EP3318339A1 - Device and method for sorting aluminium scrap - Google Patents

Device and method for sorting aluminium scrap Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3318339A1
EP3318339A1 EP16197186.6A EP16197186A EP3318339A1 EP 3318339 A1 EP3318339 A1 EP 3318339A1 EP 16197186 A EP16197186 A EP 16197186A EP 3318339 A1 EP3318339 A1 EP 3318339A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fractions
fraction
aluminum scrap
conveyor belt
neutron
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Application number
EP16197186.6A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3318339B1 (en
Inventor
John Paul Hermann KETTLER
Andreas Wilhelm HAVENITH
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AMAG casting GmbH
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AMAG casting GmbH
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Publication date
Application filed by AMAG casting GmbH filed Critical AMAG casting GmbH
Priority to EP16197186.6A priority Critical patent/EP3318339B1/en
Priority to US16/347,542 priority patent/US11358179B2/en
Priority to JP2019515233A priority patent/JP7055130B2/en
Priority to PCT/EP2017/078245 priority patent/WO2018083273A1/en
Publication of EP3318339A1 publication Critical patent/EP3318339A1/en
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Publication of EP3318339B1 publication Critical patent/EP3318339B1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/346—Sorting according to other particular properties according to radioactive properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/342—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
    • B07C5/3425—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour of granular material, e.g. ore particles, grain
    • B07C5/3427—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour of granular material, e.g. ore particles, grain by changing or intensifying the optical properties prior to scanning, e.g. by inducing fluorescence under UV or x-radiation, subjecting the material to a chemical reaction
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C2501/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material to be sorted
    • B07C2501/0036—Sorting out metallic particles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/36—Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
    • B07C5/38—Collecting or arranging articles in groups

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for sorting, in particular comminuted, aluminum scrap according to alloy groups.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object to provide an apparatus and a method for sorting aluminum scrap, which is characterized by high mass throughput and high reliability in the sorting of aluminum scrap in alloy groups.
  • the aluminum scrap is divided into fractions in a first process step, a reliable separation of the aluminum scrap can optionally be achieved and it can also be ensured that the determination of the alloying group takes place exclusively on a single fraction , Mutual influences by superpositions of the energy spectra, as can be expected from the simultaneous measurement of several fractions, can thus be stably prevented.
  • the fractions of the aluminum scrap are subsequently irradiated with at least one neutron source, the gamma radiation emitted by the individual fraction by this neutron irradiation is taken up by at least one detector and a power spectrum belonging to the respective fraction formed therefrom, then the chemical composition of the individual fractions can be determined easily and with high precision. If, in addition, a relative ratio of the weight proportions of at least two alloying elements of this fraction is determined on the basis of such an energy spectrum, then this fraction can be allocated on the basis of this relative ratio of the alloy group corresponding to it - without any particular expense but nevertheless reliably. Subsequently, these fractions can be sorted according to the alloying groups assigned to them. The latter, inter alia, because no complex process calibrations, as they are known from the prior art, are required.
  • alloy groups is understood to mean a classification of the aluminum alloys into groups according to EN 573-3 / 4 for aluminum wrought alloys or aluminum casting alloys according to DIN EN 1706.
  • the process according to the invention is suitable for sorting the aluminum scrap fractions into 3xxx, 4xxx, 5xxx, etc. alloy groups.
  • a fraction means several or even individual aluminum scrap particles.
  • a fraction can also be understood as meaning a predefined subset of the aluminum scrap powder or granules become.
  • NAA neutral activation analysis
  • PGNAA prompt gammaneutron activation analysis
  • the aluminum scrap is provided in chambers separated from one another and thus divided into fractions, a grouping or separation of scrap parts into fractions can be carried out in a simple process manner.
  • the chambers may each have a predefined volume and / or serve to receive fractions having the same or different grain size.
  • the conveyor system comprises an endless conveyor belt
  • the neutron source provided between the load and slack side of the conveyor belt irradiates the fractions of the aluminum scrap through the conveyor belt and the gamma radiation emitted by the fractions through this neutron irradiation exceeds that of the above Lasttrums of the conveyor belt provided detector is added. Due to this inventive arrangement of neutron source and detector, the influence of the conveyor on the sensitivity of the detectors can be kept very low. It is also possible to achieve a particularly high mass throughput, since a more variable handling of aluminum scrap is permitted.
  • the foundations for a process can be created, several fractions can be detected simultaneously and in a particularly simple way - even with comparatively few devices, such as detectors, etc. Nevertheless the process according to the invention always ensures a high degree of selectivity.
  • the method can be further improved in handling when the aluminum scrap is provided in separate chambers of the conveyor belt of the conveyor, in particular the conveyor belt.
  • the accuracy and reliability of the method can be further increased.
  • the neutrons can be thermalized by the moderator - ie reduced in their kinetic energy to below 100 meV - whereby the cross section of the neutrons with the atomic nuclei of the material to be examined fraction is significantly increased.
  • the accuracy of the method can therefore be improved, since the increased cross-section results in a larger yield of neutron activation products.
  • the neutron field emanating from the neutron source can be uniformed and also the direction of the radiation is adjusted, whereby a uniform neutron field over the entire examination area can be achieved. This in turn is conducive to the reliability of the sorting process.
  • the mass flow rate in the process can be further increased if several fractions are irradiated simultaneously with a neutron source. It is thus possible, for example, to simultaneously subject fractions arranged side by side and / or one after another to one another - the reproducibility of the method can be further increased on account of the comparability of the measurement of several fractions simultaneously irradiated.
  • the mass throughput of the method can be further increased.
  • detectors are provided side by side and / or in succession and each assigned to a fraction for measuring the gamma radiation emitted by this fraction, it is possible to simultaneously subject a plurality of aluminum scrap fractions to a measurement, whereby a mutual influence of the emitted gamma radiation of individual fraction is reduced.
  • the mass flow rate of the process can thus be significantly increased while still high process accuracy.
  • these detectors are shielded from one another laterally, then it can be steadily ensured that - especially with simultaneous measurement of several fractions - the emitted gamma radiation only strikes the detector assigned to the respective fraction. A falsification of the measurement due to a superposition of the gamma radiation of several fractions to be detected is therefore avoidable.
  • a structurally simple and highly accurate device in the sorting of, in particular crushed, aluminum scrap for alloy groups with high mass flow rate is achievable with a conveyor system for conveying fractions of aluminum scrap, with a measuring device, which measuring device at least one neutron source for irradiating the fractions conveyed by the conveyor, at least one detector for receiving the gamma radiation emitted by the fractions by said neutron irradiation, and an arithmetic unit for allocating the fractions to an alloy group depending on their respective relative proportions of the weights of at least two of their alloying elements; which relative ratio of the arithmetic unit is determined from the energy spectrum of the gamma radiation detected by the respective fraction, and with a sorting system which sorts the fractions conveyed by the conveyor system according to the alloy group assigned to them by the measuring device.
  • a comparatively high mass throughput and a high selectivity can be achieved by the device according to the invention if the neutron source is provided between the load and the slack side of the conveyor belt of the conveyor system. It is thus provided by a device that allows fractions to be arranged particularly variable or to supply the measuring device, without having to accept any impairment in terms of reproducibility. Furthermore, so that the neutron source or lenses etc. can be provided comparatively close to the conveyor belt, without having to fear contact with the conveyor or subsidized by this aluminum scrap. With a safe irradiation of the fractions can be expected, which may be beneficial to the reliability of the device in the sorting of aluminum scrap for alloy groups.
  • the conveyor system of the conveyor system can be used to divide the aluminum scrap, if this has separate chambers.
  • the volume of the fraction can also be limited in a structurally simple manner, which can benefit the selectivity of the method and the sorting quality of the device.
  • the conveyor belt can have several in rows next to each other and columns arranged one behind the other chambers, so as to increase the mass flow rate of the device.
  • the selectivity provided by the device and thus its sorting quality can be further improved if a lens designed as a moderator is provided between the neutron source and the fraction.
  • a method 1 for sorting crushed or shredded aluminum scrap 2 is shown, in which the aluminum scrap 2 with a device 3, for example, crushed to 10 to 120 mm and / or sieved and / or homogenized or subsequently divided into fractions 4 and / or is isolated. These fractions 4 are finally sorted by a sorting system 5 according to alloy groups 6.1 (eg: aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 6xxx), 6.2 (aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 7xxx), 6.3 (aluminum casting alloy of the alloy group 3xx-AlSiCu).
  • alloy groups 6.1 eg: aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 6xxx
  • 6.2 aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 7xxx
  • 6.3 aluminum casting alloy of the alloy group 3xx-AlSiCu
  • the aluminum scrap 2 is filled into separate chambers 14 and thus divided into individual fractions 4.
  • a fraction 4 can consist of a single or a plurality of aluminum scrap parts or else aluminum scrap granules or powders of the aluminum scrap 2.
  • the conveyor system 15 may represent only a conveyor belt 115 in the simplest structural design, the fractions 4 of the singulator. 3 transported by the PGNAA measuring system 7 to the sorting system 5.
  • the demarcated chambers 14 are formed by drivers 15.1 and longitudinal webs 15.2 of an endless conveyor belt 15.3 of a conveyor system 15.
  • the fractions 4 of the aluminum scrap 2 are fed to a PGNAA measuring device 7, which is data-connected to the sorting system 5.
  • the fractions 4 are irradiated with neutron radiation 8 of a neutron source 9 and the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the individual fractions 4 due to the thus activated activation of their atomic nuclei is in each case recorded by a detector 11. Accordingly, there are data on the gamma rays 10 of the individual fractions 4.
  • the measurement data of the detector 11 are fed to a computing unit 12 of the measuring device 7.
  • each of these fractions 4 associated energy spectra can be formed.
  • a relative ratio of the weight fractions of at least two alloying elements of this fraction 4 is determined. Subsequently, the fractions 4 are thus assigned individually to an alloy group 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 on the basis of the relative proportions of the weight proportions of alloying elements of the arithmetic unit 12.
  • the PGNAA measuring device 7 controls the sorting system 5 in such a way or is in data connection with the sorting system 5 that a fraction 4 are sorted out according to their corresponding alloy group 6.1 or 6.2 or 6.3 in a respective container 13.
  • Such a conveyor system 15 may allow a particularly high mass flow rate in the process but also serve to separate the aluminum scrap 2 into fractions 4.
  • the neutron source 9 is provided between the load strand 15.4 and 15.1 empty strand of the conveyor belt 15.3, which thus irradiates the fractions 4 of the aluminum scrap 2 through the load strand 15.4 of the conveyor belt 15.3 therethrough.
  • the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fractions 4 is picked up by detector 11 provided above the load strand of the conveyor belt 15.3.
  • This type of arrangement of the neutron source 9 and the detector 11 creates a compact device and also allows a small interference of the conveyor 15 to the measurement, especially since the return strand 15.5 of the conveyor belt 15.3 has no influence on the irradiation of the fractions 4.
  • the method according to the invention therefore not only has a high mass throughput but also a high selectivity.
  • the neutron radiation 8 is guided from the neutron source 9 via a lens 16, before the neutron radiation 8 strikes the fractions 4.
  • the divergent neutron radiation 8 emerging from the neutron source 9 is made uniform and homogenized, so that it can be ensured that the neutron radiation 8 incident on the fractions 4 is comparable in each chamber 14.
  • the lens 16 is formed as a moderator 17, whereby the neutrons of the neutron radiation 8 thermalized, so are slowed down to kinetic energies below about 100meV.
  • the cross section of the neutron radiation 8 with the atomic nuclei of the fractions 4 can thus be greatly increased, from which the measurement accuracy of the method benefits.
  • detectors 11 are provided next to one another in the PGNAA measuring system in order to measure the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fractions 4.
  • Fig. 1 In this case, 16 detectors 11, in particular, are distributed over four rows 19 and four columns 20, and in a corresponding manner arranged in such a way Chambers 14 of the conveyor belt 15.3. A high parallelism for a high mass flow rate can be achieved with it.
  • shields 18 are provided on the detectors 11 each. By virtue of the fact that they are shielded from one another laterally, it can advantageously be ensured that only the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fraction 11 associated with the detector 11 strikes the respective detector 11. Otherwise, the emitted gamma radiation 10 of a foreign fraction 4 could otherwise be superposed with the gamma radiation 10 to be measured and thus falsify the energy spectrum. To form a reliable shield, a lead shield 18 has been proven.

