Making the case for robotic sorting: TOMRA Recycling’s new eBook gets into the mechanics of recycling robots

Selecting the right mix of optical sorters with robotic arm and valve block ejectors delivers two powerful robot options to boost the recovery of wanted materials. Robotic technology is rapidly growing in the recycling industry, especially with optical sorting equipment. Drawing from deep datasets, optical sorters using different ejection methods process material fractions more efficiently and with higher purity rates than at any other time. But what exactly constitutes a robot in the recycling industry and how do these machines leverage the deep learning subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to benefit today’s recycling facilities?

TOMRA Recycling’s latest eBook “Recycling Robots, Take Two,” explains the similarities and differences between optical sorters with valve block and robotic arm ejectors and details how, when implemented as part of the holistic system design, both can be used complementary to improve plant sorting performance. It describes what is at the heart of AI, how everyone experiences it every day and opens the reader’s mind to recognize that the term ‘robot sorter’ is not just a machine with sorting arms.

Readers can also learn the four critical components shared by all optical sorters, what different sorting technologies are available for the recycler’s toolbox, and software’s role in sorting. Processing software is critical to the sorting process and should be developed specifically for the type of sorting technology employed, so the recycler can maximise material recovery.

The eBook concludes with the message that, while not new to the recycling industry, the use of AI and deep datasets is expanding, which is helping to increase material processing speed, achieve higher recovery rates of the most complex material fractions, and maximise circularity by bringing more high-quality recyclates into the loop. Together, optical sorters – both with valve block as well as robotic arm ejectors – enable the workforce to be more efficient and thus lower overall operating costs for the recycler. To be most effective, however, these sorters must be positioned in the line as part of a holistic approach to the automated circuit.

Those interested in learning more can download a copy of the new TOMRA eBook on robots.