14/04/2023

PEACOC project successfully tests the Roller Sorting and the Magnetic Density Separation processes for PCBA components separation

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) conducted a series of experimental activities as part of the PEACOC project to assess the effectiveness of the Roller Sorting and the Magnetic Density Separation (MDS) processes. The primary objective of the research focused on consolidating the components containing gold (Au), silver (Ag) and palladium (Pd) with relatively high recoveries. The experimental work testing the performance of these two processes involved a roller sorter, a superconducting magnet, a magnetic fluid and a separation container precisely tailored after running various simulation models.  

The Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) components dismantled from motherboards were classified into target and non-target components, while the Roller Sorting and the MDS experiment carried out the separation between them. The results in the final development report have confirmed the successful separation of components containing Au, Ag and Pd from less valuable components. The research team at TU Delft has also undertaken further design work for the MDS pilot plant, which is intended for continuous mass production with minimising the consumption of magnetic fluid. The research team is currently preparing the necessary devices.   

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