MATERIALS MOLDING MACHINE 1

Introduction

Plastic waste is one of the biggest issues facing the planet today, with its impact

stretching far and wide. It can be found polluting the tallest mountains to the deepest ocean

and can affect human health. The plastic waste problem has been aggravated in recent

decades as the consumption of this versatile material has continued to rise.

Additionally, plastic waste management is considered a pressing global issue

calling for an immediate response from the government and its people. The Philippines has

a continuously rising amount of waste and is expected to further increase in the succeeding

years. As reviewed, associated problems with plastic waste management in the country

include an increasing amount of solid waste, weak law implementation, scarcity of sanitary

landfills, and improper disposal.

As stated by the World Bank (2004), in the Philippines today, the annual solid waste

generation rate is about 6,700 MT, which translates to approximately 0.3 - 0.5 kg daily of

garbage for each Filipino, which the World Bank estimates to grow by 40 percent by the

end of the decade. Much of this is concentrated in the urban areas where up to 44 percent

of this waste is recyclable. According to the Philippine Ecological Solid Waste

Management Act of 2000, defines recycling as “the treating of used or waste materials

through a process of making them sustainable for beneficial use and for other purposes,

and includes any process by which solid waste materials are transformed into new products

in such a manner that the original products may lose their identity…” It is differentiated

from Reuse in which there is no alteration of the physical or chemical characteristics of the

recovered material.

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Though not yet quite a pervasive practice, organized recycling in the Philippines

has picked up in recent years. According to the National Solid Waste Management

Commission (NSWMC), recycling rates have been increasing, particularly in Metro

Manila, from 6% in 1997; 13% in 2000; and 28% in 2006 (Andin; NSWMC, 2007).

One of the reasons for recycling is that the government has finally laid down a clear

policy on solid waste management through the Republic Act 9003. This act essentially

upgraded the cleanliness and anti–littering ordinances into a more cohesive national law to

deal with the growing garbage crisis in the country. It defined a 3R Policy, Framework and

Strategy for a systematic, comprehensive, and ecological solid waste management program

based on the waste management hierarchy which, in a nutshell, can be described as: Waste

Avoidance, Reduction, Reuse, Recycling, Treatment and Disposal (Andin; NSWMC,

2007).

The 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse, recycle are strategies for dealing with generated waste,

to reduce the volume that is needlessly thrown away, and which takes up space in landfills.

A sustainable system, however, assumes that waste avoidance and reduction is priority

before the 3Rs. In the Philippines, more headway is being achieved with the 3Rs than with

waste avoidance since the latter requires an almost monumental shift in paradigm of the

Filipino society and of the industry. While not ideal, this is welcome nonetheless, as

recycling brings many benefits.

On the other hand, municipal solid waste from households is collected by garbage

trucks either owned or contracted by the LGU through a bidding process. Waste is either

disposed of in the landfills or brought to waste facilities where they may be further sorted

manually so that recyclables in the waste stream can be temporarily stored for eventual sale

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to private recyclers or for further processing or re- use. The most common practice is house-

to-house collection and/or curbside collection of waste placed in plastic bags or bins

provided by the residents. Ironically, RA 9003 has resulted in a negative impact on the

organized waste picker groups, due to reduced volume of recyclables that reach the landfill

and thus lowered their income too.

Upon reading related literature and related studies, the researcher finds out that

mostly the recyclable plastic materials are disposed in the landfills and not segregate

properly, that’s why they come up with the idea that they should turn the recyclable plastic

materials into something useful using molding machine specifically they want to turn the

recyclable plastic materials into plastic bushing.

According to Bushing MFG (2023) plastic bushings are cylindrical pieces of

material used in machines and other mechanical components to reduce friction between

two moving parts by providing a cushioning surface for them to move against each other.

Plastics have long been valued due to the lightweight yet strong properties that make them

ideal for many applications. In terms of machine and engineering, plastic bushing offers

more flexibility than metal ones, allowing engineers more freedom when designing

prototypes and products. Furthermore, plastics can be easily molded into custom shapes

while also being resistant to corrosion caused by environmental elements like moisture or

heat.

Meanwhile, Bushing MFG (2023) stated that industries have begun to recognize

the value of plastic bushing in their systems. They are typically employed for applications

such as noise control, insulation, and vibration dampening. Plastic bushings can also be

used on a large scale within industrial machines which require accurate positioning with

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minimal wear and tear. Furthermore, they provide greater flexibility than metal bushing

parts due to their lighter weight, making them easier to install and maintain.

