X-Ray Sorting
X-ray sorting technology has revolutionized the recycling industry by enabling precise material separation based on density and elemental composition. Unlike traditional sorting methods, which rely on optical recognition, magnetic separation, X-ray technology penetrates materials at an atomic level, providing an unparalleled ability to classify and recover valuable metals from complex waste streams.
This cutting-edge technology plays a crucial role in reducing landfill waste, increasing resource recovery, and enhancing the quality of secondary raw materials, making it an essential tool in circular economy practices.
How X-Ray Sorting Works in Recycling
X-ray sorting relies on high-energy electromagnetic radiation to analyze the internal properties of materials. When materials pass through an X-ray beam, different elements interact with the radiation in distinct ways, depending on their density and atomic structure. These interactions are captured by advanced sensors, which process the data in real time to determine the composition of each item.
The system then triggers a precise separation mechanism, such as air jets or mechanical ejectors, to divert targeted materials into dedicated collection bins. This automated process ensures high-purity metal recovery, eliminating contaminants and improving the overall value of recycled materials.
X-Ray Transmission (XRT)
- Penetrates materials and measures how much radiation is absorbed
- Identifies density differences, distinguishing between light and heavy metals
- Used for separating aluminum from heavier metals like copper, zinc, and lead
Commonly applied in automotive shredder residue (ASR), incinerator ash (IBA), and aluminum recycling
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)
- Analyzes the atomic structure of metals to detect their chemical composition
- Differentiates specific metal alloys, including brass, bronze, and various grades of stainless steel
Applied in e-waste recycling, scrap refining, and non-ferrous metal upgrading
X-Rat Fluorescence combined with Transmission (XRF-T)
Patent No. N. 102022000005012
- Offers dual-layer material analysis by integrating density-based XRT with element-based XRF
- Enables the precise sorting of aluminum containing heavy metal inclusions
Ideal for operators looking to maximize purity while optimizing investment costs
The SGM XRF-T is specifically suited for operators with small and medium quantities of material to process; as with one SGM XRF-T, they can save on the more expensive investment of two separate sorters XRT + XRF.
Metals can be sorted with a recovery of over 90% and purity over 98%.
Sorting of light metals from heavy metals.
Sorting of heavy metals between them.
Key Applications of X-Ray Sorting in Recycling
- Automotive Recycling (ASR Processing) – Separates light metals from heavy metals in shredded car waste
- Electronic Waste (WEEE Processing) – Recovers precious and non-ferrous metals from circuit boards and devices
- Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA Processing) – Extracts valuable metals from municipal solid waste residues
- Aluminum Refining & Scrap Upgrading – Improves aluminum purity by eliminating unwanted metal contaminants
- Plastic & Glass Recycling – Removes metallic impurities from non-metallic fractions, enhancing material quality
Advantages of X-Ray Sorting in Recycling
- Identifies and extracts valuable metals that traditional sorting methods might miss
- Removes contaminants and mixed alloys, increasing market value
- Reduces manual sorting labor and material losses, improving profitability
- Supports a circular economy by maximizing resource recovery
- Works with different waste compositions and processing requirements