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  • Analysing Materials By The Use Of Radiation (AREA)
  • Sorting Of Articles (AREA)

Abstract

Es wird eine Vorrichtung (1) und ein Verfahren zur Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinertem, Aluminiumschrott (2) nach Legierungsgruppen (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) gezeigt, bei welchem Verfahren der Aluminiumschrott (2) in Fraktionen (4) aufgeteilt wird, Fraktionen (4) des Aluminiumschrotts (2) durch mindestens eine Neutronenquelle (9) bestrahlt werden, die von der einzelnen Fraktion (4) durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebene Gammastrahlung (10) jeweils von mindestens einem Detektor (11) aufgenommen und daraus ein, der jeweiligen Fraktion (4) zugehöriges Energiespektrum gebildet wird, anhand welchem Energiespektrum ein relatives Verhältnis der Gewichtsanteile von mindestens zwei Legierungselementen dieser Fraktion (4) bestimmt und diese Fraktion (4) anhand diesem relativen Verhältnis der ihr entsprechenden Legierungsgruppe (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) zugeteilt wird und danach die Fraktionen (4) nach den ihnen zugteilten Legierungsgruppen (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) sortiert werden.A device (1) and a method for sorting, in particular comminuted, aluminum scrap (2) by alloy groups (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) are shown, in which method the aluminum scrap (2) is divided into fractions (4), fractions ( 4) of the aluminum scrap (2) are irradiated by at least one neutron source (9), which receives gamma radiation (10) emitted by the individual fraction (4) through this neutron irradiation, in each case by at least one detector (11) and from there, the respective fraction ( 4) associated energy spectrum is determined, based on which energy spectrum, a relative ratio of the weight of at least two alloying elements of this fraction (4) determined and this fraction (4) based on this relative ratio of its corresponding alloy group (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) is assigned and thereafter the fractions (4) are sorted according to the alloy groups (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) assigned to them.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinertem, Aluminiumschrott nach Legierungsgruppen.The invention relates to a method for sorting, in particular comminuted, aluminum scrap according to alloy groups.