Plastic bushings offer superior performance when compared to traditional metal

components; they endure less corrosion and abrasion over time resulting in longer lifespans

even under extreme conditions. Additionally, because of their lightweight construction,

they reduce labor costs associated with installation and replacement processes (MFG,

2020).

Jason Molding, (2023) stated in his study that recycled plastic molding is a

manufacturing process that utilizes recycled plastics as the raw material for producing

plastic products. It involves melting down plastic waste, injecting it into a mold, and

allowing it to cool and solidify into the desired shape. This method not only reduces the

amount of plastic waste but also helps to minimize the carbon footprint associated with

traditional manufacturing processes. This approach offers a sustainable alternative for

producing a wide range of products by harnessing the potential of recycled plastics. This

manufacturing process offers numerous benefits for the environment and businesses by

repurposing plastic waste and reducing reliance on virgin materials.

Recycled plastic molding involves the utilization of various types of recycled

plastics, each with their unique properties and characteristics. Among the commonly

recycled plastics are PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is widely used in beverage

containers; HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), commonly found in packaging and

containers for household products; and PP (Polypropylene), a versatile plastic used in

various applications, including packaging, textiles, and automotive components. The

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choice of recycled plastic depends on the desired properties of the final product and the

specific requirements of the manufacturing process (Steve Yang, 2023).

As stated by Selvaraj et al. (2022) injection molding is a manufacturing process in

which molten material is injected into a mold to produce parts. Different materials can be

molded into desired shapes using injection molding. Some widely used materials are

polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, polyamide, polyester, and acrylic.

In addition to that, Selvaraj et al. (2022) stated in his study that the machine injects

the pressure onto the mold cavity that fills and solidifies the molten plastic to produce a

product. A whole injection molding process consists of three stages that are filling, post

filling, and mold opening. Some of the interesting properties of plastic are as follows:

transparency, ability to make complex sizes and shapes quickly, ability to integrate with

other materials easily with an excellent thermal and electrical insulator, lightweight, and

anticorrosion.

However, the effects of plastic pollution are shocking, and the need for sustainable

solutions is urgent. As we strive to reduce our impact on the planet, this research focuses

on developing recyclable plastic materials molding machines.

Relating it with another study, AEPW (2021), said that plastics boast a unique and

useful set of properties. They are polymers, long chains of molecules made from repeating

links called monomers, often produced from chemicals like petroleum. Its molecular

structure can be engineered to present different characteristics—to be flexible or hard,

transparent or opaque. They are durable, strong, lightweight, water resistant, and relatively

easy and inexpensive to manufacture. Most modern plastics are made from fossil fuels like

natural gas or petroleum; but as new technology emerges, plastics are also being produced

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from renewable materials like corn or cotton. There are thousands of patented plastics

spanning countless sectors, all with unique attributes that make them fit for purpose.

Replacing plastic with other materials is neither simple nor straightforward, mainly

due to the challenge of finding an alternative that combines all the most desirable plastic

properties. Biodegradable alternatives—such as special plastics, paper, or cardboard—may

well have a higher greenhouse footprint because of the amount of water or natural resources

consumed in their production.

According to data from the (World Bank, 2018), humans generate 2 billion tons of

waste per year, implying that each person can generate up to 1.2 kilograms of waste per

day and if current trends continue, this figure could rise to 2.2 billion tons by 2025, reaching

3.4 billion tons by the end of 2050. For comparison, the world’s population currently sits

at about 7.9 billion (according to the most recent UN estimates elaborated by world meter)

which essentially translates to a horrific fact that there would possibly be 3 tons of waste

for every human being every year.

According to United Nations Statistics (2019) said that the world today is

increasingly becoming urbanized. Unplanned urban sprawl is the major cause of ghettos

and slums, resulting in the uncontrolled generation of waste because of inadequate and/or

overburdened basic infrastructure like waste collection, sanitation systems, transport and

worsening air pollution.

On a similar note, De Tuesta et al. (2021) said that increasing the economic

attractiveness of plastic waste reusing/recycling is expected to contribute towards reducing

their input in the environment. It was found that most of the studies report the utilization

of plastic waste (75%); and that the most representative materials obtained are carbon

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nanotubes (CNTs; 47.1% of the studies under evaluation), activated carbon (ACs; 22.2%)

and 2D graphene-based materials (9.2%). Nevertheless, despite already being the third

most significant group of carbon materials produced from plastic waste, none of the 12

review articles available in literature is fully devoted to the conversion of plastic waste into

2D graphene-based materials.

As stated by Singh et al. (2017), all kinds of metals and polymers can be recycled

thanks to industrial technical developments. Three approaches to plastic recycling have

been proposed by certain researchers. The first step is to separate plastic garbage

mechanically so that it can be used again. The second approach consists of two additional

components: pyrolysis for fuel or polymer feed stock, and energy recovery by incineration.

