virvelströmsseparatorer

Virvelströmsseparatorer, also known as eddy current separators, are non-contact devices used to separate conductive materials from non-conductive materials. They are particularly effective for separating non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper from waste streams or other bulk materials. The fundamental principle behind their operation is electromagnetic induction.

A virvelströmsseparator consists of a rapidly rotating magnetic rotor, typically made of powerful permanent magnets or electromagnets, housed within a non-metallic housing. As the material to be sorted passes over this rotor, the changing magnetic field induces electrical currents, known as eddy currents, within any conductive particles present. These eddy currents, in turn, generate their own magnetic fields.

The interaction between the magnetic field of the rotor and the magnetic field generated by the eddy currents creates a repulsive force. This force is strongest in non-ferrous metals. Due to this repulsion, conductive materials are propelled forward and away from the main material flow, allowing for their separation. Non-conductive materials, lacking electrical conductivity, do not experience this induced magnetic force and follow their natural trajectory.

Virvelströmsseparatorer find widespread application in various industries, including recycling plants for separating aluminum cans from plastics and paper, in the mining industry for separating valuable conductive ores, and in the processing of industrial waste to recover precious metals. Their efficiency depends on factors such as the size and conductivity of the target materials, the speed of the rotor, and the design of the separator itself.