The MKII and MK3 are both tyre balers manufactured by Gradeall International, but they’re built for different operational scales. The MKII is a proven, high-output two-ram machine suited to a wide range of recycling operations. The MK3 is a larger, three-ram baler engineered for the highest volumes, with bales specifically designed to load straight into shipping containers without turning.
This isn’t a quality comparison. Both models are built at Gradeall’s manufacturing facility in Dungannon, Northern Ireland, using the same engineering standards and materials. The difference is in throughput capacity, bale dimensions, power requirements, and how efficiently each model handles container loading.
If you’re processing moderate volumes of car tyres and need a proven, flexible machine, the MKII is the natural starting point. If your facility handles very high volumes and container loading efficiency is a priority, the MK3 delivers meaningfully better output per shift.
Gradeall International manufactures both models and has installed them in recycling operations across 100+ countries. The specifications and comparisons below are based on real-world performance data from customer sites, not theoretical maximums.
The MKII tyre baler produces 4 to 6 bales per hour, with each bale containing between 90 and 110 tyres depending on tyre size. That works out to approximately 350 car tyres per hour at average throughput. Cycle time per bale (load, compress, eject) runs 10 to 12 minutes under normal operating conditions.
The MK3 tyre baler is the larger machine. It produces up to 3 bales per hour, but each bale holds up to 140 tyres, giving it an approximate throughput of 500 car tyres per hour at full output. Its three-ram system delivers 75 tonnes of compression force and completes a full compression cycle in as little as 60 seconds.
The MK3’s higher per-bale tyre count means fewer bales to handle, wire, and transport for the same volume of rubber processed. That matters at scale. A facility running five days a week, eight hours a day processes significantly more material per shift with the MK3, while also reducing the number of bales that need to be moved, stacked, and loaded.
Truck tyres are possible on both models, but only after sidewall removal. The truck tyre sidewall cutter removes sidewalls in 30 to 60 seconds, which eliminates the tyre’s memory effect and allows the tread section to compress flat. Both the MKII and MK3 can process the resulting tread sections efficiently when paired with a sidewall cutter.
The MKII produces PAS 108-compliant bales. Its bale dimensions mean that loading a standard shipping container requires turning the last bale on its side to fit, which adds time to each loading cycle. Under typical conditions, filling a 40ft container with MKII bales takes approximately one hour.
The MK3 was designed specifically to solve that problem. Its bale dimensions match the interior width of a standard shipping container, so bales can be driven straight in without turning. Loading a container with MK3 bales takes 20 to 25 minutes, which is a reduction of over 50% compared to the MKII. Unloading is faster too: the bales sit horizontal throughout and are fewer in number, so the whole operation is quicker at both ends.
A 40ft container holds 32 standard MKII bales to meet the 26-tonne weight limit. The same container holds only 20 to 22 MK3 bales to reach the same weight. Fewer, heavier bales means less wire, fewer handling movements, and faster turnaround per container.
For operations where container loading is a regular part of the workflow, the MK3’s time saving compounds quickly across a week of shipping.
PAS 108 is the British standard for tyre bales used in civil engineering, road construction, and building applications. It specifies minimum density, dimensions, and wire binding standards. Only bales meeting these criteria are accepted on most construction sites.
Both the MKII and MK3 can produce bales that meet PAS 108 standards. If your end-market includes construction or civil engineering projects, either model is a viable option. Check with your downstream buyer to confirm their specific bale specification requirements before committing to either machine.
If your bales go to shredding facilities, pyrolysis plants, or energy recovery operations, PAS 108 compliance is less likely to be a requirement. Those processors focus on volume reduction and transport efficiency rather than certification. In that case, both models work equally well and the decision comes down to throughput and container loading needs.
The MKII requires three-phase power at 415V. If your site doesn’t already have three-phase supply, an upgrade typically costs £5,000 to £15,000 depending on distance from the nearest transformer and local infrastructure.
The MK3’s three-ram system also requires an industrial power supply appropriate to its higher hydraulic demands. As with any capital equipment installation, confirm your site’s electrical capacity with a qualified electrician before purchase. Gradeall’s sales team can provide full electrical specification requirements for both models to take to your site assessment.
