Magnetic lifters, including electro-permanent magnet, electromagnet and permanent magnet. Need to be selected for different magnetic strengths when handling thin, medium or thick steel plates. Why can’t one magnetic lifter be universal for all steel plates? This is because the depth of penetration of a lifting magnet can have different effects.

If the magnetic lifter used for handling thin steel sheets has a large permeability depth, the thin steel sheets will tend to stick together. If the permeability depth of the lifting magnet used to handle thick steel sheets is not sufficient, the sheets will tend to fall off. Problems with steel handling magnets are mainly due to faulty design or improper use. Let’s take a look at the three different types of magnetic lifter that are best suited to each situation.

Permanent magnetic lifter

First, let’s talk about permanent magnet. This type requires manual switching of the magnetic state, unsuitable for use in factories where frequent lifting is required. Besides, its magnetic strength is hard to adjust. So it oftenly operates at maximum magnetic force, suitable for use where the specifications of the steel plates do not change frequently. What’s more, the size of permanent magnetic lifter is small, this makes it more suitable for lifting small steel plates. Permanent magnets are inexpensive and are still used by many hobbyists and small workshops.

Electromagnet

Second, a few words about electromagnets. Electromagnets need to be energised for a long period of time and are magnetised by an internal copper coil, which has a relatively large magnetic field and a deep permeability. For this reason, electromagnets are generally advantageous for picking up scrap, bundles of small workpieces and other workpieces with large air gaps. On the other hand, electromagnets with a large penetration depth are not suitable for lifting thin steel sheets. The coil will be energised for a long time and the temperature will be too high, affecting the magnetic strength and creating a safety hazard.

EPM magnetic lifter

At last, some words about electro-permanent magnet. The permeability depth of EPM is not as deep as an electromagnet, making it the best choice for lifting thin steel plate, allowing precise control. At the same time, the magnetic strength can be adjusted, making it ideal for lifting medium to thick plates. HVR MAG electro-permanent magnet lifter can be designed to lift multiple sheets and release a single sheet. It is energy-saving as the magnetic material maintains the magnetic field during lifting, just like a permanent magnet, without consuming electricity. The EPM is smarter than a permanent magnet and safer than electromagnet, but it is not foolproof. For work pieces with a large air gap, an electromagnet lifter may be better suited to your working conditions.

Overall, the EPM has a strong magnetic pull and can be used in most steel lifting situations. It is also the most intelligent and accurate magnetic lifter for handling. For more information about HVR MAG and our EPM magnetic lifter, please contact us at: export@hvrmagnet.com