Small– and mid-sized manufacturing facilities face a constant challenge: how to maximize production capacity without expanding their footprint. As CNC machining centers, lathes, and mills produce increasing volumes of metal chips, traditional chip handling methods—drums, bins, and forklifts—consume valuable floor space and labor hours. This is where PRAB’s Metal Chip Processing Systems come in.
Manual chip management often leads to safety hazards, coolant loss, and inconsistent scrap handling. The solution is compact, automated systems designed specifically for tight spaces—like PRAB’s line of Metal Scrap Processing Equipment.
PRAB’s modular, small-footprint systems deliver the same industrial durability and performance as full-scale installations. These solutions automate chip shredding, wringing, briquetting, and fluid recovery within a single self-contained cell.
Typical configurations combine:
Each module is engineered to interconnect as a scalable solution—allowing facilities to start with a single process and expand as production grows.
The entire process can operate continuously with minimal operator oversight.
PRAB compact systems are designed with a minimal footprint (as small as 8′ × 10′) and can be installed alongside machining cells or beneath mezzanines—without compromising safety or access.
By automating chip handling and fluid recovery, facilities typically achieve:
Eliminating open barrels and manual handling reduces slip hazards, coolant mist, and operator exposure to metal fines.
Each PRAB module includes durable, wear-resistant components, centralized controls, and accessible service points—ideal for lean maintenance teams.
Aerospace Components Manufacturer Turns Its Waste Stream into a Revenue Stream. By installing a crusher ahead of the briquetter, the company dramatically increased the efficiency of its scrap handling process. Instead of dumping hopper contents into an outside bin, forklifts now deliver scrap directly to the briquetter. Using dual compression technology, the system forms dense metal “pucks” that are up to 90% solid—among the highest in the industry. During compaction, cutting fluid is extracted and collected in a recovery pan, then pumped to a filtration unit where tramp oils and solids are removed. The clean coolant is returned to the machines for reuse, extending tool life and reducing fluid costs.
Results after 9 months:
The system also reduced forklift truck traffic and improved 5S workplace organization.
Compact processing cells can be configured with various PRAB conveyors for automated feeding and discharge:
| Conveyor Type | Application | Benefit |
| Pivot Belt Conveyor | Wet or dry metal chips | Compact footprint, high reliability |
| Steel Belt Conveyor | Heavier chip loads | Long service life |
| Drag Conveyor | Stringy turnings | Prevents clogs |
| Pneumatic Conveyor | Lightweight chips | Overhead routing for tight spaces |
These systems integrate seamlessly with PRAB’s Guardian™ and Automated pH Control Systems, supporting end-to-end coolant and wastewater management.
Compact PRAB systems can be tailored to fit within existing production cells. Options include variable-speed drives, automatic feed hoppers, PLC controls, and integrated fluid sensors that monitor performance in real time.
This level of automation helps engineers achieve:
By reducing coolant waste and solid scrap volume, compact PRAB systems help facilities:
Recovered fluids can also be processed for on-site reuse, reducing water consumption and disposal costs.
Test Before You Buy
PRAB offers a no-cost Material Testing Program that allows manufacturers to validate performance with their actual chips and coolant. Testing verifies throughput, moisture levels, and ROI before installation, ensuring the best system design for every footprint.
Key Takeaways
Learn more at PRAB Metal Scrap Processing Equipment.
They integrate shredding, wringing, and fluid recovery within a modular footprint, offering the same durability and ROI as larger installations. Check out PRAB’s E-Series Metal Chip Processing System.
Compact PRAB systems fit within as little as 8 × 10 feet, depending on configuration and throughput.
Aluminum, steel, brass, titanium, and stainless-steel turnings from CNC and machining operations.
(800) 968-7722
(800) 493-3462