REDWAVE, the world leader in XRF sensor-based sorting technology, proudly introduces a new generation of
sorting machines. The cutting-edge REDWAVE XRF fine sorting machine sets new benchmarks for sorting fine
materials in the metal recycling industry. It can accurately detect and sort a blend of non-ferrous metals
starting from a size of 4 mm, to produce high-quality products such as pure copper, brass, zinc and precious
metal fractions.
Starting point:
Metal recycling offers a multitude of benefits, including significant energy savings, while preserving valuable
resources. For metal recyclers, fully automated sorting with X-ray fluorescence technology has proven to be
extremely economical and efficient for years.
However, there is a challenge when it comes to sorting fine materials (4-25 mm) without any loss. Conventional
sorting machines typically use a chute system, which works well for coarse materials, but presents certain
drawbacks when handling fine materials. These include chute behavior, changes in trajectory, and the
adherence of contaminated parts.
These limitations can result in quality deterioration in the sorted material as well as a reduction in the output.
REDWAVE XRF fine – The new generation of XRF sorting technology for fine metals:
REDWAVE has introduced an innovative solution for sorting fine metals with the launch of the trailblazing
REDWAVE XRF fine. Developed specifically for materials measuring from 4 mm, the machine employs a unique
belt system instead of a chute system, drawing on the company’s extensive experience and cross-application
know-how. Compared to conventional chute systems, the belt system boasts maximum precision. This is
particularly advantageous when sorting fine metals, as they can be precisely identified and accurately ejected.
The belt system offers significant benefits over the chute system when handling fine, small, and round
materials.
REDWAVE XRF belt system
- Optimal for small and rolling parts (4-25 mm)
- Uniform conveyance results in no changes in speed or position of the parts, allowing for accurate sorting.
- The innovative belt prevents material from snagging.
- Controllable trajectory ensures accurate sorting.
- Highest precision and performance for sorting fine, small, and round parts.
XRF chute system
- Optimal for large parts (from 20 mm)
- Controlling the slippage of small parts is challenging.
- Frequent changes in speed and position can reduce the quality of the final product or output rate.
- Fine materials may stick to the chute.
- Unpredictable trajectory of small materials makes precise sorting difficult.
- Highest precision and performance for sorting coarse material.
Designed with ease of maintenance and accessibility in mind, the new sorter has been optimised for rapid
service and maintenance work. The belt change can now be carried out very quickly. A video link,
demonstrating this process can seen here: https://youtu.be/EDXbKQUbkCA
The REDWAVE XRF fine machine is loaded with a significant increase in the number of energy-saving valves
optimally arranged and spaced to maximizes sorting accuracy. The machine also boasts an innovative and
highly developed sensor technology that offers fast scan rates, a higher resolution, and precise material
detection. Additionally, REDWAVE is independent of supply chains.
Thanks to these developments, the REDWAVE XRF fine sorting machine can efficiently sort fine material
ranging from approximately 4 to 25 mm in size, setting new standards in performance and precision for metal
recycling.
Is it profitable to sort fine metal using XRF sorting technology?
Currently, mixed fractions of fine scrap metal are typically shipped to Asian countries. Metal recyclers could
achieve significant economic benefits by separating both common metals and precious metals from the mixed
fraction and selling them individually at a much higher price. By using sensor-based sorting machines that rely
on X-ray fluorescence (XRF), pure metal can be automatically and efficiently sorted on a large scale.
Sorting materials with XRF sorting machines and recovering metals from industrial waste incineration (IBA slag),
scrap cars, or other non-ferrous metals efficiently increases the value of metals and pays off. The high-tech XRF
sorting system can achieve a return on investment (ROI) within a short period of time.
REDWAVE XRF fine – Feedback from the market
The REDWAVE XRF fine has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the market. This XRF conveyor
belt machine has already demonstrated its immense potential and impressive sorting capabilities during tests
at the REDWAVE test center. Customers have confirmed the machine’s exceptional performance.
Trends and outlook:
The current high demand for metals on a global scale, coupled with continually increasing metal prices, has
resulted in a positive impact on the profitability of metal recycling. As a result, interest in XRF sorting
technology has surged, further boosting the attractiveness of metal recycling and bolstering the profits of
metal recyclers. Overall, XRF sorting technology provides a highly effective and precise method for analysing
and sorting metal waste and scrap metals within the recycling industry. Companies that utilize this technology
can enhance the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of their recycling processes, while making a valuable
contribution to environmental protection.
“This innovation represents a significant breakthrough for the recycling industry. The technology promises to
unlock new opportunities for metal recyclers across the globe to more effectively conserve and recover
valuable resources, ultimately benefiting both their business and the environment”, says REDWAVE CEO Silvia
Schweiger-Fuchs.
By introducing this new sorting technology, REDWAVE has elevated metal recycling to a new level, optimizing
the profitability of the entire process. Through the efficient sorting of fine materials, the technology ensures
that the end products are of a higher quality, with fewer impurities. This leads to a more effective recycling of
metals and results in higher prices for metal recyclers.
REDWAVE is proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking advancement in XRF sorting technology. This
innovation not only maximises the potential of metal recycling, but also makes a significant contribution
towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly world.