When a rapidly changing magnetic field passes through a conductive metal (like aluminum), it induces circulating electrical loops called eddy currents. By Lenz’s Law, those currents create their own magnetic field that opposes the original field—resulting in a repulsive force.
Recycling facilities use this physics to separate non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper) from mixed waste streams:
1️⃣ Waste moves along a conveyor belt.
2️⃣ At the end, it passes over a high-speed rotating magnetic rotor (inside a non-magnetic shell).
3️⃣ The changing magnetic field induces eddy currents in conductive metals.
4️⃣ Those metals experience a repulsive force and are literally “thrown” forward into a separate collection bin.
5️⃣ Non-conductive materials (plastic, glass) fall normally.
No chemicals. No contact sorting. Just applied electromagnetism.
Why it works:
• The induced current density depends on electrical conductivity, magnetic field strength, and relative velocity.
• Aluminum responds s...
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