This article forms part of our AI at Grundon series, where we’re shining a light on the great ways in which we’re using Artificial Intelligence to enhance our operations.
In 2022, Grundon took a major step forward by installing a AI-powered Fast Picker at our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Bishop’s Cleeve, Cheltenham. The robotic system was introduced to enhance the plastic waste sorting process by targeting and extracting higher value materials.
Sorting plastics like HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) has always been a challenge in MRFs, due to complexities in distinguishing their diverse forms, contamination issues, and high volumes. Achieving high purity levels when segregating these plastics is complex and requires accuracy that goes beyond traditional methods.
To address this challenge, the Fast Picker was retrofitted to our processing line, specifically to enhance the accuracy of food-grade plastic sorting. Since it’s integration, the robot has dramatically improved our ability to sort pesky items like milk bottles and soft drink bottles quickly and with exceptional precision.
Capable of picking up to 80 items per minute, the AI-powered Fast Picker combines speed with intelligent decision making, ensuring each item is correctly identified and sorted.
The result? Greater efficiency, less contamination and higher-quality recycled materials.
Watch this short video to see the robot in action and learn more.