TOMRA launches next generation multi-capacity sorting machine

TOMRA Sorting Recycling has launched its latest high-precision sorting machine, which it says offers a higher level of precision and reduced material loss in plastics recycling.

The new ‘AUTOSORT FLAKE’ combines colour detection and enhanced material information to maximise the recovery of high-quality recycled products.

In his launch statement, TOMRA Sorting's Product Manager Recycling, Valerio Sama, said: “Compared to our first generation flake sorter introduced in 2010, the new generation is able to do the job of two separate units and with a much higher degree of precision reducing the loss of good material.

“The latest advance is a clear example of partnering with our customers to develop optimal results. Our new AUTOSORT FLAKE has combined a field-proven mechanical setup with experienced in-house R&D to deliver another industry milestone. As a result, TOMRA Sorting Recycling can offer a complete bottles-to-flake solution for upgrading plastics. “

TOMRA says the AUTOSORT FLAKE's next-generation sensor technology also detects metal, and its twin-processing mode offers customers the best possible waste throughput together with a constant high-calibre output, all from a single machine.

Outlining the economic benefits, Sama added: “TOMRA sensor-based sorters can create value at various steps of the process of plastics recycling. Depending on the needs and demand, it is also possible to combine different TOMRA sensor-based sorting equipment at various steps of the process to achieve even greater results. The AUTOSORT and AUTOSORT FLAKE combination provides the highest – and most consistent – yield in the industry. “

Commenting on the advantages from a customer perspective, David Bourge, Plant Manager of SUEZ, Regene Atlantique, said: “Thanks to the partnership with TOMRA, we´ve been able to optimize our PET recycling operations. By combining AUTOSORT (bottles sorter) with AUTOSORT FLAKE (flake sorter), we´ve increased our high-quality product yield by 200 percent, resulting in considerably higher revenue – almost immediately through the central control computer (CCC) we are able to monitor, control, and greatly improve our production on a real-time basis. At every stage, the investment decision has resulted in quick payback.”

The AUTOSORT FLAKE uses TOMRA's patented ‘FLYING BEAM’ technology combined with its newly developed FOURLINE 2mm optic module, which is currently the highest available NIR resolution on the market of sensor-based sorting equipment.

The company originally intended to launch the new sorter at the Plastics Recycling Show (PRS) in Brussels, on 25 & 26 November 2015, however, after the event was cancelled due to security threats, the launch was transformed into a digital campaign.