Aus dem Stand der Technik ( US 2010/0017020 A1 ) ist ein Verfahren zur Aufbereitung von metallischem Schrott (beispielsweise Aluminium) bekannt, wobei der Schrott in Fraktionen aufgeteilt wird, welche Fraktionen durch eine Röntgenquelle mit Röntgenstrahlung bestrahlt werden. Dabei wird die von der Fraktion abgegebene Gammastrahlung von einem Detektor aufgenommen und ein der Fraktion zugehöriges Energiespektrum gebildet, anhand dessen auf die Materialzusammensetzung der Fraktion geschlossen wird. Entsprechend der auf diese Weise festgelegten Materialzusammensetzung werden die Fraktionen in Materialgruppen sortiert. Ein solches Verfahren ist jedoch nicht dazu geeignet, Fraktionen in einzelne Legierungsgruppen (bspw. von Aluminium) zu sortieren, da keine ausreichende Genauigkeit bei der Zuordnung der Energiespektren erreicht werden kann. Zudem erlauben derartige Verfahren - nicht zuletzt aufgrund der vergleichsweise hohen Messdauer - einen relativ geringen Massendurchsatz.From the prior art ( US 2010/0017020 A1 ) discloses a process for the treatment of metallic scrap (for example aluminum), wherein the scrap is divided into fractions, which fractions are irradiated by an X-ray source with X-radiation. In this case, the gamma radiation emitted by the fraction is taken up by a detector and an energy spectrum associated with the fraction is formed, on the basis of which the material composition of the fraction is deduced. According to the material composition determined in this way, the fractions are sorted into material groups. However, such a method is not suitable for sorting fractions into individual alloy groups (for example of aluminum), since sufficient accuracy in the assignment of the energy spectra can not be achieved. In addition, such methods allow a relatively low mass throughput, not least because of the comparatively long measurement duration.

Die Erfindung hat sich daher die Aufgabe gestellt, eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren zur Sortierung von Aluminiumschrott zu schaffen, welche sich durch hohen Massendurchsatz und hohe Zuverlässigkeit bei der Sortierung von Aluminiumschrott in Legierungsgruppen auszeichnet.The invention is therefore based on the object to provide an apparatus and a method for sorting aluminum scrap, which is characterized by high mass throughput and high reliability in the sorting of aluminum scrap in alloy groups.

Die Erfindung löst die gestellte Aufgabe hinsichtlich des Verfahrens durch die Merkmale des Anspruchs 1.The invention achieves the stated object with regard to the method by the features of claim 1.

Wird bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren zur Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinerten, Aluminiumschrott nach Legierungsgruppen in einem ersten Verfahrensschritt der Aluminiumschrott in Fraktionen aufgeteilt, so kann gegebenenfalls eine zuverlässige Vereinzelung des Aluminiumschrotts erreicht und zudem sichergestellt werden, dass die Bestimmung der Legierungsgruppe ausschließlich an einer einzelnen Fraktion erfolgt. Gegenseitige Beeinflussungen durch Überlagerungen der Energiespektren, wie diese bei der gleichzeitigen Messung mehrerer Fraktionen zu erwarten sind, können somit standfest verhindert werden.
Werden in weiterer Folge die Fraktionen des Aluminiumschrotts mit mindestens einer Neutronenquelle bestrahlt, die von der einzelnen Fraktion durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebene Gammastrahlung jeweils von mindestens einem Detektor aufgenommen und daraus ein, der jeweiligen Fraktion zugehöriges Energiespektrum gebildet, so kann die chemische Zusammensetzung der einzelnen Fraktionen auf einfache Weise und mit hoher Präzision ermittelt werden.
Wird zudem anhand solch eines Energiespektrum ein relatives Verhältnis der Gewichtsanteile von mindestens zwei Legierungselementen dieser Fraktion bestimmt, so können diese Fraktion anhand diesem relativen Verhältnis der ihr entsprechenden Legierungsgruppe zugeteilt werden - und zwar ohne besonderem Aufwand aber dennoch zuverlässig. In weiterer Folge können diese Fraktionen nach den ihnen zugteilten Legierungsgruppen sortiert werden. Letzteres unter anderem deshalb, weil keine aufwendige Verfahrenskalibrierungen, wie diese aus dem Stand der Technik bekannt sind, erforderlich sind.If, in the method according to the invention for sorting, in particular crushed, aluminum scrap according to alloying groups, the aluminum scrap is divided into fractions in a first process step, a reliable separation of the aluminum scrap can optionally be achieved and it can also be ensured that the determination of the alloying group takes place exclusively on a single fraction , Mutual influences by superpositions of the energy spectra, as can be expected from the simultaneous measurement of several fractions, can thus be stably prevented.
If the fractions of the aluminum scrap are subsequently irradiated with at least one neutron source, the gamma radiation emitted by the individual fraction by this neutron irradiation is taken up by at least one detector and a power spectrum belonging to the respective fraction formed therefrom, then the chemical composition of the individual fractions can be determined easily and with high precision.
If, in addition, a relative ratio of the weight proportions of at least two alloying elements of this fraction is determined on the basis of such an energy spectrum, then this fraction can be allocated on the basis of this relative ratio of the alloy group corresponding to it - without any particular expense but nevertheless reliably. Subsequently, these fractions can be sorted according to the alloying groups assigned to them. The latter, inter alia, because no complex process calibrations, as they are known from the prior art, are required.

Im Allgemeinen wird unter dem Begriff Legierungsgruppen eine Einteilung der Aluminiumlegierungen in Gruppen nach der EN 573-3/4 für Aluminiumknetlegierungen oder Aluminiumgusslegierungen nach DIN EN 1706 verstanden. So eignet sich das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren beispielsweise dazu, die Aluminiumschrott-Fraktionen in 3xxx-, 4xxx-, 5xxx- etc. Legierungsgruppen zu sortieren. Weiter wird im Allgemeinen festgehalten, dass unter einer Fraktion mehrere oder auch einzelne Aluminiumschrott-Partikel verstanden werden. Unter einer Fraktion kann aber ebenso eine vordefinierte Teilmenge des Aluminiumschrott-Pulvers bzw. -Granulats verstanden werden. Im Allgemeinen wird zudem festgehalten, dass das, dem Verfahren zugrunde liegende Messverfahren (Detektion und Ausbildung des Energiespektrums), als "neutron-activation-analysis" (NAA) bzw. im Speziellen als "prompt-gammaneutron-activation-analysis" (PGNAA) ausgebildet sein kann.In general, the term alloy groups is understood to mean a classification of the aluminum alloys into groups according to EN 573-3 / 4 for aluminum wrought alloys or aluminum casting alloys according to DIN EN 1706. For example, the process according to the invention is suitable for sorting the aluminum scrap fractions into 3xxx, 4xxx, 5xxx, etc. alloy groups. Furthermore, it is generally stated that a fraction means several or even individual aluminum scrap particles. However, a fraction can also be understood as meaning a predefined subset of the aluminum scrap powder or granules become. In general, it is also stated that the measuring method on which the method is based (detection and formation of the energy spectrum) is called "neutron activation analysis" (NAA) or in particular "prompt gammaneutron activation analysis" (PGNAA). can be trained.

