0086-138 3838 9622RICHI MACHINERY is currently supporting installation of a 2.5-ton-per-hour paper-based cat litter pellet production line in northern Italy, responding to growing European demand for sustainable pet care products.
The project focuses on converting post-consumer paper waste and cardboard fiber into biodegradable, low-dust litter pellets for retail distribution.
Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Pet Products
Across Europe, pet owners increasingly prefer environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional clay litter. Paper-based litter offers advantages including renewability, light weight, and compostability.
Recognizing this market shift, the investor partnered with RICHI to establish a localized production facility using recycled paper as the primary raw material.
Raw Material Processing and Technical Approach
Recovered paper fibers present challenges due to low lignin content and weak natural cohesion. RICHI engineers developed a specialized processing route combining mechanical pulping, moisture conditioning, and binder-assisted pelletizing.
The system includes:
- Paper shredding and fiber separation
- Dewatering press
- Fiber drying unit
- Fine milling system
- Ring die pellet mill
- Cooling and screening section
- Automatic bagging line
Output capacity is designed at 2.5 T/H.
Natural binding agents are introduced during mixing to enhance pellet strength while maintaining rapid liquid absorption.
Equipment Design Highlights
The pellet mill uses customized die specifications to achieve moderate compression, preventing fiber degradation while ensuring pellet integrity.
A polishing drum further improves surface smoothness, reducing dust during transport and consumer handling.
The plant also integrates a centralized dust collection system to meet European workplace safety requirements.
Installation Progress and Timeline
Equipment delivery was completed in November 2025. RICHI technicians began installation in early December, completing mechanical assembly within four weeks.
Electrical wiring and automation integration are currently underway, with commissioning scheduled for late February.
RICHI will provide full operator training covering fiber moisture control, pellet quality adjustment, and routine maintenance.
Circular Economy Impact
Once operational, the facility will recycle thousands of tons of paper waste annually while supplying biodegradable litter products to regional markets.
This project reinforces RICHI MACHINERY’s role in supporting circular economy initiatives through advanced pelletizing solutions.
