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.