Wird der Aluminiumschrott in voneinander abgegrenzten Kammern vorgesehen und damit in Fraktionen aufgeteilt, so kann auf verfahrenstechnisch einfache Weise eine Gruppierung oder Vereinzelung von Schrottteilen in Fraktionen erfolgen. Beispielsweise können die Kammern jeweils ein vordefiniertes Volumen aufweisen und/oder zur Aufnahme von Fraktionen mit gleicher oder unterschiedlicher Korngröße dienen.If the aluminum scrap is provided in chambers separated from one another and thus divided into fractions, a grouping or separation of scrap parts into fractions can be carried out in a simple process manner. For example, the chambers may each have a predefined volume and / or serve to receive fractions having the same or different grain size.

Werden die Fraktionen der Neutronenquelle von einer Förderanlage zur Bestrahlung zugeführt, kann damit nicht nur ein vergleichsweise hoher Massendurchsatz ermöglicht werden, sondern auch die Handhabung des Verfahrens weiter erleichtert werden, um für eine reproduzierbare Sortierung von Aluminiumschrott nach Legierungsgruppen zu sorgen.If the fractions of the neutron source supplied by a conveyor for irradiation, not only a relatively high mass flow rate can be made possible, but also the handling of the process can be further facilitated to ensure a reproducible sorting of aluminum scrap for alloy groups.

Die Reproduzierbarkeit des Verfahrens kann weiter verbessert werden, wenn die Förderanlage einen endlosen Fördergurt aufweist, die zwischen Last- und Leertrum des Fördergurts vorgesehene Neutronenquelle die Fraktionen des Aluminiumschrotts durch den Fördergurt hindurch bestrahlt und die von den Fraktionen durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebene Gammastrahlung von dem oberhalb des Lasttrums des Fördergurts vorgesehenen Detektor aufgenommen wird. Aufgrund dieser erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung von Neutronenquelle und Detektor kann der Einfluss der Förderanlage auf die Sensitivität der Detektoren sehr gering gehalten werden. Auch ist es derart möglich, einen besonders hohen Massendurchsatz zu erreichen, da eine variablere Handhabung von Aluminiumschrott zugelassen wird. Nicht zuletzt können derart Grundlagen für ein Verfahren geschaffen werden, mehrere Fraktionen zugleich und auf besonders einfache Weise detektiert werden - und zwar selbst mit vergleichsweise wenigen Einrichtungen, etwa Detektoren etc. Dennoch wird vom erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren stets eine hohe Trennschärfe gewährleistet.The reproducibility of the process can be further improved if the conveyor system comprises an endless conveyor belt, the neutron source provided between the load and slack side of the conveyor belt irradiates the fractions of the aluminum scrap through the conveyor belt and the gamma radiation emitted by the fractions through this neutron irradiation exceeds that of the above Lasttrums of the conveyor belt provided detector is added. Due to this inventive arrangement of neutron source and detector, the influence of the conveyor on the sensitivity of the detectors can be kept very low. It is also possible to achieve a particularly high mass throughput, since a more variable handling of aluminum scrap is permitted. Last but not least, the foundations for a process can be created, several fractions can be detected simultaneously and in a particularly simple way - even with comparatively few devices, such as detectors, etc. Nevertheless the process according to the invention always ensures a high degree of selectivity.

Das Verfahren kann in der Handhabung weiter verbessert werden, wenn der Aluminiumschrott in voneinander abgegrenzten Kammern des Fördergurts der Förderanlage, insbesondere des Förderbands, vorgesehen wird.The method can be further improved in handling when the aluminum scrap is provided in separate chambers of the conveyor belt of the conveyor, in particular the conveyor belt.

Wird die Neutronenbestrahlung über eine als Moderator ausgebildete Linse geführt, bevor diese auf die Fraktion trifft, so kann die Genauigkeit und Zuverlässigkeit des Verfahrens weiter erhöht werden. Die Neutronen können durch den Moderator thermalisiert werden - also in ihrer kinetischen Energie auf unter 100 meV reduziert werden - wodurch der Wirkungsquerschnitt der Neutronen mit den Atomkernen des Materials der zu untersuchenden Fraktion deutlich erhöhbar ist. Die Genauigkeit des Verfahrens kann demnach verbessert werden, da durch den erhöhten Wirkungsquerschnitt eine größere Ausbeute an Neutronen-Aktivierungsprodukten anfällt. Durch die Funktion des Moderators als Neutronenlinse kann zugleich während der Thermalisierung der Neutronen, das von der Neutronenquelle ausgehende Neutronenfeld vergleichmäßigt werden und auch die Richtung der Strahlung eingestellt wird, wodurch ein über den gesamten Untersuchungsbereich gleichmäßiges Neutronenfeld erreicht werden kann. Dies ist wiederum der Zuverlässigkeit des Sortierverfahrens zuträglich.If the neutron irradiation is passed through a moderator lens before it hits the fraction, the accuracy and reliability of the method can be further increased. The neutrons can be thermalized by the moderator - ie reduced in their kinetic energy to below 100 meV - whereby the cross section of the neutrons with the atomic nuclei of the material to be examined fraction is significantly increased. The accuracy of the method can therefore be improved, since the increased cross-section results in a larger yield of neutron activation products. Due to the function of the moderator as a neutron lens, during the thermalization of the neutrons, the neutron field emanating from the neutron source can be uniformed and also the direction of the radiation is adjusted, whereby a uniform neutron field over the entire examination area can be achieved. This in turn is conducive to the reliability of the sorting process.

Der Massendurchsatz im Verfahren kann weiter erhöht werden, wenn mehrere Fraktionen gleichzeitig mit einer Neutronenquelle bestrahlt werden. Derart ist es etwa möglich, nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander angeordnete Fraktionen simultan einer Messung zu unterziehen - die Reproduzierbarkeit des Verfahrens kann aufgrund der Vergleichbarkeit der Messung mehrerer gleichzeitig bestrahlter Fraktionen weiter erhöhen werden.The mass flow rate in the process can be further increased if several fractions are irradiated simultaneously with a neutron source. It is thus possible, for example, to simultaneously subject fractions arranged side by side and / or one after another to one another - the reproducibility of the method can be further increased on account of the comparability of the measurement of several fractions simultaneously irradiated.

Sind zudem mehrere Detektoren zur Messung der von den Fraktionen abgegebenen Gammastrahlung nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander vorgesehen, kann der der Massendurchsatz des Verfahrens weiter erhöht werden.If, in addition, a plurality of detectors for measuring the gamma radiation emitted by the fractions are provided next to one another and / or behind one another, the mass throughput of the method can be further increased.

