NIR Sorter

Chute Type NIR Sorting Machine

Belt Type NIR Sorting Machine

Chute Type AI NIR Sorting Machine

Belt Type AI NIR Sorting Machine

What is NIR Sorter

An NIR Sorter is an advanced type of Color Sorter that utilizes Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technology to analyze materials based on their molecular composition rather than just visible color differences. Unlike traditional color sorters, NIR sorters can identify materials that may look identical to the human eye but have different chemical properties. This technology is particularly useful in industries where material purity is critical, such as food processing, plastic recycling, and mineral sorting.

The NIR Sorter comes in several configurations, including chute-type and belt-type models, each designed for specific material handling requirements. Some advanced versions even incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve sorting accuracy and adapt to complex material streams automatically. These machines represent a significant leap forward in automated sorting technology, offering capabilities far beyond what conventional color sorters can achieve.

NIR Sorter

How NIR Sorter Works

NIR Spectroscopy

Uses near-infrared light to reveal unique molecular fingerprints of materials, detecting invisible differences beyond human vision or RGB cameras.

AI Optimization

Machine learning algorithms continuously analyze results and automatically improve sorting parameters without operator intervention.

Dual Configuration

Available in chute-type for free-falling grains or belt-type for irregular items, both achieving industrial-scale throughput.

Precision Ejection

High-speed pneumatic jets remove defective materials with sub-millisecond timing, maintaining product purity at production line speeds.

The NIR Sorter operates by emitting near-infrared light onto materials as they pass through the detection zone. Each material absorbs and reflects this light in unique patterns based on its molecular structure. Sophisticated sensors capture these spectral signatures and compare them against pre-programmed material profiles. When an unwanted material is detected, high-speed pneumatic ejectors remove it from the product stream with remarkable precision.

In AI-enabled models, machine learning algorithms continuously analyze sorting results and optimize performance without human intervention. The chute-type NIR sorters are ideal for free-falling granular materials, while belt-type models handle larger or irregularly shaped items. Both configurations maintain exceptional sorting accuracy while processing materials at industrial-scale throughput rates that far exceed manual sorting capabilities.

Application Scenarios

NIR Sorters are revolutionizing material processing across numerous industries. In food processing, they remove foreign materials and defective products while ensuring food safety. Recycling facilities use them to separate different plastic types with high purity for effective material recovery. The mining industry benefits from their ability to identify valuable minerals based on chemical composition rather than just color or shape.

Specialty applications include pharmaceutical ingredient sorting, textile recycling, and electronic waste processing. The technology continues to find new applications as industries recognize its potential for improving product quality and operational efficiency while reducing waste.

Purchasing Guide

When selecting an NIR Sorter, consider your material characteristics, required throughput, and sorting precision needs. Chute-type models work best for free-flowing granular materials, while belt-type versions accommodate larger or irregular items. Operations requiring maximum adaptability should consider AI-enabled models, though they represent a higher initial investment. Always evaluate after-sales support and service availability from the manufacturer.

Maintenance Guide

Regular maintenance ensures optimal NIR Sorter performance. Daily cleaning of optical components prevents material buildup that could affect detection accuracy. Periodic calibration using standard reference materials maintains sorting precision. The pneumatic system requires regular inspection for leaks, and all moving parts need proper lubrication. AI models benefit from periodic software updates that enhance their recognition capabilities based on accumulated operational data.

Discarded plastics and electronic waste can be feed materials for NIR sorting.
Discarded plastics and electronic waste can be feed materials for NIR sorting.

Core Features and Advantages

NIR Sorters offer unparalleled material discrimination capabilities that go beyond surface characteristics. They can distinguish between different plastic polymers, identify organic contaminants in food products, and separate valuable minerals from waste rock - tasks impossible for conventional color sorters. The technology significantly reduces false rejects while maintaining high purity levels in the sorted product, leading to improved yield and profitability.

The integration of AI in advanced models brings self-learning capabilities that adapt to changing material conditions automatically. With minimal operator input required, these machines deliver consistent performance around the clock. Compared to manual sorting or basic color sorting methods, NIR technology provides superior sorting accuracy, higher throughput, and lower operational costs over the long term.

Technical Specifications

Modern NIR Sorters typically feature high-resolution NIR spectrometers with wavelength ranges between 900-1700nm, capable of detecting subtle molecular differences. Processing capacities vary by model, with chute-type machines handling 1-10 tons per hour and belt-type units processing up to 15 tons per hour for larger materials. Advanced models incorporate multiple ejection systems with response times under 5 milliseconds for precise material removal.

The AI-enabled versions include powerful computing platforms capable of processing spectral data and making sorting decisions in real-time. These systems often feature touchscreen interfaces for easy operation and remote monitoring capabilities. All NIR sorters are constructed with durable materials suitable for industrial environments and include comprehensive safety systems to protect both operators and equipment.

Specification Comparison

The following provides a brief comparison between the M3 model (representative of Chute Type NIR Sorting Machine) and the B1200 model (representative of Belt Type NIR Sorting Machine).

SPECIFICATIONM3B1200
Power2.6 KW4.8 KW
Capacity2-5 T/H3-8 T/H
Camera NumberSIXEIGHT
Accuracy99.99%99.99%
Size (mm)1800X1650X20202750X1950X1580
Weight750kg1200kg
Sorting MoldColor identification / Size identification / Edge identification / Texture identification / Shape identification
Camera Pix5400 Pixel
EjectorSuper-High Speed Matrix Ejectors
Light SourceLED RGB three-primary color model lighting systems
CCD SensorTOSHIBA Micron-sized superior HD RGB
Touch ScreenHITACHI 10.4 inch operation screen system (Remote debugging after connecting to WIFI)
Contact Us