Eddy Current Separator | Precision Metal Separation for Efficient Recycling
Yung Hsing Machinery, a leading specialist in recycling and resource recovery solutions, introduces the NS Series Eddy Current Separator—engineered to effectively extract non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, brass, and zinc from mixed waste materials. By utilizing high-speed magnetic induction and advanced rotor design, the system ensures precise separation with minimal material loss.
Ideal for use in recycling plants, MRFs, and industrial waste processing, this eddy current separator boosts operational efficiency while supporting circular economy initiatives and sustainable environmental practices.
What is Eddy Current? (Eddy Current Explained)
Eddy current is a physical phenomenon that occurs when a conductor passes through a changing magnetic field. The magnetic field induces circulating electrical currents inside the conductor, which generate an opposing magnetic field. This force pushes the metal away from the magnet source.
In recycling, this principle is transformed into a powerful separation method. An eddy current separator applies this science to eject non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, and brass from mixed waste streams. Understanding this mechanism (eddy current explained) helps recyclers recognize why the machine is essential in increasing metal recovery and reducing landfill waste.
How Does an Eddy Current Separator Work?
The eddy current separator consists of a high-speed magnetic rotor mounted inside a non-metallic drum. Waste material is fed onto a conveyor belt, passing over the magnetic rotor. When conductive metals encounter the changing magnetic field, eddy currents are induced inside them. These currents create repelling forces that propel the metals forward into a separate discharge zone.
Non-conductive materials—such as plastic, wood, and glass—fall naturally into a different collection area. This simple but highly effective process ensures accurate separation, stable throughput, and high-purity non-ferrous recycling.
Working Process:
- Feeding the material – Mixed waste enters the conveyor belt.
- Entering the magnetic zone – Rotor inside a non-metallic drum spins at high speed.
- Eddy current generation – Magnetic fields induce eddy currents in conductive particles.
- Repulsion effect – Non-ferrous metals are ejected forward or sideways.
- Separation – Non-metallics drop straight; metals are split by trajectory.
- Adjustment – Operators fine-tune rotor speed and splitter position.
Applications of Eddy Current Recycling
Eddy current separators are widely used in industries that demand maximum recovery of valuable metals and purification of other material streams:
- Aluminum Can Recycling – Clean fractions ready for remelting, reducing virgin aluminum demand.
- E-Waste Recycling – Extracts copper and aluminum from PCBs, cables, and electronics.
- Plastic Recycling – Removes aluminum caps/labels from PET flakes, ensuring high-purity PET.
- Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) – Separates non-ferrous metals, reducing landfill and increasing revenue.
- Automotive Recycling – Recovers aluminum and copper from shredded vehicles.
- Metal Shredding Lines – Extracts valuable non-ferrous metals from mixed metal scrap.
By applying eddy current recycling, businesses achieve higher recovery rates, comply with environmental standards, and create additional profit from waste streams.
Key Features and Benefits of the Eddy Current Separator
Engineering & Technology
- Precision Engineering – High-speed rotor with minimal vibration, up to 3000 RPM.
- Powerful Eddy Currents – Generates up to 3000 Gauss magnetic field for accurate separation.
- Durable & Efficient – Heat-treated components for long-lasting reliability.
- Automated Control – Reduces operator error and ensures optimal performance.
- Eco-Friendly Design – Enclosed system reduces dust, supporting sustainability.
Yung Hsing Advantages
- Over 30 years of experience in recycling equipment manufacturing.
- Customized engineering to match specific material streams.
- Trusted by recyclers across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
- CE-certified machinery built to global standards.
Benefits of Eddy Current Recycling
- Increased recovery rates – Extracts more aluminum, copper, and other metals.
- Cost efficiency – Reduces manual sorting, lowers operating costs.
- Improved product purity – Plastics, glass, and other recyclables achieve higher quality.
- Sustainability – Supports circular economy by reducing landfill dependency.
Technical Specifications: Eddy Current Separator Series
| Model | Belt Conveyor (HP) | Inner Size | Magnet Drum (HP) | Capacity (Kg) | Vibrate Screener (HP) | No. of Sets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NS600 | 2 (1.5kW) | 600 mm | 7.5 (5.6kW) | 400–800 | 1/2 | 2 |
| NS800 | 3 (2.3kW) | 800 mm | 10 (7.5kW) | 500–1000 | 1/2 | 2 |
| NS1000 | 3 (2.3kW) | 1000 mm | 10 (7.5kW) | 600–1200 | 3/4 | 2 |
| NS1200 | 3 (2.3kW) | 1200 mm | 10 (7.5kW) | 700–1400 | 3/4 | 2 |
| NS1500 | 3 (2.3kW) | 1500 mm | 15 (11.3kW) | 800–1600 | 1 | 2 |
| NS1800 | 3 (2.3kW) | 1800 mm | 15 (11.3kW) | 1000–2000 | 1 | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What materials can be separated with an Eddy Current Separator?
Aluminum, copper, brass, zinc, and other non-ferrous metals in cans, e-waste, plastics, and MSW.
What’s the difference between an Eddy Current Separator and a Magnetic Drum?
Magnetic drums remove ferrous metals (iron, steel), while eddy current separators specifically target non-ferrous metals. Both are complementary in a recycling line.
Where is an Eddy Current Separator positioned in a recycling line?
Normally installed after shredding and ferrous separation to maximize non-ferrous recovery.
Is it suitable for small-scale operations?
Yes, Yung Hsing provides models in multiple capacities, ideal for both small and large plants.
How to Order
- Step 1: Contact our technical sales team for consultation and recommendation.
- Step 2: Receive detailed quotations, machine specifications, and production lead times.
- Step 3: Confirm order, sign contract, and initiate production.
- Step 4: Machine testing, export packaging, and worldwide shipment.
Get in Touch
Connect with the recycling machinery experts at Yung Hsing Machinery in Taiwan. Discover our advanced metal sorting solutions, including the high-performance Eddy Current Separator. Whether for car seat recycling, household appliance recovery, or e-waste treatment, we provide tailored solutions to meet your material recovery and recycling needs.
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