Sorting device to separate bulky scrap e.g. mixed plastics - draws air up through centre tube in the material inside funnel fitted with fixed and moving baffles to draw up lighter fractions

摘要

Bulky material, and preferably scrap packaging materials, are measured out and separated by air draught. In the process the material is loosened in a funnel-like container by a tube (or similar) which dips into the material and is rotated or given a pulsating motion; in addition a current or air is drawn out from the bottom of the tube. Pref. a container (1) has the centre tube (3) which is driven (2) e.g. in rotation or axial reciprocation in the filling (14) of the material. Air is drawn up (7) the tube (3). Bulky material is loosened up by moving members (4) and fixed cutters (5) or similar and is moved downwards. ADVANTAGE - The process cuts out problems of existing systems such as need for sorting by hand and clogging. It can be regulated as required, by altering the frequency of movements in the tube and discharge rate. The process can be used for separating lighter fractions (e.g. films) from heavier materials such as bottles, and cans.