Tomra Recycling has launched GAINnext, a cutting-edge AI technology designed to improve wrought aluminum scrap recycling. This advanced system uses deep learning to separate cast aluminum from wrought aluminum, improving material quality and recycling efficiency. By reducing unwanted alloying elements, like silicon, GAINnext helps recyclers achieve high-purity aluminum fractions.
GAINnext and X-Tract: A Powerful Combination for Superior Sorting
GAINnext complements Tomra’s X-Tract technology, which uses X-ray transmission (XRT) to sort metals based on atomic density. X-Tract initially separates mixed nonferrous metals, such as zorba, creating a high-quality fraction containing wrought aluminum. GAINnext then refines this fraction by removing low-alloy cast metals, resulting in purer wrought aluminum.
GAINnext uses high-speed RGB color cameras that process tens of thousands of images per millisecond. This system classifies materials by shape, size, and dimension, ensuring accurate sorting with up to 2,000 ejections per minute. This high throughput makes it ideal for large-scale recycling operations looking to produce premium-quality aluminum.
Further Refinement with Autosort Pulse
For even higher precision in aluminum sorting, GAINnext can be paired with Tomra’s Autosort Pulse system. Launched in 2023, Autosort Pulse uses dynamic laser-induced plasma spectroscopy (Dynamic LIBS) to identify different aluminum alloy families, like 5xxx and 6xxx. This combination of GAINnext, X-Tract, and Autosort Pulse offers the most advanced material separation technology available on the market.
Benefits for Recyclers and the Aluminum Industry
Tomra experts believe GAINnext is a game-changer for the aluminum recycling industry. Tom Jansen, Head of Metals Segment Sales at Tomra Recycling, says that deep learning technology boosts the capabilities of traditional sorting methods. GAINnext helps recyclers produce smelter-ready, high-purity aluminum at a lower cost per ton, making it a cost-effective option for businesses focused on refining materials.
Giuseppe Petro Granara, Segment Manager for Metals – Americas at Tomra, explains that GAINnext provides a cost-efficient alternative to manual sorting. Its adaptability and high throughput also make it suitable for other industries beyond metal recycling.
Since introducing its deep learning technology in 2019, Tomra has proven GAINnext’s effectiveness in various recycling sectors, including waste, plastics, paper, metals, and wood. The expansion of GAINnext applications is part of Tomra’s broader AI strategy, with new innovations expected soon.
Testing and Adoption Across North America
Tomra’s metals recovery solutions, including GAINnext, are available in North America through its exclusive partner, Wendt Corp. Recyclers can test their aluminum and wrought materials at Wendt’s Test Center, which features X-Tract, GAINnext, and Autosort Pulse technology.
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