The third approach involves carrying the polymer all the way to the point of bio-

degradation, albeit this greatly varies depending on the type and environmental

circumstances. This leads to the conclusion that plastics constitute a major source of

industrial and municipal trash.

However, the focus of this study is to find out if recyclable plastic materials can

make plastic bushing using a molding machine. This research also focuses on developing

recyclable plastic materials molding machines.

Theoretical Framework

Every day, a tremendous amount of plastic is wasted around the world, and the

waste accumulates, damaging every location and ecosystem. Wasted plastics can be

recycled as a viable option for fresh raw material production.

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As studied by Mengistu et al. (2019) in their work about the development of hand

operated injection molding machine for manufacturing recycled plastic articles. It focuses

on small-scale, low-cost manufacturing and maintenance on fabrication of manual plastic

IMM that doesn’t require skilled workers. Compressing the plastic material in a heating

chamber (barrel) with the assistance of plunger and induction coil is the main principle

used for HPIMM to convert plastic polymer into molten state. Then in predetermined

quality, the plastic polymer is forced under pressure through the nozzle into the cast. After

the process is complete, the final product is acquired from the die. This work contributes

to the creation of small plastic items using a manually controlled injection molding

machine and an induction coil to transform solid plastic into melted plastic.

The word plastic is derived from the Greek word plastics, which meaning "able to

be shaped or molded by heat." The name 'polymers' refers to all plastic materials, which

are organic, carbon-based substances with molecules linked together in long chain patterns.

There are two types of plastics: thermoplastics and thermosets. When heated, thermosets

undergo a chemical reaction and cannot be re-softened. Once chilled, the thermoplastics

can be crushed and reheated repeatedly. Injection molding commonly uses thermoplastic

polymers like PE, PP, PS, PVC, and nylon (Mengistu et al., 2019).

The study regarding plastic polymers will help the researchers to create with their

study about developing recyclable plastic materials molding machines that can make

plastic bushing as product using recyclable plastic materials. That will use semi-automated

molding machine that uses push-button to operate the machine instead of traditional hand-

operated molding machine. With this operation the work will be easier and lighter.

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The circular economy idea, which is a model of production and consumption that

keeps goods and materials in circulation rather than letting them go to waste, will serve as

the foundation for this study. Extending product life cycles and avoiding the need to extract

new raw materials are the objectives.

Objectives of the Study

This research aims to develop recyclable plastic materials molding machines with

the goal of finding out if plastic containers can make plastic bushing using molding

machine.

Specifically, this research sought to achieve the following objectives:

1. To enable the processing of recyclable plastic materials into new products or

components.

2. To make the oil plastic containers into a plastic motorcycle swing arm bushing

using recyclable plastic materials molding machine.

3. Waste Reduction, by converting recycled plastics into new products, these

machines contribute to waste reduction and promote a circular economy model

where materials are reused and recycled rather than disposed of after single use.

4. Determine the cost effectiveness by promoting the sustainability and durability of

the machine.

5. Design a user-friendly portable machine to meet the standard quality of the

manufacturer and transportability of the machine.

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Significance of the Study

The development of a portable recyclable plastic material molding machine is

among the most practical innovations in waste utilization and machine fabrication. The

study involves a portable design of a machine whose design integrates functionality,

durability, and efficiency. The study aims to provide practical and educational benefits for

the following:

Students of BSIT Major in Automotive Technology. This study will enhance the

knowledge and technical skills of the Students of Bachelor of Science in Industrial

Technology Major in Automotive Technology, for instance, in designing, operating, and

fabricating a portable recyclable plastic material molding machine. The study will provide

practical insights and ideas from the fabrication processes and technical background.

Motorcycle Shops. Motorcycle Shops will benefit from the portable design, which allows

easier relocation, installation, and operation within limited workspace areas. The machine

will promote efficiency, convenience, and encourage versatile features that are slightly

adaptable, contributing to the efficient appearance of the shop’s environment and

operation.

Small Scale Entrepreneurs. The study will apply the principles of art while designing for

Small Scale Entrepreneurs, for instance, economic balance. The entrepreneur will gain

insights into processing recyclable plastic materials into molded products. The study will

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emphasize the machine’s molding capability since it is efficient, and its output falls directly

in the entrepreneurs’ center of focus.

Local Communities. The portable molding machine will help local communities manage

waste more efficiently and promote recycling. Since plastic waste is portable and simple

to use and find, communities can turn it into useful products that promote environmental

awareness and cleaner surroundings. The machine enables a full material cycle, from

collection to the molded product.

