The latest TOMRA Mining Technology Update for 2025 is in. TOMRA Mining is redefining how the industry approaches resource recovery. Its sensor-based sorting technologies allow operators to extract value from material once considered waste. This shift supports longer mine life and strengthens supply security for the global energy transition.
Mining companies face declining ore grades, stronger demand for critical minerals and growing ESG expectations. Sensor-based sorting addresses these challenges by improving mineral recovery and lowering environmental impact across operations.
Early Waste Removal Reduces Processing Costs
The ability to extract waste early in the process is reshaping mining efficiency. By removing barren material before downstream treatment, operators reduce the energy, water and chemicals needed for processing. This approach helps unlock value from lower-grade deposits that were previously uneconomic.
Lower ore grades and rising costs continue to pressure mining operations. As a result, companies now focus on extracting as much value as possible from every tonne of mined material.
TOMRA Mining Advances Sorting Efficiency with XRT, NIR and Laser Technology
TOMRA Mining applies advanced x-ray transmission, near-infrared and laser sorting systems that separate valuable minerals from waste rock before processing. This early intervention decreases the amount of material that must be crushed, milled and chemically treated. It increases recovery rates, reduces operational inputs and lowers tailings volumes.
TOMRA Mining global segment metals manager Rasoul Rezai explains the impact of selective sorting.
“We are able to recover more metal from the same amount of material,” he says.
“By rejecting waste early, operators feed higher-grade material into their mills, reduce operational expenditure, and improve overall efficiency. This is particularly crucial for critical minerals, where supply tensions are increasing worldwide.”
Global Projects Highlight the Value of Sensor-Based Sorting
Mines worldwide are reporting strong results with TOMRA’s sorting technology. At Eloro Resources’ Iska Iska polymetallic project in Bolivia, XRT tests showed the ability to reject large volumes of sub-cut-off waste. This reduces both capital and operating costs and allows lower-grade ore blocks to be processed.
In Europe, TOMRA Mining contributes to the Li4Life project. This initiative focuses on accessing lithium from existing deposits and tailings to reduce pressure on primary supply. The project demonstrates the growing role of sensor-based sorting in strengthening critical mineral supply chains.
New AI-Driven Technology Expands XRT Sorting Capabilities
Recent AI-powered advances have enhanced the performance of TOMRA’s XRT sorters. The OBTAIN system can double sorting capacity without changing machine size or design. The CONTAIN feature identifies inclusion-type ores such as tin, tungsten, nickel, copper and sulfides, detecting even the smallest inclusions. Together, they create what Mr Rezai describes as “a new set of wings” for XRT technology.
TOMRA has also developed the TS100 precision ejection system, which reduces air consumption by up to 70 percent. This system lowers operating costs and increases recovery rates. TOMRA’s wide range of technologies allows operators to design solutions specific to each ore type and deposit.
Mr Rezai says the benefits extend beyond processing.
“Sensor-based sorting doesn’t just improve processing, it reshapes mining strategy,” he said.
“By increasing the grade of feed to the mill and rejecting waste early, operators can extract more value from the same deposit, increasing both the size and longevity of the mine.”
The Future of Critical Minerals Depends on Efficient Recovery
Sensor-based sorting is becoming essential for the production of critical minerals. Projects such as the Pilbara lithium plant in Western Australia have confirmed the technology’s reliability and economic value. These results show how sorting can deliver both environmental benefits and improved recovery in a sector facing increasing pressures.
“Efficiency and recovery are paramount in an era of declining ore grades and rising demand,” Mr Rezai said.