Operating costs differ in proportion to throughput. Because the MK3 produces higher output per hour, the cost per tyre processed tends to be lower once the machine is running at capacity, even if the hourly running cost is higher in absolute terms.
The MKII measures approximately 4,200mm (length) x 2,850mm (width) x 4,960mm (height). You need adequate floor space for loading access, bale ejection clearance, and maintenance access around all sides.
The MK3 is a larger machine at approximately 3,855mm (width) x 2,885mm (depth) x 5,010mm (height). Its greater physical size reflects the larger loading chamber and three-ram hydraulic system. Plan your floor layout accordingly, and account for forklift access to collect and move finished bales.
Both models require a level concrete floor rated to the machine’s operating weight plus the weight of a full bale. If you’re planning to add conveyor systems for automatic feeding, both models can be paired with the inclined tyre baler conveyor, which feeds tyres from ground level into the loading chamber and significantly reduces operator bending and fatigue. This is especially relevant for MK3 operations: with up to 140 tyres per bale and multiple bales per hour, manual loading without conveyor assistance is physically demanding.
Both the MKII and MK3 are designed for single-operator use. The four-door loading design allows the operator to feed tyres from whichever side is most convenient. Automatic wire-tying systems are available on both models.
The difference is output per labour hour. At approximately 350 car tyres per hour, the MKII delivers strong productivity for a one-person operation. The MK3 at approximately 500 car tyres per hour raises that ceiling significantly, which matters when intake volumes are high and processing speed affects how quickly the yard clears.
For facilities running the baler intermittently as tyres accumulate, the MKII’s output is sufficient for most mid-volume operations. For recycling plants or vehicle dismantlers handling thousands of tyres per week continuously, the MK3’s higher throughput justifies the additional capital cost.
Both models generate similar noise levels during operation. Hydraulic pumps and compression cycles produce approximately 60dB to 65dB at one metre distance, comparable to normal conversation or background office noise.
If your facility is in a noise-sensitive area, confirm the local authority’s noise limits. Most UK councils apply daytime limits of 55dB to 70dB depending on location and time of day. Both models can be fitted with acoustic enclosures or sound-dampening panels if required. Industrial estates and waste transfer stations typically operate under more relaxed limits, where standard models are fine without additional soundproofing.
Both models use the same core hydraulic design principles. Maintenance schedules are similar: daily visual inspection, weekly hydraulic oil and lubrication checks, monthly filter changes and wire feed alignment, quarterly hydraulic and electrical servicing, and an annual full overhaul.
The MK3’s additional ram and higher compression force mean its hydraulic system works harder per cycle. Schedule maintenance intervals accordingly and keep a close eye on seal condition if you’re running the machine at or near full capacity continuously.
Gradeall stocks OEM parts for both models at the Dungannon facility. UK deliveries typically arrive next day. International customers receive parts within 48 to 72 hours depending on location and customs clearance. Parts pricing is broadly comparable between models; the difference in maintenance costs over time comes from usage intensity rather than component price differences.
Both models can be fitted with PLC-based remote monitoring systems. Gradeall’s service engineers can log in remotely, check operating parameters, review cycle counts, and diagnose faults without travelling to site.
The MKII’s remote monitoring system uses a GSM SIM card and requires sufficient signal strength for a reliable connection. It tracks bales produced per day, average cycle time, power consumption, and maintenance alerts, with email alerts sent on bale completion. Remote monitoring availability on the MK3 should be confirmed with Gradeall’s sales team at the time of enquiry.
Remote monitoring is an optional extra on both models. For operations running multiple shifts or in remote locations where a service callout takes time to arrange, the investment typically runs £1,200 to £2,000 and can cut fault resolution from days to hours.
Gradeall doesn’t publish fixed pricing because every installation is different. Delivery distance, electrical work, optional extras (conveyors, acoustic enclosures, remote monitoring), and financing arrangements all affect the final cost. The MK3’s higher capacity is reflected in its purchase price relative to the MKII.
ROI depends on your operation. For high-volume facilities, the MK3’s efficiency gains across throughput, bale count reduction, and container loading time can offset the higher capital cost faster than the raw machine price difference might suggest. For mid-volume operations, the MKII typically represents a lower-risk entry point with strong residual values on the used baler market.
