Trommel Screens: Reliable Separation for Demanding Applications

In modern recycling and waste management operations, trommel screens play a vital role in material separation and processing efficiency. At CRS NI, our trommel systems are engineered for performance, durability, and versatility — designed to handle a wide range of materials, including construction and demolition waste, commercial and industrial waste, mixed dry recyclables, WEEE, gypsum, compost, and auto shredder residue (ASR). In this article, we explore what a trommel is, how it works, where it’s used, and why operators benefit from our heavy-duty trommel screens.

Heavy-duty trommel screen separating mixed recyclables at a waste processing facility

What Is a Trommel Screen?

A trommel screen, sometimes called a rotary screen, is a cylindrical drum fitted with perforations or mesh panels that rotates to separate materials based on size. As the drum turns, smaller particles fall through the holes while larger ones continue along the drum and are discharged at the end.

This simple yet effective design makes trommel screens ideal for applications where sticky, moist, or irregular materials can clog traditional vibrating screens. CRS NI’s trommel screens are heavy duty, customisable, stationary screening solutions designed to integrate into new or existing recycling systems.

How Heavy Duty Trommel Screens Work

Material is fed into one end of the rotating drum, typically positioned at a slight incline. As the drum rotates:

Smaller particles pass through the perforations.
Larger materials travel the drum’s length and exit at the far end.
Internal lifters or scroll bars lift, tumble, and advance the material for maximum screening efficiency.

CRS trommel screens are designed with robust steel construction, replaceable screening panels, and variable drum speed controls. These ensure long service life, minimal maintenance, and consistent performance — even in the toughest processing conditions.

Key Components of a Heavy Duty Trommel

Rotating Drum: Precision-engineered and perforated for optimal screening.
Drive System: Motor and gearbox provide steady, adjustable rotation speed.
Support Frame: Heavy-duty chassis designed for stability and longevity.
Inlet & Outlet Points: Controlled flow of materials for continuous operation.
Replaceable Screen Panels: Openings available in a range of sizes to suit different applications.

Applications of Trommel Screens

In recycling and waste management, trommel screens are among the most versatile and reliable pieces of equipment. Their rotating drum design allows for efficient separation of materials by size, making them suitable for a wide range of industries and waste streams. CRS heavy duty trommel screens are built to perform in the most demanding conditions, providing exceptional throughput and accuracy across multiple applications.

Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste

Trommel screens are ideal for processing mixed C&D materials such as soil, rubble, and concrete fines. By effectively separating these materials based on particle size, operators can recover valuable aggregates for reuse and reduce landfill disposal. CRS NI’s trommels handle bulky, abrasive materials with ease, maintaining consistent performance even in heavy-duty conditions.

Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Waste

C&I waste streams often contain a mixture of packaging, plastics, paper, and residual materials. Trommel screens are used as the first stage of separation, improving downstream recovery rates and efficiency. Their variable speed and screen size options allow for precise classification of diverse materials, ensuring smoother plant operation and improved recycling yield.

Mixed Dry Recyclables (MDR)

In material recovery facilities, trommel screens play a key role in sorting mixed dry recyclables. By separating light fractions such as paper and plastics from heavier metals and glass, CRS trommels optimise the recovery process. Their reliability and low maintenance requirements make them a cost-effective screening solution for high-volume recycling plants.

ASR (Auto Shredder Residue)

Trommel screens are also used in the processing of Auto Shredder Residue (ASR) — the mixed material that remains after vehicle shredding. The screen helps separate fines and recover valuable metals from plastics, foam, and dust. CRS trommels are built for the rigours of ASR processing, providing durability and stability under constant heavy loads.

Gypsum Recycling

In gypsum recycling applications, trommel screens are used to separate gypsum powder from contaminants such as paper and plastics. This clean separation enables high-quality gypsum recovery for reuse in manufacturing, supporting sustainability and circular economy goals. CRS trommels’ precision screening ensures consistent material quality.

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment)

Processing electronic waste requires careful handling and accurate separation of small components. CRS heavy duty trommels efficiently screen shredded WEEE materials, helping to recover valuable metals and remove contaminants before further processing. The robust construction ensures long-lasting performance even with sharp, abrasive materials.

Composting and Organics

Trommel screens are widely used in composting facilities to separate fine compost from oversize material. The tumbling action of the drum allows for efficient screening of moist or fibrous materials, improving compost quality and reducing reprocessing time. Their versatility makes them a trusted choice in green waste and food waste processing.

Benefits of Heavy Duty Trommel Screens

High Throughput Efficiency: Capable of processing large material volumes continuously.
Versatility: Effective for wet, sticky, or abrasive materials.
Low Maintenance: Simple mechanical design reduces downtime and operating costs.
Durability: Heavy-duty steel construction withstands demanding environments.
Eco-Friendly Operation: Improves recovery rates, reduces waste, and supports sustainable practices.

Why Choose CRS Heavy Duty Trommels

Every CRS heavy duty trommel screen is built to perform — combining intelligent design, durable engineering and easy maintenance access. Our systems are:

Drum Options: Available in a range of sizes, perforations, and layouts to suit different processing requirements.
High Capacity: Designed to handle large throughput volumes, with output depending on material type and configuration.
Energy Efficient: Electric drives and optimised rotation speeds minimise energy use.
Modular & Mobile Options: Available as static installations or mobile trommel units for flexible site use.

Designed and manufactured in-house by CRS NI, our trommel screens integrate seamlessly with complete recycling and sorting systems — ensuring consistent, high-quality separation and long-term reliability.

Trommel Screens in Sustainable Waste Management

CRS trommel screens are integral to advanced waste processing facilities across Europe and beyond. By improving sorting accuracy and material recovery, they contribute directly to landfill reduction and circular economy goals. Whether you’re processing C&D waste, MDR, C&I, or gypsum, its flexibility and durability deliver real value. CRS trommels help operators achieve higher recovery, lower operating costs, and improved plant performance.

Partner with CRS NI

Since 2009, CRS NI has been delivering innovative screening and separation solutions to the global recycling and waste management industries. Our heavy-duty trommel screens reflect our commitment to engineering excellence, product reliability, and sustainability.

Ready to upgrade your screening efficiency?
Get in touch with our team to discuss how a CRS heavy duty trommel screen can enhance your operation.