Recycling sorting system AUTOSORT® PULSE

industriallaserwith LIBS spectrometer

Overview
AUTOSORT™ PULSE is a dynamic LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) sorting system designed for alloy-series classification of aluminum scrap. Using a small number of dynamic lasers and advanced sensors, it performs real-time multi- and single-point scanning to deliver alloy-specific fractions suitable for direct remelting while reducing upstream material preparation.

Key benefits

• Alloy-series sorting that produces high-purity fractions suitable for direct remelting
• High-throughput processing compatible with industrial production flows
• Effective on painted, coated or dusty materials, reducing material pre-processing
• AI-enhanced detection and object singulation to manage overlapping or clustered items
• Compact footprint and straightforward integration into new or existing lines
• Optional cloud monitoring and analytics via TOMRA Insight

Features

• Dynamic LIBS laser architecture: 4 dynamic lasers covering the material stream
• Multi- and single-point scanning modes, including single-point focus for sharper detection
• 3D object scanning and shape recognition for improved classification
• AI-based singulation and overlapping-object detection
• Bulk feed configuration for continuous industrial throughput
• Digital option: TOMRA Insight for remote monitoring and data access

How it works
Unlike static systems with many fixed lasers, AUTOSORT™ PULSE uses dynamic LIBS scanning: a limited set of movable lasers scans items on the conveyor in real time while 3D sensors capture shape and position. LIBS spectra are combined with 3D data and AI algorithms to classify alloys by series and trigger targeted ejection, enabling separation of high-purity fractions with fewer components and lower maintenance requirements.

Use cases
Designed for recycling operations processing large volumes of post-production and post-consumer aluminum scrap. Typical applications include separation of 5xxx and 6xxx series alloys to produce remeltable fractions, post-shredder and non-ferrous flows where alloy purity and recovery are critical.

Additional notes
Material tests report consistent purity levels ≥ 95% in many practical flows; specific configurations can reach higher recovery depending on feed characteristics. The reduced component count supports lower total cost of ownership and flexible scanning modes adapt to varying production demands.

Technical specifications

• Processing speed: up to 250 objects per second
• Throughput: up to 15 t/h on a 1.2 m belt
• Grain size range: 10–150 mm
• Purity: tests demonstrate ≥ 95% (claims up to ~97% recovery in specific modes)
• Laser architecture: 4 dynamic lasers
• Suitable materials: post-production and post-consumer aluminum scrap, including painted, coated or dusty alloys
• Scanning capabilities: multi- and single-point modes, 3D object scanning, single-point focus, AI-based singulation
• Digital option: TOMRA Insight (cloud-based monitoring and analytics)