an apparatus for separating mixed particles divides the material to be sorted into constituent fractions comprising non - ferromagnetic particles of different electrical conductance . the particles are fed onto a conveyor , e . g . a conveyor belt that linearly moves the particles in a given direction . a rotating magnetic system is arranged below and / or above the conveyor belt . the rotary direction of the magnetic system is chosen so that the direction of movement of the surface of the magnetic system and the direction of movement of the surface of the conveyor belt are different . the fractions of non - ferromagnetic particles that are electrically charged to varying degrees are thereby divided between a plurality of collecting containers .