The scrap metal recycling industry is taking advantage of emerging technologies in sorting, processing, AI, and data-driven analytics to improve recycling rates. Technological advancements in scrap metal processing include several different mechanisms to enhance the efficiency of recycling companies, improving environmental benefits and profitability.
Technological Advancements in Scrap Metal Sorting and Processing Materials
1. Sensors, Lasers and X-Rays
Sensors and automation have been among the most significant technological developments in the scrap metal industry. By using sensors to monitor the quality and quantity of scrap metal as it is being processed, scrap yards can optimize their operations and minimize waste.
Today, sensors and sorting machines do much of the work that was done by hand. Recycling companies use x-ray technology and infrared scanning to sort non-magnetic metals. Laser object detection (LOD) is used to identify non-metals so they can be removed before processing. Laser technology for scrap metal processing can result in significant savings by retaining more recyclable material in a faster period.
The use of XRF, or x-ray fluorescence, can positively identify numerous alloy grades and rapidly analyze their chemical composition at material transfer points and thus help guarantee the quality of the product. Handheld XRF analyzers provide accurate and reliable material identification. These and other handheld devices using x-rays and lasers detect metals, alloys and contaminants. This is critical because today there are more different types and grades of metals than there were in the past, requiring more sophisticated processes to identify the material.
2. Robotics
Robotics is another tool for improving material sorting, separation, handling and transportation. The use of robotics has allowed scrap yards to reduce their labor costs and increase efficiency, while improving safety involved with potentially dangerous tasks.
Collaborative robotics, or cobots, are being used increasingly in the metals recycling industry. Cobots use cameras, robotic arms, grippers, and conveyor systems to lift, move, and stack materials as needed, and can perform a wide range of tasks such as material handling, assembly, inspection, and maintenance alongside human workers.
3. Drones
Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can transform scrapyard inventory management. Using light detection and ranging technology (LiDAR), drones can create 3D models of stockpiles and estimate the volume and weight of materials. This data provides valuable insights into inventory levels, enabling scrapyards to optimize storage space and transportation plans. Drones can also monitor and identify potential safety hazards in a scrapyard.
4. Artificial Intelligence in the Recycling Process
In the metals recycling industry AI is being used to predict market trends and help recyclers make informed decisions regarding the buying, selling, and inventory management of scrap metals. AI algorithms can analyze large volumes of market data – including prices, supply and demand, and trade patterns – and then identify patterns within the data to predict future market trends. This helps recyclers plan their operations better by optimizing production and managing inventory based on the expected demand for specific metals.
5. Blockchain
Scrap metal recyclers are exploring blockchain technology to address challenges related to material traceability, transparency, and authentication. Using blockchain, transactions and transportation are recorded and documented, ensuring a reliable record of each step from collection to processing. Blockchain verifies the authenticity of recycled metals by storing information on the origin, composition, and quality control data of the material. More industry-wide collaboration on blockchain is needed before widespread adoption becomes possible.
6. E-waste
The volume of electronic devices entering the waste stream poses additional challenges requiring new technology. Although these devices are made with precious metals, they contain such minute amounts that recovering them is not cost effective without more technologically advanced and sophisticated equipment. Some large recyclers today are using infrared and x-ray technology to sort out valuable metals in the e-waste stream. Other technologies, such as pyrolysis and plasma arc melting, are being developed to recycle difficult-to-process electronics and batteries.
7. Data-driven decisions with software
Data-driven analytics using recycling software is another technological advancement in the scrap metal industry. By collecting and analyzing data on the types and quantities of scrap metal being processed, scrap yards can make informed decisions about how to best allocate their resources.
Software has enabled technological advances for recycling companies in:
- Routing – Routing software has enabled recyclers to optimize their truck fleet routing. Utilizing this technology decreases energy consumption, increases efficiency, and improves client interaction.
- Inventory management – Software programs can help scrap metal recycling companies manage, analyze and optimize inventory flow. A scrap metal recycling software system should allow you to: print and scan barcodes, define categories of material and track its pricing, allow for accurately entering data and integrate with other modules of the software for even greater efficiencies.
- Anti-theft compliance – A good recycling software will utilize technology to facilitate compliance with state and local anti-theft laws. Scrap metal recyclers can use cameras, digital signature and thumbprint capture pads and other scrap yard hardware that will interface with programs to create reports that can be uploaded to the authorities for compliance.
- Document signing – A premium scrap metal recycling software will allow companies to obtain digital signatures instead of relying on paper documents. ScrapWare Corporation, which provides software to the scrap metal recycling industry, has teamed up with e-signature company DocuSign to deliver this technology to its customers. ScrapWare’s e-signature product, ScrapScribe™, is technology that will streamline the business process, reduce user errors, and remove bottlenecks associated with moving pieces of paper.
What the Future Holds
Looking into the future scrap metal recyclers can anticipate more complicated products and materials entering the waste stream. Recyclers and researchers are continuing to develop and implement more innovations to meet these challenges and make recycling more efficient, more prevalent and less expensive. The result will be more recycled material available to manufacturers, less material ending up in a landfill and more conservation of natural resources.
About ScrapWare Corporation: Since 1989, Rockville, Maryland-based ScrapWare Corporation has been the software of choice for the recycling industry. Its ease of installation and simplicity saves users time and money while helping them achieve compliance and maintain accurate business insights. With state-of-the-art functionality tailored to each organization’s unique requirements, ScrapWare is an advanced dynamic software solution that alleviates the most pressing recycling industry worries. For more information, please call (301) 517-8500 or visit https://www.scrapware.com/.