Tomra expands Flow Technology across its reverse vending machine portfolio

Shelton, Connecticut-based Tomra Collection Solutions has announced that it is expanding its Flow Technology across its portfolio of reverse vending machines (RVMs), which collect bottles and cans for recycling.

Tomra Flow Technology is a 360-degree recognition system used in RVMs. A connected system of cameras and sensors scans each recycled container so rapidly that the objects require no rotation, so the user can insert containers in a faster, continuous flow, according to the company. Flow Technology also offers anti-fraud features designed to ensure security and accuracy.

Previously available exclusively in Tomra’s premium T-9 and T-90 RVMs, Flow Technology is expanding to brand new products across the company’s range:

• The T-70 has joined T-90 in Tomra’s InPac product range, which combines the consumer interface and container storage in one standalone unit for a smaller footprint. T-90 serves stores receiving higher volumes of containers, while the compact T-70 is ideal for stores with medium volumes and limited space.
• Bulk Collection sees Tomra enter a new market segment, with an industrial offering for recycling depots, redemption centers and counting stations receiving large volumes of containers. Now commercially available, Tomra’s Bulk Collection product is compact and flexible, the company says. It builds on Tomra’s system architecture and modules for applications outside traditional RVMs.

Tomra also is introducing other new products as it enters new markets:

• A concept machine has found its niche as the smallest in Tomra’s portfolio, designed specifically for use in urban convenience stores. The machine also uses advanced spectrometer technology to recognize specific subtypes of container materials, the company says.
• The entry-level H-10 and H-11 RVMs feature the largest touch screens in the company’s range, at 21.5 inches, for greater consumer interaction and engagement. Now available, the H-10 and H-11 were developed in cooperation with one of the world’s largest suppliers of municipal smart recycling solutions.

All RVM products come as part of the three-pillar Tomra system, spanning reverse vending machines, service and the new Tomra Connect digital solutions.

Tomra Collection Solutions is part of the Tomra Group, which creates sensor-based solutions for optimal resource productivity.