Optical sorting machine is a kind of equipment that uses optical principles and technologies to identify and classify materials. It is widely used in the waste plastic recycling industry, especially in the sorting process of PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The following will explain in detail how the optical sorting machine sorts PET:
1. Optical recognition technology
Spectral analysis: Optical sorting machines identify materials by detecting the spectral characteristics of the material surface. Different types of plastics, such as PET, PVC, PP, etc., have different spectral absorption and reflection characteristics. For example, PET exhibits a unique absorption peak under near-infrared light of a specific wavelength, and this property is used for its rapid recognition and sorting.
Color recognition: In addition to spectral analysis, optical sorting machines can also sort PET by color differences. The color information of the material is captured by a high-definition camera, and image processing technology is used to distinguish PET bottles or other plastics of different colors.
2. Mechanical separation technology
Air blowing system: After the optical recognition system determines the location of the PET, the optical sorter will blow the identified PET out from other materials through the compressed air injection system to achieve physical separation.
3. Automation and intelligence
Automatic adjustment: Modern optical sorting machines can automatically adjust parameters such as spectral resolution, recognition algorithm sensitivity, etc. according to real-time monitoring data of feed ingredients to adapt to the characteristics of different batches of materials and ensure the sorting effect.
Intelligent recognition software: Equipped with advanced image processing and pattern recognition software, it can self-learn and optimize sorting strategies to improve PET recognition accuracy and sorting efficiency.
4. High efficiency and energy saving
High-speed processing: The processing speed of the optical sorter is much higher than that of manual sorting, and it can process several tons of PET per hour, greatly improving the recycling efficiency.
Energy saving: Due to the use of efficient light sources and energy-saving design, the optical sorter has low energy consumption, which helps to reduce the carbon emissions of the entire recycling process.
5. Wide range of applications
Wide applicability: The optical sorter is not only suitable for the sorting of PET bottles, but also for sorting other types of plastics, such as PVC,PP,PE,ABS,PC, etc., and has a wide range of applications.
Customized service: According to the needs of different customers, the optical sorter can also be customized to meet specific sorting needs, such as the identification of transparency, color or specific impurities.
- In addition, in order to better understand the performance of the optical sorter in actual operation, the following are some relevant operating points and precautions:
- Keep the feeding uniform to avoid misidentification caused by material accumulation.
- Regularly maintain and calibrate the optical system to ensure that the recognition accuracy is not affected.
- Adjust the recognition parameters according to the material characteristics, such as spectral range, recognition threshold, etc., to adapt to different types and states of PET.
- Pay attention to the influence of ambient light and avoid strong light direct or reflected interference with the recognition effect.
In general, the optical sorting machine achieves efficient and accurate sorting of PET through advanced optical recognition technology and mechanical separation system. This not only improves the quality and value of recycled plastics, but also contributes to environmental protection, reducing resource waste and environmental pollution. With the continuous advancement of technology and the growth of market demand, the application of optical sorting machines will be more extensive and become an important equipment in the field of plastic recycling and resource recycling.








