Atlas Copco hydro magnet separates iron and steel from concrete debris

Stockholm, Sweden-based Atlas Copco’s hydro magnets separate valuable iron and steel from concrete waste for recycling. The hydro magnets can be used with carriers that have existing uni directional auxiliary circuits with a signal line to power and control the magnet. They are available as fixed or mobile units where the magnet is attached by the use of a chain. The hydro magnets can handle 617- to 16,535-pound loads.

The magnet features a flow divider that provides flow and pressure to an onboard hydraulically driven generator. Highly activated voltage reaches the magnetic strength to attract a large amount of ferrous material and hold it firmly in place. An alternation of the polarity is designed to accelerate demagnetization.

The optimized power/weight ratio and intelligent interaction between all integrated components in the attachment offers optimal handling performance.

The electronically controlled generator has a digital controller in a waterproofed body. The digital generator control technology is designed to gives a magnetization and demagnetization process cycle that is up to 25 percent shorter than conventional magnet controllers. The digital controller also protects the hydro magnet against the risk of damage caused by short circuiting, overheating or excessively high or low revolutions of the generator.

The magnet plate is made to handle harsh environments. A hermetically sealed steel case protects the magnet coil against mechanical and environmental effects, and an external Hardox steel ring protects against wear. The large steel surface compensates for temperature increases. 

A multi-functional diagnostic panel in a waterproofed body indicates current working status and potential faults for troubleshooting. No special maintenance is needed apart from periodic inspections of the mounting hardware and electrical cable connections between the generator body and the magnet plate.