Sind dabei Detektoren nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander vorgesehenen und jeweils einer Fraktion zur Messung der von dieser Fraktion abgegebenen Gammastrahlung zugeordneten, so kann ermöglicht werden, mehrere Aluminiumschrott-Fraktionen simultan einer Messung zu unterziehen, wobei eine gegenseitige Beeinflussung der emittierten Gammastrahlung einzelner Fraktion reduziert wird. Der Massendurchsatz des Verfahrens kann damit bei dennoch hoher Verfahrensgenauigkeit deutlich erhöht werden. Sind diese Detektoren dabei seitlich voneinander abgeschirmt, so kann standfest sichergestellt werden, dass - insbesondere bei simultaner Messung mehrerer Fraktionen - die emittierte Gammastrahlung nur in den der jeweiligen Fraktion zugeordneten Detektor trifft. Eine Verfälschung der Messung aufgrund einer Überlagerung der zu detektierenden Gammastrahlung mehrerer Fraktionen ist demnach vermeidbar. So kann demnach vermieden werden, dass durch unerwünschte Streuung der Gammastrahlung an den Detektoren eine erhöhte Hintergrund- bzw. Störstrahlung in die Detektoren trifft. Zudem kann durch gezielte geometrische Anordnung der Bleiabschirmung vermieden werden, dass nicht von der Probe emittierte Gammastrahlung (etwa durch Neutronen-Aktivierung anderer Materialien in der Anlage) in die Detektoren trifft. Eine Bleiabschirmung stellt diesbezüglich eine einfache Ausführungsvariante dar. Ein zuverlässigeres, reproduzierbares Verfahren kann somit geschaffen werden.If detectors are provided side by side and / or in succession and each assigned to a fraction for measuring the gamma radiation emitted by this fraction, it is possible to simultaneously subject a plurality of aluminum scrap fractions to a measurement, whereby a mutual influence of the emitted gamma radiation of individual fraction is reduced. The mass flow rate of the process can thus be significantly increased while still high process accuracy. If these detectors are shielded from one another laterally, then it can be steadily ensured that - especially with simultaneous measurement of several fractions - the emitted gamma radiation only strikes the detector assigned to the respective fraction. A falsification of the measurement due to a superposition of the gamma radiation of several fractions to be detected is therefore avoidable. Thus, it can be avoided that undesired scattering of the gamma radiation at the detectors causes increased background or interfering radiation in the detectors. In addition, it can be avoided by targeted geometric arrangement of the lead shield that not emitted by the sample gamma radiation (for example by neutron activation of other materials in the system) in the detectors. A lead shield represents a simple embodiment in this regard. A more reliable, reproducible method can thus be created.

Hinsichtlich der Vorrichtung wird die gestellte Aufgabe durch die Merkmale des Anspruchs gelöst.With regard to the device, the object is achieved by the features of the claim.

Eine konstruktiv einfach realisierte und hochpräzise Vorrichtung in der Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinertem, Aluminiumschrott nach Legierungsgruppen mit hohem Massendurchsatz ist erreichbar mit einer Förderanlage zur Förderung von Fraktionen des Aluminiumschrotts, mit einer Messeinrichtung, welche Messeinrichtung mindestens eine Neutronenquelle zur Bestrahlung der von der Förderanlage geförderten Fraktionen, wenigstens einen Detektor zur Aufnahme der von den Fraktionen durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebenen Gammastrahlung und eine Recheneinheit zur Zuteilung der Fraktionen zu einer Legierungsgruppe in Abhängigkeit ihres jeweiligen relativen Verhältnisses der Gewichtsanteile mindestens zweier ihrer Legierungselemente aufweist, welches relative Verhältnis von der Recheneinheit aus dem Energiespektrum der von der jeweiligen Fraktion detektierten Gammastrahlung bestimmt wird, und mit einer Sortieranlage, welche die von der Förderanlage geförderten Fraktionen nach der, ihnen von der Messeinrichtung zugteilten Legierungsgruppe sortiert.A structurally simple and highly accurate device in the sorting of, in particular crushed, aluminum scrap for alloy groups with high mass flow rate is achievable with a conveyor system for conveying fractions of aluminum scrap, with a measuring device, which measuring device at least one neutron source for irradiating the fractions conveyed by the conveyor, at least one detector for receiving the gamma radiation emitted by the fractions by said neutron irradiation, and an arithmetic unit for allocating the fractions to an alloy group depending on their respective relative proportions of the weights of at least two of their alloying elements; which relative ratio of the arithmetic unit is determined from the energy spectrum of the gamma radiation detected by the respective fraction, and with a sorting system which sorts the fractions conveyed by the conveyor system according to the alloy group assigned to them by the measuring device.

Ein vergleichsweise hoher Massendurchsatz und eine hohe Trennschärfe sind durch die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung erreichbar, wenn die Neutronenquelle zwischen Last- und Leertrum des Fördergurts der Förderanlage vorgesehen ist. Es wird dadurch nämlich eine Vorrichtung zur Verfügung gestellt, die es erlaubt, Fraktionen besonders variabel anzuordnen bzw. der Messeinrichtung zuzuführen, ohne Beeinträchtigungen in Hinblick auf die Reproduzierbarkeit in Kauf nehmen zu müssen. Des Weiteren kann damit die Neutronenquelle bzw. können Linsen etc. vergleichsweise nahe am Fördergurt vorgesehen werden, ohne eine Berührung mit der Förderanlage oder des von dieser geförderten Aluminiumschrotts befürchten zu müssen. Mit einer sicheren Bestrahlung der Fraktionen kann gerechnet werden, was die Zuverlässigkeit der Vorrichtung in der Sortierung des Aluminiumschrotts nach Legierungsgruppen förderlich sein kann.A comparatively high mass throughput and a high selectivity can be achieved by the device according to the invention if the neutron source is provided between the load and the slack side of the conveyor belt of the conveyor system. It is thus provided by a device that allows fractions to be arranged particularly variable or to supply the measuring device, without having to accept any impairment in terms of reproducibility. Furthermore, so that the neutron source or lenses etc. can be provided comparatively close to the conveyor belt, without having to fear contact with the conveyor or subsidized by this aluminum scrap. With a safe irradiation of the fractions can be expected, which may be beneficial to the reliability of the device in the sorting of aluminum scrap for alloy groups.

Die Förderanlage der Förderanlage kann zur Aufteilung des Aluminiumschrotts genutzt werden, wenn dieser voneinander abgegrenzte Kammern aufweist. Entsprechend der konstruktiven Ausführung der Kammern kann zudem auch das Volumen der Fraktion auf konstruktiv einfache Weise begrenzt werden, was der Trennschärfe des Verfahrens und der Sortierqualität der Vorrichtung zugute kommen kann. Konstruktiv einfach gelöst, kann der Fördergurt mehrere in Reihen nebeneinander und Spalten hintereinander angeordnete Kammern aufweisen, um damit den Massendurchsatz der Vorrichtung zu erhöhen.The conveyor system of the conveyor system can be used to divide the aluminum scrap, if this has separate chambers. According to the structural design of the chambers also the volume of the fraction can also be limited in a structurally simple manner, which can benefit the selectivity of the method and the sorting quality of the device. Constructively simply solved, the conveyor belt can have several in rows next to each other and columns arranged one behind the other chambers, so as to increase the mass flow rate of the device.

Die durch die Vorrichtung zur Verfügung gestellt Trennschärfe und damit deren Sortierqualität können weiter verbessert werden, wenn zwischen Neutronenquelle und Fraktion eine als Moderator ausgebildete Linse vorgesehen ist.The selectivity provided by the device and thus its sorting quality can be further improved if a lens designed as a moderator is provided between the neutron source and the fraction.

