ZenRobotics to achieve higher purity for US-based metals recycling company
08.05.2024ZenRobotics® has reached a significant milestone in their global expansion by securing a major deal with a prominent metals recycling company based in the United States. Under this agreement, three ZenRobotics Heavy Pickers will be deployed to effectively separate copper from its ferrous metals stream.
With the volume of scrap metal projected to double by 2050, the demand for efficient metal sorting has never been more pressing
© Terex / ZenRobotics
With the volume of scrap metal projected to double by 2050, the demand for efficient metal sorting has never been more pressing. However, the rising copper content in shredded scrap metal presents a considerable challenge for steel producers striving to maintain the quality of their steel products. To meet industry standards, steel producers typically require recycled steel to contain less than 0.1 – 0.2 % copper content, without resorting to additional virgin pig iron. Conventional sorting technologies, such as multistage magnets and ballistic separators, struggle to effectively reduce copper contamination, intensified by the scarcity of manual labour for hand sorting.
Recognising the need for advanced sorting solutions to address the increasing demand for copper-free recycled steel, the ZenRobotics Heavy Picker, equipped with cutting-edge AI technology, offers precision in identifying and sorting non-ferrous metals such as copper from ferrous waste streams. Additionally, the system provides real-time reports on sorting operations, empowering users to optimise their processes and achieve desired material purities through a user-friendly intuitive interface.
The ZenRobotics Heavy Picker offers precision in sorting non-ferrous metals such as copper from ferrous waste streams
© Terex / ZenRobotics
By automating the sorting process, the ZenRobotics solution enables scrap processing companies, particularly those that handle end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) to reduce carbon emissions and comply with stringent regulations governing copper content in recycled steel. It also enhances operational efficiency while promoting safer working conditions by minimising the risks associated with manual sorting in hazardous environments.
Juha Mieskonen, Sales Director for ZenRobotics said, "After rigorous testing, it became evident that our Heavy Picker can deliver a ferrous metal stream with less than 0.1% copper content, meeting the proposed targets and legislative requirements for steel producers. With ZenRobotics innovative solutions, steel producers can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of metal recycling, embracing sustainable practices while driving operational excellence while achieving a superior end-product quality.”
Beyond operational advantages, customers can anticipate a rapid return on investment (ROI) by investing in ZenRobotics solutions, with projected ROI timelines ranging from 12 to 18 months (the ROI calculation integrates factors such as efficiency gains, cost reductions, and revenue enhancements resulting from implementing the machine compared to traditional methods). This is further facilitated by cost savings resulting from ZenRobotics' integration into Terex, making robotic solutions more accessible and cost-effective than ever before.