Environmental Significance. The portable molding machine promotes environmental

sustainability and coordination by facilitating the reuse of plastic materials. The project

will curve paths to indicate material flow and eco-friendliness and a reasonable amount of

recycled resources for processing. It helps reduce plastic waste, supports responsible

resource management, and provides a practical example of lining technology with eco-

friendly practices.

Future Researchers. Future Researchers will use this study as a basis for further

improvement in machine design, performance, and efficiency. The documentation and

findings will provide a foundation for innovation and the development of more advanced

recyclable plastic molding equipment.

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Scope and Delimitation

This study will focus on the development of a portable recyclable plastic material

molding machine intended for producing plastic bushings. The recyclable plastic materials

to be used will consist specifically of used oil plastic containers collected from motorcycle

shops in Barangay Sta. Ines, Bacolor, Pampanga. These materials will serve as the primary

input for the molding process.

This study will be limited to determining whether used oil plastic containers can be

processed and molded into plastic bushings using the developed machine. It will not cover

large-scale production, commercial application, or the use of other types of plastic

materials beyond those specified in this research.

Definition of Terms

To ensure clarity, the subsequent words are defined as utilized in this study:

Molding Machine. Weimin et al. (2019) indicate that molding machines, over time, have

become indispensable in the manufacturing industry. These machines were created to mold

raw materials into required shapes of high precision and efficiency. These molding

machines come in various setups, including batch and carousel molding. These machines

incorporate various molds, cooling and heating systems, as well as electronic controls to

improve the molding process as a whole. These machines improve efficiency in molding

by minimizing human involvement in the process while still maintaining high-quality

standards. Additionally, these machines allow various manufacturing needs due to their

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high levels of flexibility, thus providing various manufacturing needs. This is significant

in ensuring that various manufacturing processes achieve high-quality results.

Motorcycle. Ospina-Mateus & Jimenez (2019) indicate that motorcycles have become

essential in daily activities due to their functionality in various economic activities such as

transportation. Additionally, these devices provide high levels of portability due to their

small sizes as well as their efficiency in conserving resources such as fuel. However, these

devices come with high risks of accidents due to their instability as well as the need to have

high levels of skills in order to operate these devices effectively. This study focuses on

developing a modified device that is likely to improve functionality as well as efficiency

in its operations. The device is designed to be portable by relocating various components

such as switches as well as reducing the amount of metal and wood used in making these

devices. Additionally, it is designed to incorporate a spin dryer timer as well as a blower.

Portable. According to the Cambridge English Dictionary (2026), it is noted that

portability is considered an essential feature of modern devices and systems. Portability is

described as an attribute of devices that can easily move or shift from one place to another.

This attribute is significant in modern devices as it facilitates devices, tools, or technologies

to function effectively without requiring extensive installation. The study indicates that

modern devices enable greater flexibility in various applications by allowing users to easily

adapt to changing needs in operations. Additionally, it is noted that portability facilitates

interoperability as devices can easily move from one place to another without affecting

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their functionality. According to modern research, it is noted that portability is essential in

developing devices that provide convenience as well as flexibility in various applications.

Recyclable Plastic Materials. According to Jambeck et al. (2016), plastic recycling is

considered to be the process of recovering waste or scrap plastic and reprocessing it into

useful products. Plastic recycling has developed over time due to the increase in plastic

pollution, especially that caused by single-use plastics and microplastics. Plastic recycling

helps to reduce plastic pollution caused by plastic products and minimizes the use of plastic

products made from fossil fuels. Plastic recycling has been effective in reducing plastic

waste disposal in landfills and other ecosystems such as rivers and seas. Plastic recycling

is done through collecting plastic materials that can be recycled and processing them to be

used to create new products. This process has helped to reduce plastic waste and its

pollution effects on ecosystems. In this study, the major recyclable plastic materials used

are used oil plastic containers collected from motorcycle shops. The materials used are

considered to be useful for recycling because of their availability and durability. The plastic

containers are to be used in making the proposed device to reduce plastic waste and create

a better design for a cost-efficient and sustainable device.

Swing Arm Bushing. According to Richmond (2025), swing arm bushings are considered

to be very important in relation to the performance and stability of motorcycles. The swing

arm bushing has been improved over time to enhance its durability and reduce friction that

can be caused by its components. From its structure, the swing arm bushing is considered

to be a cylindrical structure that is fitted inside the swing arm to connect it to the motorcycle

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frame to allow for pivotal movement. The swing arm bushing is considered to be effective

in its functioning to ensure that there is stable movement of the swing arm for an efficient

and effective motorcycle.

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