Goudsmit Magnetics Group

Easy to install in existing free-fall or chute processes

CHUTE MAGNET FOR ANIMAL FEED INDUSTRY

Goudsmit Magnetics presents a new type of magnet that can be easily installed in existing free-fall or chute processes in applications such as those found in the animal feed industry. The chute magnet consists of a powerful Neoflux® (Nd-Fe-B) plate magnet that is strong yet lightweight. This magnet is a simple way of removing iron particles of approximately 60 µm to 5 mm in size from animal feed, powders and more. Important aspects for attaining good separation are that the magnet make optimum contact with the product, is easily cleanable and can also be easily integrated into existing production processes. The chute magnet has a fixed overall height but can be made to any width.

Installation

A chute magnet consists of a powerful Neoflux® (Nd-Fe-B) magnet, a hinge on which the magnet hangs, a cleaning plate and a mounting plate. During installation a location is sought where the product will make good contact with the magnet. We then make a hole in the existing ductwork at this spot and weld the mounting plate to the ductwork. The magnet is then mounted to it so the system is 100% sealed. This provides a means of safe, quick cleaning as well as optimum separation, which requires a chute angle of no greater than 45°.

Cleaning 

From the standpoint of safety, the operator must operate the chute magnet with two hands. The magnets are secured in the outermost cleaning position, after which he has both hands free for cleaning and the process can be resumed.

EHEDG certificated magnetic separator for the dairy and baby food industry

The Hydrohansu-type rotating cleanflow magnet recently introduced by Goudsmit Magnetic Systems BV of Waalre (NL) was developed in collaboration with producers of top-tier food products. The driving force was a pressing need for removal of very fine iron (Fe), AISI 304 and 316L particles in the dairy industry, for products such as baby food, yet it is also suitable for use in the sugar and lactose industry.  Rotating magnets prevent the accumulation of fatty powders on the magnetic bars and guarantee a high level of separation. The new magnet system is hygienically designed in accordance with the EHEDG guidelines and can be cleaned semi-automatically.

Hygienic design

The single-piece, hydroformed housing is made entirely of grade 316 stainless steel and therefore has no dead ends, sharp corners or welded seams, which prevents bacterial growth. The complete system has a high quality surface finish (Ra ≤ 0.6 µm). The magnet rotor has pneumatically operated magnet bars, is mounted in the door and rotates on a bearing. To prevent product from entering the space between the rotor and the housing, it is fitted with a removable labyrinth air lock. A continuous, clean stream of air (+0.2 bar) feeds that air lock and blows from the inside towards the product chute. The use of rotating pneumatic magnet bars ensures that the powerful magnetic value (11,500 gauss) is in direct contact with the product. Tests have shown that in addition to separating Fe (99%) a high percentage of the AISI 304 and 316L particles are also separated.

Cleaning

The semi-automatic cleaning process can be performed during a production stop. After the rotor is released and pulled out manually, compressed air internally shifts the magnet packs to the cleaning position. This provides a quick, easy and safe cleaning method in which the metal particles are carried away. Moreover, the Hydrohansu –in comparison to previous versions of rotating magnets– no longer has any delicate loose parts.  This results in a high level of efficiency and user-friendliness. Sensors ensure that all these steps can only be performed in the correct order.