As the global demand for solar energy increases, so does the volume of end-of-life solar panels. Efficient photovoltaic panels recycling is no longer optional – it’s essential. One key piece of equipment in this process is the electrostatic separator, which plays a crucial role in recovering valuable materials from dismantled solar panels.

What is an electrostatic separator for solar panels disposal?

An electrostatic separator is a machine that separates different materials based on how well they conduct electricity. After solar panels are crushed, especially the plastic-aluminum backsheets, all the tiny mixed particles look almost the same — but they behave differently under an electric field.

And this machine takes advantage of that difference. Then it charges the materials, then uses a strong electric field to separate metals like aluminum from non-metals like plastics. The result is a clean, dry, and highly efficient sorting process that doesn’t need water or chemicals. So, it’s especially useful for solar panel recycling because it can separate valuable resources that are otherwise difficult to recover by hand or traditional methods.

electrostatic separator for solar panels disposal

What is the output purity of electrostatic separator?

One of the most common questions from clients is: “How pure are the materials after electrostatic separation?” In most cases, the output purity can reach 95% or even higher, depending on the type and condition of the material.

Material Output Purity
Aluminum ≥ 97%
Plastics 95%–98%
Fiberglass 90%–95%

But what factor will affect the purity?

  • Particle size: The ideal particle size range is 0.1-2 mm. Because particles that are too large or too small will affect the sorting effect.

  • Dryness of material: Too high moisture content will affect the particle charge and result in decreased sorting accuracy.

  • Feeding uniformity: Uniform feeding helps the electric field to work stably and ensures sorting consistency.

  • Equipment calibration: Correct setting of voltage, drum speed and electrode angle will also affect the final purity.

What is the key components of an electrostatic separator？

To achieve high-efficiency and high-purity separation, an electrostatic separator is built with several specialized components that work together in a precise way.

key components of an electrostatic separator

This is the core power system of the separator. And it generates a strong and stable electric field (usually 20–60 kV) to charge the particles and allow separation based on conductivity. So,  without a stable high-voltage source, the separation efficiency drops significantly.

The feeding system ensures that the crushed material enters the machine evenly and consistently, usually via a vibrating feeder or belt conveyor. Because uniform feeding is essential for maintaining consistent separation results.

This component rotates and carries the material under the electric field. And conductive particles lose their charge quickly and drop off early. Non-conductive particles stick longer due to static force and are thrown farther.

Electrodes are placed close to the drum to charge the particles and create the electric field. And the angle, position, and strength of the electrodes are adjustable to suit different materials. For this, proper tuning of this system is key to achieving high purity.

After separation, materials are discharged into different bins based on their trajectory. And this can be 2-way or 3-way depending on how many types of materials you’re recovering.

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