Automatic sorting of aluminium packaging from domestic refuse

Aluminium is a valuable material and it is worthwhile to keep the material in the materials cycle as long as possible. Separating used aluminium packaging from domestic refuse is very well possible, if proper requirements are taken. As part of the European research program "Packaging and environment in Europe" possibilities for optimisation of this separation have been investigated. Partners in the aluminium group of the project are Koninklijke Hoogovens, Pechiney and VAW. The subjects in the research program on aluminium are: separation of aluminium from waste, thermal separation of the metal from laminates, purification of the molten metal, removing of undesired elements. The separation program is investigated by Pechiney and Hoogovens. Pechiney has focused its activities on the modification of metal sensors. These sensors have been made capable of recognising packaging with different sizes and thicknes. These results were reported last year. Hoogovens has worked on the application of different Eddy Current separators under various conditions. The latest developments are discussed. Results of separation trials under laboratory and industrial conditions are reported. The test program shows that a relative high amount of aluminium, up to 0,67%, can be separated under economically acceptable conditions. The possibilities for remelting the aluminium fraction are being investigated. An economical break even point can be achieved soon, even under the worst practical conditions.