Recycling of metal alloys like aluminum

Metal alloys like aluminium and steel can be recycled to make them pure and usable again. The process of separating different metals from the alloy is known as metallurgical separation. There are various methods of metallurgical separation, including:

Magnetic separation

This method is used to separate ferromagnetic metals like iron and steel from non-ferromagnetic metals like aluminium. The alloy is passed through a magnetic separator where the magnetic metals are separated and collected.

Eddy current separation

This method is used to separate non-ferromagnetic metals like aluminium, copper, and zinc from each other. The alloy is passed through an eddy current separator where a magnetic field is created. This field induces eddy currents in the metal, which in turn creates a magnetic field that repels the metal. The non-ferromagnetic metals are then separated and collected.

Gravity separation

This method is used to separate metals with different densities. The alloy is melted, and the metals are allowed to settle based on their density. The heavier metals settle at the bottom, and the lighter ones float at the top. They are then separated and collected.

Chemical separation

This method is used to separate metals based on their chemical properties. The alloy is treated with chemicals that react differently with each metal in the alloy. The metals are then separated based on their reaction with the chemicals.

In conclusion, recycling metal alloys is an important step towards sustainable development. Metallurgical separation is a crucial process that ensures that the metals are pure and usable again.