Optimization of Weee Sorting Based on an Electrostatically Assisted Aspiration System

This article presents the results of an experimental investigation into the separation of waste electrical cables using a new installation based on electrostatically assisted aspiration system. The installation operates with a plate conveyor that promotes the attachment of conductive particles to its surface under the influence of electrostatic forces, aiding in the separation process by aspirating the insulating particles. The operation of the installation is controlled by several factors such as the rotation speed of the aspirator motor, the high voltage applied to the electrodes integrated into the conveyor plates, and the waste flow rate. This installation has demonstrated promising results in the separation of electrical cable waste with a particle size larger than 2 mm. Its major advantage lies in its ability to recover conductive particles with various sizes. Additionally, it exhibits exceptional productivity that exceeds $650 ~\text{kg} / \mathrm{h}$ in a 1 m wide installation, making it suitable for industrial applications. Based on the experimental models developed in this study, optimization techniques were applied to identify the optimal operating point of the installation.