Optical Sorting Machinery Market Forecasts To 2030 - Global Analysis By Type (Cameras, Hyperspectral Cameras & Combined Sorters, Lasers and NIR Sorters), Sorting Platform (Automated Defect Removal Systems (ADR), Belt Sorter, Channel Sorter and Other Sorti

Optical Sorting Machinery Market Forecasts To 2030 - Global Analysis By Type (Cameras, Hyperspectral Cameras & Combined Sorters, Lasers and NIR Sorters), Sorting Platform (Automated Defect Removal Systems (ADR), Belt Sorter, Channel Sorter and Other Sorting Platforms), Capacity (Low Capacity, Medium Capacity and High Capacity), Application (Food Processing, Mining & Metallurgy and Other Applications) and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Optical Sorting Machinery Market is accounted for $2.72 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $5.62 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 10.9% during the forecast period. Optical sorting is an automated technique that sorts products using a variety of optical sensors, including lasers, cameras, X-rays, hyperspectral imaging, photodetectors, and sophisticated programming. The ability to maximize yield and better comprehend crucial elements of processing operations has been made possible in recent years due to the advancements in intelligent software and detection technology. One major benefit of optical sorter machines is that they offer higher performance with user-friendly and simple-to-learn software, better product quality, and minimal good product loss.

According to Nomura and Momose, the average service lifespan of machinery and equipment owned by Japanese businesses is 16.7 years, whereas Erumban (2008) estimated the average service lifespan of machinery and equipment in the Netherlands to be 26 years, which is significantly longer.

Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing demand for quality assurance

Industries such as food, agriculture, and manufacturing increasingly prioritize delivering high-quality products to consumers. Optical sorting machinery plays a pivotal role by utilizing advanced sensors and camera systems to meticulously inspect and sort products based on quality parameters. This technology ensures that only defect-free and safe items reach the market, meeting stringent quality standards and enhancing consumer confidence. As businesses continue to focus on quality control, the adoption of optical sorting machinery is expected to rise, driving the growth of this market.

Restraint

High initial investments

Acquiring and installing this advanced technology can be capital-intensive, deterring smaller businesses and organizations with limited budgets from adoption. The substantial upfront costs encompass not only the purchase of sorting equipment but also infrastructure adjustments and training. As a result, many potential users may hesitate to invest in optical sorting solutions, even though they offer long-term benefits such as improved quality control and reduced waste. Manufacturers and providers need to address cost concerns and offer financing options to make optical sorting machinery more accessible to a wider range of industries and businesses.

Opportunity

Growth in mining and ore sorting

As the demand for minerals continues to rise, the mining industry is increasingly turning to optical sorters to enhance ore processing efficiency. These machines can accurately and rapidly identify valuable minerals from waste rock, reducing energy and water consumption and improving overall resource recovery rates. With the emphasis on sustainable mining practices and resource conservation, optical sorting technology offers a compelling solution. As mining operations expand and seek to optimize their processes, the demand for optical sorting machinery in this sector is expected to see considerable growth over the forecast period.

Threat

Limited market penetration in developing regions

While the technology is gaining traction in developed countries, factors such as budget constraints, lack of awareness, and a slower pace of industrial modernization can hinder its adoption in emerging markets. The potential benefits of optical sorting such as improved product quality and reduced waste may not be fully realized in regions where resources for capital investment are limited. To address this threat, manufacturers and providers need to tailor their offerings to the specific needs and economic conditions of developing regions and invest in educational initiatives to raise awareness about the advantages of optical sorting technology.

Covid-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the optical sorting machinery market in several ways. Supply chain disruptions and lockdowns disrupted manufacturing processes, leading to delays in the production and delivery of sorting machinery. Many industries hit hard by the pandemic, such as automotive and manufacturing, reduced capital expenditures, affecting investment in sorting technology. Furthermore, economic uncertainties and reduced budgets for businesses postponed or canceled planned investments in optical sorters. These factors collectively slowed market growth and created short-term challenges for the industry.

