THE PANINI PRESS - ILL-ADVISED USE IN D&T

Using a Panini Press to melt HDPE bottle tops may work for small-scale recycling projects, but it carries serious safety and health risks, if not done carefully. It is not recommended, even when tightly controlled with proper ventilation, protective equipment and clear educational framing. The risks being more harmful than helpful. The World Association of Technology Teachers strongly recommend that this ‘process’ is NOT used in D&T departments (see below).

Key Considerations for Teachers

Ventilation is non-negotiable. Even “safe” plastics can release particulates when overheated.

Clear labelling of plastics is essential, students must learn to distinguish HDPE from other plastics. Unfortunately many bottle tops are not labelled or their labelling cannot be trusted. 

Much better alternative processes exist. Compression moulding or using specialised low-temperature ovens designed for plastics are safer and more consistent. Proper workshop equipment such as vacuum formers and strip heaters, provide a safe avenue to experiment with ‘plastics’.

Projects such as the recycling of plastic bottle tops, are often adopted because they appear to be a cheap way of replacing skilled projects, with one that requires little skill (if any). You need to consider, is this type of project an example of the  further deskilling of D&T?

Do not be influenced by posts on social media or by organisations promoting this type of project. Use your commonsense. Using kitchen equipment in a workshop is a bad idea.