Gradeall works with equipment finance providers offering lease, hire purchase, and loan options. Ask about finance when requesting a quote.
As Conor Murphy, Director of Gradeall International, notes: “The right baler for your operation depends on what you’re processing, how much of it, and where those bales are going. Both machines are built to the same standards in the same facility. The question is which one fits your throughput requirements and site conditions today, with room to grow.”
Both models benefit from pre-processing. A truck tyre sidewall cutter removes sidewalls from truck and agricultural tyres in 30 to 60 seconds, allowing the tread sections to compress much more efficiently in either baler. For car tyres, sidewall cutting is optional but can meaningfully improve cycle times.
A car tyre sidewall cutter paired with either baler raises bale density and throughput. Tyre rim separators are worth considering where downstream processors want clean rubber bales or where the steel rims have resale value.
The tyre recycling equipment range at Gradeall covers the full processing chain, from separation and cutting through to baling and container loading.
Gradeall operates a service engineer network across the UK and Ireland, with trained service partners in most major export markets. Both models carry a 12-month warranty on parts and labour, with extended warranties and service contracts available. Service contracts covering preventive maintenance, priority callout, and discounted parts typically run 5% to 8% of purchase price per year.
For international installations, where a site visit from Dungannon adds time to any repair, remote monitoring becomes especially valuable. Gradeall will also fly an engineer to site if a fault cannot be resolved remotely and the situation requires it.
Choose the MKII if:
Choose the MK3 if:
Consider the truck tyre baler instead if:
No. They’re different machines, not modular upgrades. If you outgrow the MKII, you’d sell it and purchase an MK3. Used tyre balers hold value well, and Gradeall can discuss trade-in arrangements. Contact the sales team to explore options.
Both use standard high-tensile baling wire. The MK3 uses 7 wires per bale due to its larger bale size. Wire consumption per bale is proportionally higher on the MK3, but the per-tyre wire cost is comparable given the greater number of tyres in each bale.
Yes, though efficiency suffers. Motorbike tyres are small and don’t pack efficiently, requiring significantly more tyres to reach a full bale. Most facilities processing motorbike tyres use a different approach. Contact Gradeall to discuss the best configuration for your tyre mix.
Both operate at approximately 60dB to 65dB during compression cycles. If noise is a concern, fit acoustic dampening to whichever model you select rather than making the choice on noise grounds alone.
Yes, but it shortens equipment lifespan. Hydraulic components and electrical systems deteriorate faster when exposed to weather. If outdoor installation is unavoidable, fit a weatherproof enclosure and increase maintenance frequency.
Both models take 1 to 2 days for standard installation. If electrical upgrades are needed, add 1 to 3 days depending on the scope of work.
Not usually, but check with your local planning authority. If you operate under an environmental permit or waste management licence, notify the regulator that you’re adding equipment. Some permits specify the types of machinery allowed on site.
Yes. Gradeall works with equipment finance providers offering lease, hire purchase, and loan options. Ask about finance when requesting a quote.
The MKII produces bales containing between 90 and 110 tyres per bale. The MK3 produces bales containing up to 140 tyres per bale. The MK3’s larger bale size is the primary reason fewer bales are needed to fill a container, reducing handling time and wire usage per tonne of rubber processed.
Both can process truck tyres after sidewall removal using a sidewall cutter. Neither is designed to bale unprocessed whole truck tyres. For operations focused primarily on truck tyres, Gradeall’s truck tyre baler is purpose-built for that application.
The choice between the MKII and MK3 comes down to volume, container loading requirements, and your site’s operational scale. The MKII is the right tool for most mid-to-high-volume recycling operations processing up to approximately 350 car tyres per hour. The MK3 raises that ceiling to approximately 500 tyres per hour while cutting container loading time by more than half, making it the stronger choice for large recycling plants and high-throughput dismantlers.
Visit Gradeall’s manufacturing facility in Dungannon to see both models in operation. Running a demonstration with your own tyres will tell you more than any specification sheet. Request a detailed quote and site assessment; Gradeall’s team will assess your requirements and recommend the configuration that fits your volume today with room for growth.
All prices and figures in this article are indicative UK examples correct at the time of writing. Use them as a benchmark rather than fixed quotations.
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