Eriez releases Metal Loss Monitor

The new Metal Loss Monitor (MLM) from Erie, Pa.-based separation technology provider Eriez enables operators to determine the quantities of valuable metals that are passing through their scrap yards unrecovered. It accomplishes this by continually scanning the residue stream for metal that has escaped the process, according to the company.

The MLM allows users to monitor the performance of their system for variations over time. The data gathered also offers insight to help evaluate whether different or additional separators should be incorporated to reduce metal losses, according to Eriez.

Eriez' Data Acquisition and Reporting package allows trend analysis and statistical process control. All data is visible via Eriez Remote Reporting, through which text alerts are immediately sent when losses rise above a prescribed number.

The Eriez Metal Loss Monitor can be positioned upstream to provide hand picking assistance with an optional ink marker system to alert pickers of locations to search for lost metal. Alternately, it can be placed downstream of pickers before the bunker. Downstream positioning gives supervisors the ability to track pickers' performance, provide incentives and accurately assess how many pickers are necessary. Metal that passes the monitor produces an alarm signal  and the event is recorded in a data file.

"We developed the MLM to give scrap yard managers the knowledge they need to diagnose specific weaknesses in their system," says Mike Shattuck, product manager — recycling equipment. "One of the intended goals is to gradually lower the pre-set threshold and reduce the physical count of metals escaping the process. The MLM supports our ongoing efforts and dedication to improving grade/recovery curve by providing absolute feedback on recovery performance."