Why Magnets Fail

Under normal operating conditions, lifting magnets will require repairs due to continued use over an extended period of time when insulation deteriorates and metal components wear. However, lifting magnets will require premature repairs for the following reasons:

• Duty cycle is not observed.
  
• Higher than nameplate voltage is applied.
• Magnet leads become disconnected or severed while energized.
• Discharge circuit in controller is not working properly.
• Magnet is placed directly on the ground or in water.
• Voltage is turned on prior to contacting the load.
• Free falling.
• Casting to retrieve material.
• Magnet is used as a battering ram.

Premature magnet repairs and failures lead to downtime and unnecessary repair costs. To preserve the life of your magnet and avoid unnecessary repairs, use the following guidelines:

• When a magnet is energized, heat is being generated. Therefore, the magnet should not be energized until it is in contact with the load. This practice also prevents pieces from jumping up and damaging the bottom place, and allows the magnet to get a full load.
• Observe the duty cycle. This gives the magnet time to cool, and should allow the magnet to operate at its designed rating throughout the day.
• Keep the magnet dry.
• Watch the magnet temperature by monitoring the duty cycle, voltage and amps.
• Heat is dissipated through the magnet’s bottom plate faster than any other part of the magnet, so do not store the magnet on the ground. Magnets will also absorb moisture from the ground, which can lead to shorted and/or grounded conditions in the windings.
• When not in use, the magnet should be placed on wood timbers or a stand that allows air to circulate around the entire magnet. Magnets stored outside should be covered.

Magnetech offers operator training seminars to magnet owners that provide the insight and knowledge needed to properly and safely operate the magnet resulting in less downtime and repair costs. Magnet owners and operators can get more value and durability out of their magnets through Magnetech’s operator training.

How to Select the Best Locomotive Main Generator Repair Services

Locomotive main generator rewind services can restore the generator to original performance. It would also contribute in saving time and money. Purchasing a new generator can be costly and time consuming as customers could end up waiting for months before their new generator is delivered. Solve this problem by rewinding the generator to like-new condition. Before you zero in on a provider for the restoration of a locomotive generator, it is important that you do your homework.. The process is easy and simple; it can save thousands of dollars if you get it right the first time.

Guidelines for selecting locomotive main generator repair:

• Use the internet to research potential service providers.
• Check for those providers that have a membership with railroad associations. This would give you an assurance that the provider is knowledgable in its field.
• The provider should own certifications from:
1. Association of American Railroads (AAR)
2. UL® Certified
• Look at past projects of the firm. Client comments and testimonials will give you a clearer picture about the quality of services offered.
• Look for a provider who offers multiple related services, such as AC/DC motor rewinds, alternator rewind, cooling fan refurbishment, and electrical/pneumatic control reconditioning.. Being able to deal with a single vendor for maintenance of multiple components saves you money.
• Look for 24/7 emergency services. To solve breakdown problems, it is important to provide round-the-clock service.
• Request quotes from several providers, and then go ahead with the selection.