Sorting non-ferrous metals right down to 5 mm grain size

The recovery of non-ferrous metals using the Steinert EddyC and the sorting of light and heavy metals in small grain sizes using the Steinert XSS-T is nothing new. But what is new is the option of using X-ray fluorescence to economically separate ultra-pure products down to a fine grain of 5 mm and recover zinc, brass and copper in their purest form at this grain size. After separation, the qualities are pure enough to be ready to smelt.

Developed for the operators of ASR and IBA plants

The operators of plants for sorting heavy non-ferrous metals (ZEBRA) from incineration bottom ash (IBA) or automotive shredder residues (ASR) will welcome this innovation. The objective of sorting remains the same, namely to separate and upgrade non-ferrous heavy metals into metal types such as aluminium, copper, zinc, brass or stainless steel. But now the fine-grain fraction can be processed too.

X-ray fluorescence delivers purity

In metal analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis (RFA) is a standard method for determining the elemental composition. With Steinert Chutec, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is also used as a technology in sorting of metals. The chute sorting system combines the signals from the XRF unit with 3D information in order to achieve a precise level of classification and separation. For larger and heterogeneous material, the option of sorting with the Steinert KSS | XF belt- based machine has proven its reliability in practice.

The sorting produces concentrates of different types of metal, which display a quality suitable for immediate use in reprocessing smelting plants. This refinement level thus makes an important contribution to returning metals to the raw material cycle.

With Steinert customers are able to procure sorting solutions, including non- ferrous metal separators and X-ray sorting equipment, from one source. Business owners very much appreciate minimising coordination work to free up more time for developing metal recycling concepts. “My production staff have complete confidence in Steinert. The plants are easy to operate and all technical components are easy to understand and simple to use,” is how one opinion leader in the recycling industry puts it.