Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 13th March 2025 Issue no. 1153
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Tackling the growing problem of discarded nitrous oxide cartridges
Nitrous oxide cartridges have become an increasing challenge in waste management. Improperly handled containers can cause explosions during energy recovery, damage facilities, and pose a significant risk to both staff and the environment.
In collaboration with Litech and the Waste Management & Recycling Agency - Oslo Municipality, Envac is now testing an innovative solution to identify and remove the cartridges before they reach incineration.
Litech's sensor uses electromagnetic induction and AI to detect nitrous oxide containers - even when they are hidden within other waste. Envac initiated the project in Mjölby, where it conducted the first tests of the technology at its test facility in collaboration with Litech.
To carry out this pilot project, Envac's vision technology was optimised and multiple parameters added to the rejection units in the waste stream. Envac's technology connects to the sensor, which then activates its ejectors to automatically sort out the bottles at the waste facility before they reach energy recovery. As a result, the designated reject units are now dedicated solely to sorting out gas bottles.
"Every sorted bottle reduces the risk of operational disruptions and damage to both machines and people - each rejected bottle is a win!" says Henrik Reutgard, automation engineer, who has been instrumental in making the project possible from Envac's side.
Right now, the system is being tested at the Haraldrud facility in Oslo, Norway, and the results look promising! Last week, two additional sensors were being installed to further enhance safety and efficiency.
Synne Sauar, CEO & co-founder of Litech says of the collaboration: "Litech has developed what we like to call 'the world's smartest metal detector. By combining sensor technology with Envac's automation, we can now quickly and efficiently remove hazardous objects from the waste stream."
NRK - Norway's largest news outlet, has highlighted the issue and Envac's efforts to find solutions - watch the report at:
https://tv.nrk.no/serie/distriktsnyheter-oestlandet/sesong/202501/episode/DKOV98013025
You can also watch Litech explain the technique at: www.youtube.com
20th February 2025