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Assessing the process performance of ballistic separators in packaging waste sorting plants using sensor-based
Alena Maria Spies1, Tabea Scherling1, Annika Ludes2
1Chair of Anthropogenic Material Cycles (ANTS), RWTH Aachen University, Germany.
Summary
Optimizing ballistic separators in waste sorting is key for recycling. This study found specific paddle types and rotational speeds significantly improve the separation of 2D and 3D materials from packaging waste.
Area of Science:
- Waste Management
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Effective utilization of secondary raw materials necessitates pre-concentrates of defined quality.
- Packaging waste streams undergo treatment in waste sorting plants, employing various sorting operations.
- Ballistic separators are crucial for separating 2D and 3D materials, significantly impacting overall process performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of parameter settings on the performance of ballistic separators.
- To assess and optimize the process performance of ballistic separators in packaging waste treatment.
- To develop optimization strategies for integrating findings into operational practice.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a parameter study on packaging waste using an industrial-scale ballistic separator.
- Employed near-infrared-based process monitoring for data acquisition.
- Varied parameters including paddle angle, rotational speeds, and paddle types at a 22.5 wt% 2D input content.
Main Results:
- All tested parameters demonstrated significant effects on the separation performance.
- The 45 mm paddles showed superior separation performance compared to closed paddles in the tested material stream.
- A specific rotational speed threshold was identified for effective separation efficiency, with further increases yielding no additional benefits.
Conclusions:
- Parameter settings, particularly paddle type and rotational speed, critically influence ballistic separator performance.
- Optimization strategies were developed to enhance operational efficiency and potential automation of sorting plants.
- The findings contribute to improving packaging waste sorting and the utilization of secondary raw materials.
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