In den Figuren ist beispielsweise der Erfindungsgegenstand anhand einer Ausführungsvariante näher dargestellt. Es zeigen

Fig. 1
eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine Vorrichtung zur Durchführung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens und
Fig. 2
eine Schnittansicht durch die in Fig. 1 dargestellte Vorrichtung.
In the figures, for example, the subject invention is illustrated in more detail with reference to a variant embodiment. Show it
Fig. 1
a schematic plan view of an apparatus for performing the method according to the invention and
Fig. 2
a sectional view through the in Fig. 1 illustrated device.

Nach Fig. 1 und Fig. 2 wird ein Verfahren 1 zur Sortierung von zerkleinertem bzw. geschreddertem Aluminiumschrott 2 gezeigt, bei welchem der Aluminiumschrott 2 mit einer Einrichtung 3 beispielsweise auf 10 bis 120 mm zerkleinert und/oder gesiebt und/oder homogenisiert wird bzw. in weiterer Folge in Fraktionen 4 aufgeteilt und/oder vereinzelt wird. Diese Fraktionen 4 werden schließlich von einer Sortieranlage 5 nach Legierungsgruppen 6.1 (z.B.: Aluminiumknetlegierung der Legierungsgruppe 6xxx), 6.2 (Aluminiumknetlegierung der Legierungsgruppe 7xxx), 6.3 (Aluminiumgusslegierung der Legierungsgruppe 3xx-AlSiCu) sortiert.To Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 a method 1 for sorting crushed or shredded aluminum scrap 2 is shown, in which the aluminum scrap 2 with a device 3, for example, crushed to 10 to 120 mm and / or sieved and / or homogenized or subsequently divided into fractions 4 and / or is isolated. These fractions 4 are finally sorted by a sorting system 5 according to alloy groups 6.1 (eg: aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 6xxx), 6.2 (aluminum wrought alloy of the alloy group 7xxx), 6.3 (aluminum casting alloy of the alloy group 3xx-AlSiCu).

Wie in Fig. 1 und 2 gezeigt, wird der Aluminiumschrott 2 in voneinander abgegrenzte Kammern 14 eingefüllt und damit in einzelne Fraktionen 4 aufgeteilt. Im Allgemeinen wird erwähnt, dass eine Fraktion 4 aus einem einzelnen oder mehreren Aluminiumschrottteilen bzw. auch Aluminiumschrottgranulaten oder -pulvern des Aluminiumschrotts 2 bestehen kann.As in Fig. 1 and 2 shown, the aluminum scrap 2 is filled into separate chambers 14 and thus divided into individual fractions 4. In general, it is mentioned that a fraction 4 can consist of a single or a plurality of aluminum scrap parts or else aluminum scrap granules or powders of the aluminum scrap 2.

Die Förderanlage 15 kann in der einfachsten konstruktiven Ausführung lediglich ein Förderband 115 darstellen, das die Fraktionen 4 von der Vereinzelungseinrichtung 3 durch die PGNAA-Messanlage 7 zur Sortieranlage 5 transportiert. Wie im Ausführungsbeispiel ersichtlich, werden die abgegrenzten Kammern 14 werden durch Mitnehmer 15.1 und Längsstege 15.2 eines endlosen Fördergurts 15.3 einer Förderanlage 15 gebildet.The conveyor system 15 may represent only a conveyor belt 115 in the simplest structural design, the fractions 4 of the singulator. 3 transported by the PGNAA measuring system 7 to the sorting system 5. As can be seen in the exemplary embodiment, the demarcated chambers 14 are formed by drivers 15.1 and longitudinal webs 15.2 of an endless conveyor belt 15.3 of a conveyor system 15.

Die Fraktionen 4 des Aluminiumschrotts 2 werden einer PGNAA-Messeinrichtung 7 zugeführt, welche mit der Sortieranlage 5 datenverbunden ist. In der PGNAA-Messeinrichtung 7 werden die Fraktionen 4 mit Neutronenstrahlung 8 einer Neutronenquelle 9 bestrahlt und die von den einzelnen Fraktionen 4 aufgrund der derart erfolgten Aktivierung ihrer Atomkerne emittierte Gammastrahlung 10 jeweils von einem Detektor 11 aufgenommen. Es liegen demnach Daten zu den Gammastrahlungen 10 der einzelnen Fraktionen 4 vor. Die Messdaten des Detektors 11 werden einer Recheneinheit 12 der Messeinrichtung 7 zugeführt. Somit können zu den Fraktionen 4 jeweils diesen zugehörige Energiespektren gebildet werden. Anhand des Energiespektrums der jeweiligen Fraktion wird ein relatives Verhältnis der Gewichtsanteile von mindestens zwei Legierungselementen dieser Fraktion 4 bestimmt. In weiterer Folge werden die Fraktionen 4 auf Grundlage der relativen Verhältnisse der Gewichtsanteile von Legierungselementen von der Recheneinheit 12 somit individuell einer Legierungsgruppe 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 zugeordnet.The fractions 4 of the aluminum scrap 2 are fed to a PGNAA measuring device 7, which is data-connected to the sorting system 5. In the PGNAA measuring device 7, the fractions 4 are irradiated with neutron radiation 8 of a neutron source 9 and the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the individual fractions 4 due to the thus activated activation of their atomic nuclei is in each case recorded by a detector 11. Accordingly, there are data on the gamma rays 10 of the individual fractions 4. The measurement data of the detector 11 are fed to a computing unit 12 of the measuring device 7. Thus, each of these fractions 4 associated energy spectra can be formed. Based on the energy spectrum of the respective fraction, a relative ratio of the weight fractions of at least two alloying elements of this fraction 4 is determined. Subsequently, the fractions 4 are thus assigned individually to an alloy group 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 on the basis of the relative proportions of the weight proportions of alloying elements of the arithmetic unit 12.

Entsprechend dieser Zuordnung steuert die PGNAA-Messeinrichtung 7 die Sortieranlage 5 derart an bzw. steht mit der Sortieranlage 5 derart in Datenverbindung, dass eine Fraktion 4 nach der ihr entsprechenden Legierungsgruppe 6.1 oder 6.2 oder 6.3 in ein jeweiliges Behältnis 13 aussortiert werden.According to this assignment, the PGNAA measuring device 7 controls the sorting system 5 in such a way or is in data connection with the sorting system 5 that a fraction 4 are sorted out according to their corresponding alloy group 6.1 or 6.2 or 6.3 in a respective container 13.

Eine derartige Förderanlage 15 kann einen besonders hohen Massendurchsatz im Verfahren ermöglichen aber auch zur Vereinzelung des Aluminiumschrotts 2 in Fraktionen 4 dienen.Such a conveyor system 15 may allow a particularly high mass flow rate in the process but also serve to separate the aluminum scrap 2 into fractions 4.

