Study on separation of nonferrous metal utilizing magneto-Archimedes method

In order to improve resource value, separation of nonferrous metals obtained from crushed materials of home appliances is required. In this study, we aimed to develop a continuous separation system by magneto-Archimedes method using magnetic fluid as a medium and the permanent magnet as a magnetic field source. Firstly, the separation conditions were examined in which only copper is settled and the difference in levitation positions between aluminum and other metals are over 1 cm. Based on the results, levitation experiment of each metal and separation experiment from the mixture of nonferrous metals were confirmed. The separation experiment showed that the continuous separation of copper and aluminum from a mixture of nonferrous metals is possible.