Steinert sensor sorting system

The X-ray Sorting System (XSS) allows new possibilities for automated sorting of mixed material. Capable of recognising different material densities, the system uses a combination of information processing and X-ray sensing technologies to distinguish materials with similar colours and weights. This functionality allows it to process and sort material for applications such as: minerals processing, waste and recycling, production of refuse derived fuels (RDF), scrap metal processing and e-waste applications.

The Steinert X-ray sensor (detection) head operates by transmitting X-rays through the material to be sorted and an X-ray sensitive camera measures the intensity of the received radiation. A computer processes the data in real time to create a near-reality image of the material, sufficient to enable subtle evaluation to be carried out.

For minerals processing applications, mineral-bearing rock can be separated from low-grade, or barren rock and coal can be separated from ash. Diamonds and gold nuggets can be detected and recovered from gravel.

Light metals can be sorted from heavy metals and cast aluminium can be separated from wrought aluminium-based alloys. PVC can be sorted from plastics, and stones and ceramics from scrap wood. Plastics, stones and composite materials can be separated from organic materials making the system suitable for producing RDF. Different metals, components containing heavy metals, composite materials and internal items such as screws or other composite materials can be recognised, which has applications for the e-waste industry.

The system is completely encapsulated and can be used in any standard factory environment. It meets all international and Australian standards for safe radiation thresholds.

Steinert Australia has installed a unit with a 1 m useable width conveyor belt in its Bayswater, Victoria, facility. It will process particle sizes between 5 and 200 mm, and is capable of a throughput up to 10 t/h.