Wie der Fig. 2 weiter zu entnehmen, ist zwischen Lasttrum 15.4 und Leertrum 15.5 des Fördergurts 15.3 die Neutronenquelle 9 vorgesehen, die sohin die Fraktionen 4 des Aluminiumschrotts 2 durch den Lasttrum 15.4 des Fördergurt 15.3 hindurch bestrahlt. Die von den Fraktionen 4 abgegebene Gammastrahlung 10 wird von oberhalb des Lasttrums des Fördergurts 15.3 vorgesehenen Detektor 11 aufgenommen. Diese Art der Anordnung der Neutronenquelle 9 und des Detektors 11 schafft eine kompakte Vorrichtung und ermöglicht zudem einen geringen Störeinfluss der Förderanlage 15 auf die Messung, zumal damit das Leertrum 15.5 des Fördergurts 15.3 keinen Einfluss auf die Bestrahlung der Fraktionen 4 hat. Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren weist daher nicht nur einen hohen Massendurchsatz sondern auch eine hohe Trennschärfe auf.Again Fig. 2 can be further seen, the neutron source 9 is provided between the load strand 15.4 and 15.1 empty strand of the conveyor belt 15.3, which thus irradiates the fractions 4 of the aluminum scrap 2 through the load strand 15.4 of the conveyor belt 15.3 therethrough. The gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fractions 4 is picked up by detector 11 provided above the load strand of the conveyor belt 15.3. This type of arrangement of the neutron source 9 and the detector 11 creates a compact device and also allows a small interference of the conveyor 15 to the measurement, especially since the return strand 15.5 of the conveyor belt 15.3 has no influence on the irradiation of the fractions 4. The method according to the invention therefore not only has a high mass throughput but also a high selectivity.

Wie insbesondere der Fig. 2 entnommen werden kann, wird die Neutronenstrahlung 8 aus der Neutronenquelle 9 über eine Linse 16 geführt, bevor die Neutronenstrahlung 8 auf die Fraktionen 4 trifft. Dadurch wird die divergente, aus der Neutronenquelle 9 austretende Neutronenstrahlung 8 vergleichmäßigt und homogenisiert, so dass sichergestellt werden kann, dass die auf die Fraktionen 4 eintreffende Neutronenstrahlung 8 in jeder Kammer 14 vergleichbar ist. Dies ermöglicht wiederum, mehrere Fraktionen 4 gleichzeitig mit der Neutronenstrahlung 8 der Neutronenquelle 9 zu beaufschlagen. Zudem ist die Linse 16 als Moderator 17 ausgebildet, wodurch die Neutronen der Neutronenstrahlung 8 thermalisiert, also auf kinetische Energien unter etwa 100meV verlangsamt werden. Der Wirkungsquerschnitt der Neutronenstrahlung 8 mit den Atomkernen der Fraktionen 4 kann damit stark erhöht werden, wovon die Messgenauigkeit des Verfahrens profitiert.How the particular Fig. 2 can be removed, the neutron radiation 8 is guided from the neutron source 9 via a lens 16, before the neutron radiation 8 strikes the fractions 4. As a result, the divergent neutron radiation 8 emerging from the neutron source 9 is made uniform and homogenized, so that it can be ensured that the neutron radiation 8 incident on the fractions 4 is comparable in each chamber 14. This in turn makes it possible to apply several fractions 4 simultaneously with the neutron radiation 8 of the neutron source 9. In addition, the lens 16 is formed as a moderator 17, whereby the neutrons of the neutron radiation 8 thermalized, so are slowed down to kinetic energies below about 100meV. The cross section of the neutron radiation 8 with the atomic nuclei of the fractions 4 can thus be greatly increased, from which the measurement accuracy of the method benefits.

Um insbesondere einen hohen Massendurchsatz zu ermöglichen, sind in der PGNAA-Messanlage mehrere Detektoren 11 nebeneinander vorgesehen, um die von den Fraktionen 4 abgegebene Gammastrahlung 10 zu messen. Wie der Fig. 1 entnommen werden kann, sind hierbei insbesondere 16 Detektoren 11, auf vier Reihen 19 und vier Spalten 20 verteilt, und zwar einsprechend den derart angeordneten Kammern 14 des Fördergurts 15.3. Eine hohe Parallelität für einen hohen Massendurchsatz kann damit erreicht werden.In order in particular to enable a high mass throughput, several detectors 11 are provided next to one another in the PGNAA measuring system in order to measure the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fractions 4. Again Fig. 1 In this case, 16 detectors 11, in particular, are distributed over four rows 19 and four columns 20, and in a corresponding manner arranged in such a way Chambers 14 of the conveyor belt 15.3. A high parallelism for a high mass flow rate can be achieved with it.

Wie aus den Fig. 1 und 2 ersichtlich, sind an den Detektoren 11 jeweils Abschirmungen 18 vorgesehen. Dadurch, dass diese seitlich voneinander abgeschirmt sind, kann vorteilhafterweise sichergestellt werden, dass nur die von der dem Detektor 11 zugeordneten Fraktion 4 emittierte Gammastrahlung 10 in den jeweiligen Detektor 11 trifft. Die emittierte Gammastrahlung 10 einer fremden Fraktion 4 könnte sich andernfalls ansonsten mit der zu messenden Gammastrahlung 10 überlagern und somit das Energiespektrum verfälschen. Zur Ausbildung einer zuverlässigen Abschirmung hat sich eine Bleiabschirmung 18 bewährt.Like from the Fig. 1 and 2 can be seen, shields 18 are provided on the detectors 11 each. By virtue of the fact that they are shielded from one another laterally, it can advantageously be ensured that only the gamma radiation 10 emitted by the fraction 11 associated with the detector 11 strikes the respective detector 11. Otherwise, the emitted gamma radiation 10 of a foreign fraction 4 could otherwise be superposed with the gamma radiation 10 to be measured and thus falsify the energy spectrum. To form a reliable shield, a lead shield 18 has been proven.

Claims (14)

