CRP Processing Technologies & Equipment 1

Question 1

What is the primary function of an eddy current separator in a MRF?

Accepted Answer

To repel and separate non-ferrous metals (primarily aluminum) from the conveyor stream using a rapidly alternating magnetic field

Answer

An eddy current separator creates a rapidly alternating magnetic field that induces repulsion in non-ferrous metals like aluminum, ejecting them away from non-metallic materials.

Question 2

Which MRF equipment uses near-infrared (NIR) technology to identify and sort materials?

Accepted Answer

Optical sorter

Answer

Optical sorters use NIR spectroscopy to identify polymer resin types and paper grades by their unique light absorption signatures, then use air jets to divert target materials.

Question 3

What is a 'trommel screen' used for at the front end of a MRF sorting line?

Accepted Answer

Screening out small fines, broken glass, and contaminants that would interfere with downstream sorting equipment

Answer

Trommel screens rotate a drum with holes that allow small materials (fines, broken glass, dirt) to fall through, cleaning the stream before it reaches optical sorters and other sensitive equipment.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a 'ballistic separator' in a single-stream MRF?

Accepted Answer

To separate 2D flat materials (paper/cardboard) from 3D containers using spinning paddles that throw lighter flat items up and roll heavier containers down

Answer

Ballistic separators use rotating elliptical paddles that propel flat 2D materials (like paper) up a screen while 3D containers roll down and off, separating these two major stream components.

Question 5

Which MRF processing problem is most directly caused by 'tanglers' such as plastic bags, hoses, and wire?

Accepted Answer

Wrapping around rotating equipment shafts and screens, causing jams and requiring costly manual cleaning downtime

Answer

Flexible film and wire tanglers wrap around the shafts and paddles of screens, balers, and conveyors, causing frequent jams that require workers to shut down and manually cut material free.

CRP - Certified Recycling Professional Practice Test

CRP - Certified Recycling Professional Practice Test

CRP Processing Technologies & Equipment 1