How does sand separate non-ferrous metals?
16/12/2021
Aerated sand can efficiently separate non ferrous metals by their density. Such a system is called a fluidised bed separator.
At a time when cutting-edge technology seems to dominate the headlines, a lot can be said for keeping things simple - less moving parts to go wrong and no costly calibration or time consuming software updates to make.
Our SandFlo system is based on an annular trough where sand is continuously circulated using vibrating motors.
Air is fed into a section of the base, creating a buoyant fluidised bed of sand. Particles will sink according to their density. Light metals like aluminium remain on the surface, heavier metals such as zinc, brass and copper will sink deeper. The aluminium is removed on the first outlet and the remainder continues around the trough and exits at the second outlet.
Two adjustments can be made. The height of the splitter, subject to material size being processed, and the air chamber to suit the density of the sand.
The SandFlo offers many benefits to metal recycling plants. It can process 2-2.5 tonnes of material per hour and only requires a single operator. By saving costs on manual pickers, SandFlo typically pays for itself in 18 months.