Verfahren zur Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinertem, Aluminiumschrott (2) nach Legierungsgruppen (6.1, 6.2, 6.3), bei welchem Verfahren der Aluminiumschrott (2) in Fraktionen (4) aufgeteilt wird,
Fraktionen (4) des Aluminiumschrotts (2) durch mindestens eine Neutronenquelle (9) bestrahlt werden,
die von der einzelnen Fraktion (4) durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebene Gammastrahlung (10) jeweils von mindestens einem Detektor (11) aufgenommen und
daraus ein, der jeweiligen Fraktion (4) zugehöriges Energiespektrum gebildet wird, anhand welchem Energiespektrum ein relatives Verhältnis der Gewichtsanteile von mindestens zwei Legierungselementen dieser Fraktion (4) bestimmt und diese Fraktion (4) anhand diesem relativen Verhältnis der ihr entsprechenden Legierungsgruppe (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) zugeteilt wird und danach die Fraktionen (4) nach den ihnen zugteilten Legierungsgruppen (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) sortiert werden.Method for sorting, in particular comminuted, aluminum scrap (2) according to alloy groups (6.1, 6.2, 6.3), in which method the aluminum scrap (2) is divided into fractions (4),
Fractions (4) of the aluminum scrap (2) are irradiated by at least one neutron source (9),
the gamma radiation (10) emitted by the individual fraction (4) by this neutron irradiation is in each case taken up by at least one detector (11) and
from which a respective energy spectrum of the respective fraction (4) is formed, based on which energy spectrum a relative ratio of the weight fractions of at least two alloying elements of this fraction (4) determined and this fraction (4) based on this relative ratio of their corresponding alloy group (6.1, 6.2 , 6.3) and then the fractions (4) are sorted according to the alloy groups (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) assigned to them. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Aluminiumschrott (2) in voneinander abgegrenzten Kammern (14) vorgesehen und damit in Fraktionen (4) aufgeteilt wird.A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the aluminum scrap (2) provided in separate chambers (14) and thus divided into fractions (4). Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fraktionen (4) der Neutronenquelle (9) von einer Förderanlage (15) zur Bestrahlung zugeführt werden.A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fractions (4) of the neutron source (9) from a conveyor system (15) are supplied to the irradiation. Verfahren nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Förderanlage (15) einen endlosen Fördergurt (15.3) aufweist, und dass die zwischen Last- und Leertrum (15.4, 15.5) des Fördergurts (15.3) vorgesehene Neutronenquelle (9) die Fraktionen (4) des Aluminiumschrotts (2) durch den Fördergurt (15.3) hindurch bestrahlt und die von den Fraktionen (4) durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebene Gammastrahlung (10) von dem oberhalb des Lasttrums (15.4) des Fördergurts (15.3) vorgesehenen Detektor (11) aufgenommen wird.A method according to claim 3, characterized in that the conveyor system (15) has an endless conveyor belt (15.3), and that between the load and idler strand (15.4, 15.5) of the conveyor belt (15.3) provided neutron source (9) the Irradiated fractions (4) of the aluminum scrap (2) through the conveyor belt (15.3) through and emitted by the fractions (4) by this neutron irradiation gamma radiation (10) of the above the Lasttrums (15.4) of the conveyor belt (15.3) provided detector (11 ) is recorded. Verfahren nach Anspruch 3 oder 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Aluminiumschrott (2) in voneinander abgegrenzten Kammern (14) des Fördergurts (15.3) der Förderanlage (15), insbesondere des Förderbands (115), vorgesehen wird.A method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the aluminum scrap (2) in mutually delimited chambers (14) of the conveyor belt (15.3) of the conveyor system (15), in particular of the conveyor belt (115) is provided. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Neutronenbestrahlung über eine als Moderator (17) ausgebildete Linse (16) geführt wird, bevor diese auf die Fraktion (4) trifft.Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the neutron irradiation over a moderator (17) formed lens (16) is guided before it hits the fraction (4). Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mehrere Fraktionen (4) gleichzeitig mit der Neutronenquelle (9) bestrahlt werden.Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a plurality of fractions (4) are irradiated simultaneously with the neutron source (9). Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mehrere Detektoren (11) zur Messung der von den Fraktionen (4) abgegebenen Gammastrahlung (10) nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander vorgesehen sind.Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a plurality of detectors (11) for measuring the fractions (4) emitted gamma radiation (10) are provided side by side and / or one behind the other. Verfahren nach Anspruch 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander vorgesehenen und jeweils einer Fraktion (4) zur Messung der von dieser abgegebenen Gammastrahlung (10) zugeordneten Detektoren (11), insbesondere durch eine Bleiabschirmung (18), seitlich voneinander abgeschirmt sind.A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the side by side and / or one behind the other and each one fraction (4) for measuring emitted by this gamma radiation (10) associated detectors (11), in particular by a lead shield (18), laterally shielded from each other are. Vorrichtung zur Sortierung von, insbesondere zerkleinertem, Aluminiumschrott (2) nach Legierungsgruppen (6.1, 6.2, 6.3)
mit einer Förderanlage (15) zur Förderung von Fraktionen (4) des Aluminiumschrotts (2),
mit einer Messeinrichtung (7), welche Messeinrichtung (7) mindestens eine Neutronenquelle (9) zur Bestrahlung der von der Förderanlage (15) geförderten Fraktionen (4), wenigstens einen Detektor (11) zur Aufnahme der von den Fraktionen (4) durch diese Neutronenbestrahlung abgegebenen Gammastrahlung (10) und eine Recheneinheit (12) zur Zuteilung der Fraktionen (4) zu einer Legierungsgruppe (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) in Abhängigkeit ihres jeweiligen relativen Verhältnisses der Gewichtsanteile mindestens zweier ihrer Legierungselemente aufweist, welches relative Verhältnis von der Recheneinheit (12) aus dem Energiespektrum der von der jeweiligen Fraktion (4) detektierten Gammastrahlung (10) bestimmt wird,
und mit einer Sortieranlage (5), welche die von der Förderanlage (15) geförderten Fraktionen (4) nach der, ihnen von der Messeinrichtung (7) zugteilten Legierungsgruppe (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) sortiert.Device for sorting, in particular comminuted, aluminum scrap (2) according to alloy groups (6.1, 6.2, 6.3)
with a conveying system (15) for conveying fractions (4) of the aluminum scrap (2),
with a measuring device (7), which measuring device (7) has at least one neutron source (9) for irradiating the fractions (4) conveyed by the conveyor (15), at least one detector (11) for receiving them from the fractions (4) Neutron irradiation emitted gamma radiation (10) and a computing unit (12) for allocating the fractions (4) to an alloy group (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) depending on their relative ratio of the weight proportions of at least two of its alloying elements, which relative ratio of the arithmetic unit ( 12) is determined from the energy spectrum of the gamma radiation (10) detected by the respective fraction (4),
and with a sorting system (5) which sorts the fractions (4) conveyed by the conveyor (15) according to the alloy group (6.1, 6.2, 6.3) assigned to them by the measuring device (7). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Neutronenquelle (9) zwischen Last- und Leertrum (15.4, 15.5) des Fördergurts (15.3) der Förderanlage (15) vorgesehen ist.Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the neutron source (9) is provided between the load and idle strand (15.4, 15.5) of the conveyor belt (15.3) of the conveyor system (15). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 10 oder 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Fördergurt (15.3) der Förderanlage (15) voneinander abgegrenzte Kammern (14) zur Aufteilung und Förderung von Fraktionen (4) aufweist.Apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the conveyor belt (15.3) of the conveyor system (15) delimited from each other chambers (14) for dividing and conveying fractions (4). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Fördergurt (15.3) mehrere in Reihen (19) nebeneinander und Spalten (20) hintereinander angeordnete Kammern (14) aufweist.Apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the conveyor belt (15.3) has a plurality of rows (19) side by side and columns (20) arranged one behind the other chambers (14). Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 11 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zwischen Neutronenquelle (9) und Fraktion (4) eine als Moderator (17) ausgebildete Linse (16) vorgesehen ist.Device according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that between neutron source (9) and fraction (4) as a moderator (17) formed lens (16) is provided.
EP16197186.6A 2016-11-03 2016-11-03 Device and method for sorting aluminium scrap Active EP3318339B1 (en)

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EP16197186.6A EP3318339B1 (en) 2016-11-03 2016-11-03 Device and method for sorting aluminium scrap
US16/347,542 US11358179B2 (en) 2016-11-03 2017-11-03 Apparatus and method for sorting
JP2019515233A JP7055130B2 (en) 2016-11-03 2017-11-03 Equipment and methods for sorting
PCT/EP2017/078245 WO2018083273A1 (en) 2016-11-03 2017-11-03 Device and method for sorting

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JP7055130B2 (en) 2022-04-15
EP3318339B1 (en) 2020-01-29
WO2018083273A1 (en) 2018-05-11
JP2019535491A (en) 2019-12-12
US11358179B2 (en) 2022-06-14
US20210001376A1 (en) 2021-01-07

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