The lasers segment is segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The laser segment is anticipated to be the largest during the forecast period. They are commonly used as light sources to illuminate and analyze the objects passing through the sorting system. Lasers provide a focused and intense light beam that enhances the accuracy and precision of object detection and classification. This enables optical sorters to distinguish between materials based on their color, shape, size, and other characteristics with exceptional speed and efficiency. Moreover, lasers are integral in applications like laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), where they can identify and sort materials with fluorescent properties, such as plastics and minerals. In the rapidly evolving optical sorting machinery landscape, lasers continue to drive advancements in sorting technology, improving the sorting process's reliability and versatility.

The belt sorter segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The belt sorter segment is expected to grow significantly in the market over the foreseeable period. It typically consists of a conveyor belt equipped with sensors and cameras. As materials or products move along the conveyor, the sensors and cameras capture data and analyze key attributes like color, shape, size, and defect levels. Based on this analysis, the belt sorter precisely diverts items into different chutes or pathways, segregating them based on predefined criteria. This technology finds extensive use in various industries, including food processing, recycling, and mining, where it enhances efficiency, reduces labor costs, and ensures accurate quality control by rapidly sorting materials or products with a high degree of accuracy.

Region with largest share

North America commands the largest share in the optical sorting machinery market due to its advanced industrial landscape and a strong focus on quality control. The region's well-established food processing, recycling, and mining industries drive the demand for optical sorters, ensuring that products meet stringent quality and safety standards. Stringent regulatory requirements in food safety and waste management have further propelled the adoption of optical sorting technology. Moreover, North America benefits from substantial technological advancements and a mature market ecosystem with leading manufacturers, making it a significant contributor to the global optical sorting machinery market, both in terms of revenue and innovation.

Region with highest CAGR

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to have the highest CAGR in the optical sorting machinery market due to several key factors. The region's burgeoning population and urbanization have increased the demand for processed food, which necessitates efficient sorting solutions. Additionally, growing environmental concerns have boosted the recycling industry, driving the adoption of optical sorting technology. Furthermore, Asia Pacific is witnessing substantial industrialization, particularly in countries like China and India, where industries are modernizing and prioritizing quality control. The lower labor costs in the region make automation through optical sorting machinery an attractive proposition, further propelling market growth.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Optical Sorting Machinery Market include Binder+Co AG, Bühler AG, Cimbria, CP Manufacturing, EMS Turnkey Waste Recycling Solutions, Fowler Westrup, Greefa, Key Technology, Llgaier Werke GmbH, National Recovery Technologies, National Recovery Technologies, LLC, Newtec A/S, Raytec Vision, Satake Corporation, Sesotec, The Allgaier Group and Tomra Systems ASA.

Key Developments

In September 2023, Bühler, the Swiss technology group, and NRGene Technologies Ltd, an Israeli genomics company, announced a strategic collaboration today in the field of black soldier fly (BSF) genetics and processing. The two companies are combining their expertise to provide solutions and services to this rapidly evolving industry.

In August 2023, Bühler, one of the world’s leading processing technology groups, and Entocycle, an insect technology company, have joined forces to drive adoption of large-scale black soldier fly (BSF) farms. The companies will provide solutions and expertise to serve customers in this segment, covering the multiple steps of the journey, from concept and basic engineering to execution of BSF facilities worldwide.

In March 2023, at Binder+Co AG, two superlative BIVITEC screening machines have made their way to their place of use. The largest expansion wave screens ever built have 35 square meters of screen area per screen deck. They are explosion-proof, equipped with extinguishing water equipment and integrated vibration range monitoring and work down to -40°C. BIVITEC screening machines are designed to screen 470 m³ of wood chips per hour.

Types Covered
• Cameras
• Hyperspectral Cameras & Combined Sorters
• Lasers
• NIR Sorters

Sorting Platforms Covered
• Automated Defect Removal Systems (ADR)
• Belt Sorter
• Channel Sorter
• Freefall & Chute-fed Sorters
• Mechanical Graders
• Single-file Inspection Systems

Capacities Covered
• Low Capacity (Less Than 6 Metric Tons of Product Per Hour)
• Medium Capacity (6 - 25 Metric Tons of Product Per Hour)
• High Capacity (More Than 25 Metric Tons of Product Per Hour)

Applications Covered
• Food Processing
• Mining & Metallurgy
• Pharmaceuticals
• Waste Management
• Other Applications

Regions Covered
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements