TOMRA launches new X-TRACT X6 FINES machine, capable of sorting metal fractions of unprecedented smallness

Increasing the sensitivity of the high-resolution X-ray camera has made it possible to detect and sort grain sizes as small as 5 – 40 mm, thus measurably reducing product losses. Extensive validation runs of the X-TRACT X6 FINES in high-throughput applications demonstrated the machine’s ability to consistently attain unrivalled purity levels of 98 – 99 %.

Like X-TRACT, X-TRACT X6 FINES is equipped with TOMRA’s Duoline^® Dual ENERGY Techno-logy. This employs two independent devices with different spectral sensitivities, so that materials are sorted regardless of the material’s thickness. By detecting and prioritizing between single object processing and area processing, Duoline^® recognizes differences in objects overlapping on the sorting line, a significant advantage when lines are running higher throughputs.

Another useful advantage is the provision of multi-density channels. Whereas previous X-TRACT models sorted materials according to two classes, separating it into high-density and low-density fractions, the new X-TRACT X6 FINES features multiple density channels. This allows a greater number of classes for separating materials according to density, achieving greater sorting precision even with mixed metals and small grain sizes.

Valerio Sama, Vice President and Head of Product Management Recycling at TOMRA, commented: “The smallness of the metal grains that can now be detected and sorted by TOMRA’s X-TRACT technology is unrivalled. This will enable sorting operations to unlock even more value from secondary materials. But while our X-ray sorting technology reaches new levels of sophistication, the new X-TRACT X6 FINES retains the familiar controls of the standard X-TRACT and brings the peace of mind that comes with an industry-proven technology.”