Even today, around 75% of the aluminium ever produced is still in circulation. In Europe, the recycling rate is even over 90%. However, with the predicted surge in demand of up to 50% by 2030, the pressure to recycle aluminium even more efficiently, economically and according to type is also increasing.
The big challenge: complex alloys
The problem: aluminium scrap is not a uniform material. Different alloys have different chemical compositions and properties - crucial for subsequent reuse. A drinks can is very different from an engine block or a window frame. Without precise sorting, recycled aluminium cannot be used in high-quality applications such as aviation or electromobility. The result: downcycling or even disposal.
Until now, technologies such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray transmission (XRT) or LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) have been used for this purpose. These methods deliver good results, but require high investments and are technically more complex to operate.
Binder+Co CLARITY AI: Intelligent visual sorting rethought
Binder+Co, an Austrian specialist in sensor-based sorting technology, is taking a new approach - with artificial intelligence. The CLARITY AI system combines high-resolution camera technology with deep learning algorithms. Instead of analysing chemical properties, the AI recognises optical characteristics such as surface structure, gloss, edge profile or production features - in other words, the so-called "optical fingerprint" of a part. Even cast iron, sheet metal and profiles that look the same to the human eye are reliably differentiated.
A practical example: when sorting so-called twitch material(mixed aluminium scrap), the AI first recognises extruded profiles and then distinguishes between cast and sheet material. A compact LIBS unit is only activated for fine separation in the final step if required - a hybrid system that combines robustness with precision.
AI as a game changer for the circular economy
With CLARITY AI, Binder+Co impressively demonstrates how modern technology can take aluminium recycling to a new level. The advantages speak for themselves: thanks to the high throughput of up to 15 tonnes per hour, large quantities of material can be processed quickly and efficiently. At the same time, investment and operating costs are reduced, as complex and expensive specialised technology - such as complex LIBS systems - only needs to be used selectively and to a reduced extent.
Another plus point is that dispensing with X-ray technology not only makes the sorting process safer, but also simpler in terms of authorisation and ongoing operation. The AI system also requires significantly less maintenance. Fewer wearing parts mean less effort and less downtime. This means that the investment is amortised in a very short time - a decisive advantage in a highly competitive market.
This efficiency is not only reflected in the economic efficiency, but also in the ecological footprint: less energy consumption, less waste, more reuse - a clear contribution to the decarbonisation of the industry.
In a free webinar recording, interested parties can find out how modern AI technologies are setting new standards in metal sorting, including a machine demonstration and live Q&A. Find out more at Binder+Co webinar Metal sorting with AI
And best of all: the technology is not limited to aluminium. Even complex material flows such as electronic scrap, composite materials or used beverage cans can be separated into high-quality fractions using AI-based sorting - cleanly, quickly and precisely.
#schongenial, when the combination of industrial experience and state-of-the-art technology ensures that no recyclable material is lost.
