The Investigation of Separability of Particles Smaller Than 5mm by Eddy‐Current Separation Technology – Part II: Novel Design Concepts

Separability and separation mechanisms of small particles in modern rotating type eddycurrent separators (ECSs) were discussed in Part I. In order to address problems associated with this design concept, a number of novel ECSs, each with a unique design, have been developed. Part II reports on investigation into the separability and separation principles for various materials smaller than 5 mm, including fine copper wires, in three new devices: the redesigned Delft vortical ECS (VECS), prototype TNO ECS and a laboratory wet ECS (WECS). It is found that TNO ECS and WECS are more practical tools for separation of small metal particles. In particular, WECS is able to recover approximately 80% of very fine copper wires, with 0.5mm diameter and 2mm length. Separation principles for WECS are discussed in greater detail than other design concepts in the present study. It appears that the fledgling WECS will be most promising in the future for proccssing small particles. Further, aluminum separation from the —10 mm fraction of electronic scrap has been carried out using TNO ECS. It transpires that both the recovery and the grade of the aluminum concentrate are superior to those obtained with the rotary bolted‐drum ECS of any type.