TOMRA Recycling has strengthened its support for recyclers across the Americas with the launch of a new Test & Training Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The 4,500-square-foot facility was officially inaugurated on April 22, 2026, during a grand opening event attended by recyclers, partners, and company representatives, who were given a comprehensive tour of the expanded site.
The new center is designed to help recyclers develop flexible and customized solutions that enhance throughput, yield, purity, and overall profitability. It features a fully equipped testing circuit with advanced sorting technologies, a dedicated warehouse for essential parts, and modern training facilities to support both customers and internal teams.
At the core of the installation is TOMRA’s latest generation AUTOSORT system, powered by its deep learning AI technology, GAINnext. This system is capable of handling a wide range of materials—from municipal solid waste and paper to plastics and packaging—using flexible sensor configurations. GAINnext enhances performance by enabling precise visual classification of complex and difficult-to-identify materials, improving recovery rates and purity levels.
For plastic flake sorting, the facility incorporates AUTOSORT FLAKE and INNOSORT FLAKE technologies. These systems utilize advanced near-infrared (NIR) spectrometry, high-resolution cameras, and metal detection to simultaneously identify polymers and colors, ensuring high-purity outputs even from mixed or contaminated streams.
The testing circuit also includes the Waste Analyzer from PolyPerception, which uses deep learning and real-time imaging to monitor material flow. This technology provides key performance insights such as throughput, waste composition, and yield loss, enabling recyclers to optimize operations and reduce costs.
During the opening ceremony, attendees witnessed live demonstrations showcasing the capabilities of AUTOSORT, GAINnext, and INNOSORT FLAKE systems. The demonstrations highlighted how AI-driven object recognition and adaptable sorting configurations can address complex challenges across materials like paper, packaging, wood, and metals.
Company leaders emphasized that the new facility represents more than just an expansion of testing capabilities. It reflects a broader commitment to supporting customers throughout the entire equipment lifecycle—from pre-sales consultation and installation to after-sales service and ongoing technical training.
To further enhance customer support, TOMRA has introduced two specialized one-day training programs: Operational Maintenance Training and Maximizing Performance Training. These programs cover essential topics such as machine operation, safety, preventive maintenance, performance optimization, and troubleshooting.
With expanded testing capacity, shorter lead times, and greater scheduling flexibility, the new center enables recyclers in the Americas to leverage TOMRA’s global expertise more effectively. The company also plans to scale up both internal technician training and external customer programs, reinforcing its focus on innovation and long-term partnership.
Overall, the new Test & Training Center positions TOMRA Recycling to deliver advanced, data-driven solutions that help recyclers tackle evolving industry challenges while maximizing efficiency and profitability.