CircularPeak | Independent Consultant and Operator Representative

Assess, optimize, and stabilize plant performance.
Data- and AI-assisted.

I support operators of recycling and sorting plants (MRF, LVP, MSW) in project final acceptance, operational stabilization, and plant optimization using clear operator logic, structured data evaluation, and data- and AI-assisted analysis to unlock the full performance potential of NIR-based sorting technology in day-to-day operations.

Independent Operator-Focused AI-Assisted

Response usually within 2 business days. Initial call: 30 minutes with a clear scope.

View into a modern sorting facility with conveyor systems and material streams

Typical operational starting points

Project acceptance stalls

Performance targets are not clearly evidenced. Discussions around contractual data and system boundaries slow down final acceptance.

Purity and recovery fluctuate

Product quality is inconsistent. Material losses increase. Root causes are not transparent.

OEE below target

Downtime is elevated. Subsystems are operating at limits, and robust shift-level data is missing.

Outcome focus: what must count in the end

KPI proof

Transparent before/after comparison with test design for throughput, quality, yield, and availability.

Lower losses

Material streams are optimized with intent: more valuable output, lower losses, and less downtime.

Stable daily operation

Standardized routines and practical training support stable performance at a high level.

Services structured as modules

Final acceptance and performance assessment

Acceptance support for operators with robust, contract-relevant documentation.

Open module

Process and plant optimization

Optimization in existing operations focused on sorting quality, recovery, and uptime.

Open module

Stabilization of critical phases

Technical support after commissioning, conversion, or in unstable quality phases.

Open module

Shift-team training on site

Hands-on training in sorting logic, material behavior, and key routines for efficient use of NIR-based sorting technology.

Open module

Interim management

Temporary technical leadership in demanding project and operating phases.

Open module

Data- and AI-assisted analysis

Analysis support with camera, software, and equipment for faster identification of optimization opportunities in sorting processes.

Open module

Measurable project track record

10+

Years in process optimization

25+

International projects

300+

Hours of on-site operational support

Largest single projects

45+

Sorting units

15+

Sorting fractions

175+

kt/y cumulative annual throughput

Data- and AI-assisted analysis in practice

Operational value

  • Faster root-cause analysis for quality issues and material losses
  • Concrete decision support for operational measures
  • Objective data basis for operators, project leads, and management

Use of neutral modern data- and AI-assisted systems for material stream analysis.

Data protection and plant data

  • Data collection only for agreed project purpose
  • Role-based access to analysis and reporting
  • Clearly defined datapoints, no unnecessary collection
  • GDPR-compliant processing per project agreement
AI-assisted material detection on a conveyor belt
Tablet-based analysis during on-belt evaluation

How a material stream optimization project runs

1. Diagnose

Consolidate KPI baseline, operating data, material flow, and shift observations.

2. Prioritize and set targets

Define objectives and target corridors together, for example higher PET, PE, and PP yield.

3. Data- and AI-assisted analysis

Use modern data- and AI-assisted systems to identify optimization potential in material streams.

4. Evaluate and derive actions

Analyze and interpret data, then translate it into concrete measures.

5. Implement

Implement optimization and establish it as standards in parameters, routines, and processes.

6. Train and embed

Train teams on the real plant: sorting logic, standards, checklists, and shift priorities.

7. KPI review

Review KPI regularly and adjust targets where needed until operation is stable.

FAQ for operators and technical managers

When is external operator representation useful?

Especially during final acceptance, after rebuilds, in unstable KPI phases, or when internal capacity for structured root-cause work is limited.

Which KPIs are typically in focus?

Usually throughput, purity, recovery, yield by fraction, availability, and unplanned downtime.

How does project onboarding work?

With a project check covering target picture, available data, plant status, critical symptoms, first hypotheses, and a realistic work plan.

Is the focus short-term or long-term?

Both. Short term means prioritized bottlenecks. Long term means stable standards and robust control logic.

What is the practical role of AI?

AI acts as analysis support for faster pattern and deviation detection in material streams. Operational decisions remain with the operator team.

Do you have practical experience with NIR-based sorting technology?

Yes. I have spent several hundred on-site hours in NIR-based sorting plants, especially in optimization, process analysis, and operational stabilization.

How is cooperation documented?

With clear formats: diagnostic report, test protocols, KPI comparison, action list, responsibilities, and review rhythm.

Are there manufacturer or supplier interests involved?

No. The work is independent and aligned with operator goals, contract reality, and verifiable outcomes.

How quickly can first effects become visible?

Depending on data quality and process state, often within a few weeks through prioritized actions and initial KPI trends.

Clear next steps instead of long lead times

In the initial call, we align on starting point, KPI priorities, available data, target outcomes, and a reliable project path.

Please include plant type, fractions, main issue, and preferred start window.