Crystal Lake, IL – June 17, 2025 — On June 17, the Illinois Recycling Foundation (IRF) hosted a special industry site tour at the headquarters of General Kinematics, a global leader in material handling and vibratory processing solutions. The event brought together IRF members, municipal recycling professionals, sustainability advocates, and industry stakeholders for an in-depth look at cutting-edge recycling technology and innovation in action.
General Kinematics, based in Crystal Lake, Illinois, has been at the forefront of recycling equipment design for over six decades. The company is renowned for its advanced vibratory machinery, optical sorters, and complete systems that enhance the performance and sustainability of recycling operations across the globe.
During the visit, attendees were welcomed by General Kinematics leadership and treated to a comprehensive presentation on the company’s history, mission, and technological advancements. The presentation highlighted the company’s role in revolutionizing recycling operations through innovation and efficiency, as well as its contributions to a more circular economy.
Participants were then guided through a live tour of the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. The tour showcased how raw materials are transformed into sophisticated equipment used in materials recovery facilities (MRFs), scrap processing centers, and industrial recycling applications. Attendees observed the intricate processes involved in engineering and fabricating machines such as vibratory screeners, feeders, and density separators—technologies that play a vital role in improving material recovery rates and reducing environmental impact.
Following the tour, guests engaged in an informative discussion session with General Kinematics’ engineering and sustainability experts. Topics included the growing role of automation in recycling, the importance of equipment customization to meet evolving waste stream demands, and strategies to address contamination and efficiency challenges in MRFs.
The event served as both an educational experience and a networking opportunity, providing IRF members with firsthand insight into the technologies shaping the future of recycling. The tour underscored the critical importance of collaboration between equipment manufacturers and recycling professionals in advancing sustainable solutions.
The Illinois Recycling Foundation is grateful to General Kinematics for their hospitality and for opening their doors to the recycling community. The event is part of IRF’s broader mission to promote knowledge-sharing, foster innovation, and support the ongoing professional development of Illinois' recycling leaders.
To learn more about IRF events, programs, and membership, please visit www.illinoisrecycles.org.
