My aim in this task to use an old paper shredder and make it into something that was powered by hand and that could cut my plastic in pieces.
Step 1: Taking apart the shredder and removing the electrics and motor and all the casings.
I stripped away any components that were not needed for the use of hand-powering.
Step 2: Above is the key element that was attached to the motor so therefore what makes the whole shredder blades turn. So I made a key out of brass to fit this hexagon shape.
Then riveted the key to a wooden handle.
Step 3: Housing the shredder temporarily in a cardboard box. The lid flaps of the box turned in made a double layer of cardboard and a stronger structure. It also allowed me to cut into the sides at different depths so giving a strong support for both sides of the shredder. I had to accurately measure the sections to cut to make sure there was no movement and that it wouldn't fall out.
Step 4: I Attached the handle on the outside securing it with the shredders original Circlip.
A it works! The only problem is that it cuts paper well but the blades are not sharp enough, or close enough to cut the plastic! Instead of cutting it perforates the HDPE and PP. I then continue to sharpen the blades with a sharpening stone but it still doesn't cut.
