Eriez ® Magnetic Flocculators—Widely Used in Iron and Coal Mining—Now Applied in Steel Applications

Eriez® Permanent Magnetic Flocculators, which have long been a popular choice to aid in the separation of minute magnetic particles from liquids and slurries in iron and coal applications, are finding new use in steel and other industries for agglomerating fine magnetic contaminants in quench water, cooling oils and more, according to Eriez Director of Minerals and Materials Processing Jose Marin. Flocculation occurs when a slurry or liquid containing magnetic particles passes through the magnetic field. The fine particles become magnetized and attracted to each other, forming larger particles or “flocs.” These larger particles are less affected by flow turbulence and have enough mass to settle out of the slurry at a much faster rate than individual unflocculated particles. Eriez Permanent Magnetic Flocculators are available to accommodate pipeline volumes of 4 to 24 inches. Designed to install easily on existing pipework as well as new applications, units will mount to the floor or ceiling. There are no operating costs, parts to wear out or maintenance required. Eriez can engineer Permanent Magnetic Flocculators to suit any specific application need. Design variables include magnetic strength, retention time in the magnetic field, and the overall size of the flocculator.