Before you specify
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 2 x 15 mm rated P-5 rather than P-6?
DIN 66399 sets P-5 at a maximum particle area of 30 mm2 and P-6 at 10 mm2 with a maximum particle width of 1 mm. A 2 x 15 mm particle is exactly 30 mm2, so it qualifies for P-5 with no margin, and its 2 mm width rules out P-6 outright regardless of length. The rating on this machine is correct and sits precisely on the boundary.
What is the hopper for, and when should I use the feed slot instead?
MBM describes the 4606 as having a unique feed hopper for bulky material alongside a conventional slot for flat paper stacks. Use the tilting hopper for crumpled contents of confidential waste bins, loose mixed paper and anything you would otherwise have to flatten first. Use the 18-inch fold-out feed table and slot for neat stacks, where controlled feeding lets you get closer to the rated sheet capacity.
How loud is it?
MBM's operating manual states that the workplace immission value is below the 70 dB(A) limit permitted under EN 13023. That is a compliance ceiling rather than a measured figure, so we will not quote a precise number. Practically, a 7.3 hp three-phase machine is loud enough that it belongs in a shred room or service area rather than beside desks in an open-plan office.
Can it shred CDs, credit cards or ring binders?
MBM does not publish a materials list for the 4606, and the IDEAL manual for this series states the machine is intended for shredding paper, with small quantities of CDs, cards and discs possible depending on variant. On a P-5 cutting head we would not risk it. Ring binders, laminated sheets and plastic binder combs should be removed. Ordinary staples and paper clips in the paper stream are normal use.
How does it compare with the 4005 cross-cut at P-5?
Same security level, very different machine. The DSH0502L is a 115 V single-phase office shredder taking 24-26 sheets into a 44-gallon bin. This is a 220 V three-phase machine taking 32-37 sheets into a 61-gallon bin, with a hopper for bulky waste and an 18-inch throat. Choose the 4005 for a department with a standard power outlet; choose the 4606 when P-5 destruction is a continuous, central operation.
How much space does it need?
The machine is 30 inches deep, 29 wide and 67 tall - genuinely compact for its capability, which is MBM's main claim for it. Beyond the footprint, allow room to swing the fold-out feed table down, space for an operator to tip waste into the hopper, and clearance to roll the 61-gallon shred bin out. It weighs 558 lb, so check the route in and the floor loading.
Does it oil itself?
Yes. The 4606 has an electronic oil injection system that lubricates the cutting shafts automatically, which is a significant feature on a 2 x 15 mm cutting head where dry shafts would degrade performance quickly. Keep the reservoir topped up with proper shredder oil and inspect the cutting head periodically. Do not substitute aerosol lubricants or vegetable oil.