AI-based object identifier from STEINERT closes the loop in aluminum sorting
A new laser grid for the STEINERT PLASMAX | LIBS can process grain sizes down to 15 millimetres
As demand for high-grade recycled aluminum continued to grow, STEINERT is advancing its sorting systems on two fronts. Closing the aluminum loop requires both high throughput and metal-ready quality. A new laser grid for the STEINERT PLASMAX | LIBS enables the processing of grain sizes down to 15 millimetres. The other innovation is enhanced cast and wrought separation on the STEINERT KSS | XT L, supported by the AI-based Intelligent Object.Identifier (IOI).
The STEINERT PLASMAX now offers finer material and higher throughput
A new laser grid option for the STEINERT PLASMAX brings two central improvements: a higher resolution that opens up a broader grain size spectrum for reliable detection, and increased power that raises overall material output.
STEINERT's unique laser grid ensures reliable detection even with high belt occupancy, enabling maximum recovery at a belt speed of 4 m/s. With further development, STEINERT is extending the sorting range towards smaller grain sizes. Higher resolution enables the system to recognise particles down to 15 millimetres, while increased processing performance raises recovery.
These advances are built on a proven system with 3 material discharges, allowing several product streams to be separated. High object rates support high throughput, while multi-spot analysis uses multiple measurement points per piece to ensure reliable detection.
The STEINERT.dashboard has also been expanded with further features that support production. It provides operating teams with relevant information and helps them maintain stable sorting performance during day-to-day operation.
The development addresses a central requirement in aluminum recycling: recovering more valuable material, including smaller particles, without compromising the throughput required in industrial processing.
A new AI landscape improves the separation of cast and wrought aluminum
STEINERT will also introduce an AI-supported solution to improve the separation of cast and wrought aluminum. A key part of the approach is STEINERT's Intelligent Object.Identifier. IOI combines a wide variety of AI-based methods where object-based information from all available sensor sources and spectral analyses are used to optimise material classification.
In operation, the STEINERT KSS | XT L with IOI uses an optimised sort filter setup to detect low-silicon (Si) alloys. This maintains high wrought-aluminum purity while increasing its output by up to 40 percent compared with conventional sorting approaches.
Existing STEINERT KSS | XT L sorting systems can therefore be retrofitted and benefit from the enhanced classification approach without requiring the replacement of the complete machine.
