Second Generation of Automatic Sorting Equipment for Waste Portable Batteries 

Optisort, an industry pioneer in efficient waste sorting systems, recently announced the launch of the OBS 2.0, the company’s second generation battery sorter. Optisort’s latest product offering, the OBS 600, includes a new feeding system which allows a throughput of 8 batteries per second, improved line up with more accurate classification and new ID-units with enhanced accessibility for maintenance. The system also comes with a feature for recirculation of unidentified batteries which decreases the rate of unidentified batteries to less than three per cent. With the new features the total throughput per hour increases to over 600 kg.

The patent-pending technology used in the OBS 600 uses a combination of computer vision and advanced classification technology that enables sorting of all kinds of required chemistries in cylindrical and 9V batteries. The system automatically sorts batteries based on their chemical composition and collects detailed information about the brands, models and types of batteries that are being processed. 

Hans Eric Melin, CEO of Optisort, said: “Since we launched our first machine in 2012, we have worked alongside our customers to identify hardware and software improvements in the automatic sorting of batteries process. Following many hours of research and development, we now have developed a system which has broader commercial appeal. It’s faster, more accurate and more reliable than ever.”

With the launch of its second generation technology, Optisort is also introducing a rental offer which meets the needs of sorters and recyclers who sign short tender deals with compliance schemes, enabling them to move from smaller volumes with less capital expenditure.

New web-based administration tool creates new business opportunity

In conjunction with the unveiling of the OBS 600, Optisort is also launching a new easy-to-use, web-based administration and reporting tool that will enable visualised access to production runtime and sorting.

Melin concluded: “With the new web-based tool we provide production and commercial departments with access to, and control over, the daily throughput, runtime and sorting results. This creates an entirely new business opportunity where statistics can help compliance schemes to recognise free riders, identify market share or gain insight into the life cycle of specific batteries for manufacturers and importers.”