Hydraulic Driven Magnet for Heavy Equipment Machines

[MikePhua]

Overview
Hydraulic driven magnets are specialized attachments for heavy equipment machines, designed to facilitate efficient handling of ferrous materials such as scrap metal, rebar, and steel plates in demolition, recycling, and construction applications. These magnets integrate a hydraulic power source with a strong magnetic system, enabling powerful lifting and precise placement of magnetic materials.
Key Features

• Hydraulic Power Source: The magnet is powered by the hydraulic system of the carrier machine (e.g., excavators or large loaders), converting hydraulic flow and pressure into electrical energy to activate the magnetic field, eliminating the need for separate electric power supplies.
  
• Compatibility: Designed for machines typically ranging in operating weight from approximately 20,000 to 70,000 pounds, or about 10 to 35 metric tons. Magnet models come in various diameters (ranging from 30 to over 90 inches) to suit different machine sizes and job requirements.
  
• Strong Magnetic Force: Lift capacities vary but can range from several hundred pounds for smaller units to several thousand pounds for larger magnets. For example, a 48-inch magnet might lift 1,450 pounds of scrap and up to 2,200 pounds of plate steel.
  
• Compact and Robust Construction: Built to withstand harsh jobsite conditions with durable housings, corrosion-resistant coatings, and shock-absorbing features.
  

Technical Specifications Examples

• Operating Pressure Max: Up to 350 bar (5,000 psi)
  
• Oil Flow Requirements: Typically 90 to 250 liters per minute (approx. 24 to 66 gallons per minute)
  
• Weight of Attachment: From 1,500 pounds (around 680 kg) to over 21,000 pounds (9,500 kg), depending on size and model
  
• Magnet Plate Diameter: From 1,060 mm (42 inches) to over 2,400 mm (95 inches)
  
• Generator Power: Ranges from 5 kW to 75 kW or more, converting hydraulic energy to magnetic power efficiently
  

Operational Advantages

• Efficient Material Handling: Speeds up scrap collection, sorting, and removal processes by eliminating manual material handling.
  
• Safety Improvements: Reduces chance of operator injury by improving control over heavy or hazardous metal objects.
  
• Environmental Benefits: Enables better recycling operations through improved metal segregation and sorting.
  
• Reduced Downtime: Quick attach and detach designs allow easy magnet installation and removal without complex procedures.
  

Applications

• Scrap yards and metal recycling facilities
  
• Demolition sites for sorting and moving rebar or steel debris
  
• Construction sites handling steel beams and reinforcements
  
• Salvage operations involving metallic components
  

Terminology

• Hydraulic Flow (LPM/GPM): Volume of hydraulic fluid required to operate the magnet generator.
  
• Operating Pressure (bar/psi): Hydraulic pressure necessary for optimal magnet function.
  
• Magnet Plate Diameter: The size of the magnetic surface influencing lift area.
  
• Generator: Converts hydraulic power into electrical power for magnet activation.
  
• Duty Cycle: Percentage of maximum operational time the magnet can run without overheating.
  

Industry Insight
Manufacturers specializing in hydraulic magnets, such as Epiroc and Winkle Industries, emphasize customization to match magnet size and power with carrier machine capabilities. Machine-hydraulic capacity is a critical factor for efficient and safe magnet operation.
Summary
Hydraulic driven magnets are powerful, hydraulically powered attachments tailored for large heavy equipment machines weighing tens of thousands of pounds. They combine advanced hydraulic-to-electrical energy conversion with durable magnetic plates to offer safe, efficient handling of ferrous materials in recycling, demolition, and construction. Proper specification based on carrier hydraulic capabilities and jobsite needs ensures optimal performance, enhanced safety, and improved productivity.