SUB PROCESS
2.1 Inspecting & Sorting
Updated 04/2025
Short Description
Upon arrival, each battery undergoes a thorough visual and technical inspection. This may include checking for physical damage such as swelling, leaks, corrosion, or punctures, which could indicate potential safety hazards like the risk of thermal runaway. In facilities also handling black mass, incoming material is inspected to verify consistency, appearance, and compliance with agreed metal content specifications—often using sampling and rapid analysis methods.
All batteries and black mass shipments are sorted, weighed, and documented in a tracking system, typically an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) or MES (Manufacturing Execution System) system, ensuring accurate record-keeping for regulatory compliance and inventory management.
Inputs
Outputs
Relevant Product Groups
These are relevant product groups for Battery Inspection & Sorting. All listed solutions are vetted by industry experts to ensure they meet real-world recycling needs. Our supplier network is growing, with more products under review.
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We are constantly updating our available options and adding new products to our catalogue. Check again at a later time.
Challenges
Accurate and efficient inspection and sorting are critical first steps in the battery recycling process—but they also present major operational and safety challenges. Many facilities still rely heavily on manual processes, and while some automated systems exist (such as X-ray–based tools for small-format batteries), large-scale automated sorting for EV battery packs and modules is not yet widely deployed.
With a growing variety of battery types, unknown chemistries, and inconsistent labeling, inspection teams must make high-stakes decisions under uncertain conditions. Here are key challenges that illustrate the need for better tools, standardized procedures, and ongoing innovation in this space
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