In the aggregate, mining, and minerals industries, crossbelt (overband) magnets play a crucial role in protecting critical equipment like crushers, screens, and conveyors from damage caused by tramp ferrous metals. However, no single magnet fits all applications. Different designs are available to suit various operational needs, and understanding your setup is key to making the right choice. Bunting offers a wide range of permanent and electro crossbelt magnets designed to meet the unique demands of each operation.

The Crossbelt Magnet: A Reliable Workhorse

Bunting was among the first to develop and produce permanent crossbelt magnets in the early 1980s, setting a new standard in industrial metal separation. Over the years, these systems have evolved with advancements in magnet materials and manufacturing techniques, leading to improved efficiency and performance. Today, crossbelt magnets remain an essential component in ensuring smooth and safe operations by removing unwanted ferrous contaminants from the material stream.

Designed as a permanent system, a crossbelt magnet consists of a powerful magnet block housed within a durable frame, along with pulleys and a self-cleaning rubber belt. As materials pass beneath the magnet, it attracts and removes any tramp metal, preventing costly damage downstream. The choice between permanent and electro-magnetic systems depends on factors such as conveyor width, material depth, and the type of tramp metal present.

Key Models and Their Applications

Bunting’s OCW Heavy Duty Oil Cooled Electro Crossbelt Magnetic Separator is ideal for heavy-duty environments where maximum magnetic strength is required. It can handle wider gaps and heavier loads, making it perfect for deep troughed conveyors used in recycling or large-scale mining operations. Available in multiple sizes, the OCW can be installed inline over head pulleys or across conveyor belts ranging from 36” to 84” in width.

The ACW Heavy Duty Air Cooled Crossbelt Magnetic Separator is another top-tier option, offering high performance with minimal maintenance. Its air-cooling system ensures reliability without the need for oil, reducing long-term upkeep while maintaining strong magnetic fields. This model is especially effective in capturing fine ferrous particles, helping to improve product purity and reduce wear on downstream equipment.

Bunting’s Heavy-Duty Electro Crossbelt Magnetic Separators are engineered for maximum power and flexibility. These systems are suitable for a wide range of conveyor widths, from 24” to 78½”, and are capable of extracting ferrous material efficiently even from deep troughs. Whether positioned inline or spanning across the conveyor, they provide consistent performance in demanding environments.

How to Choose the Right Crossbelt Magnet

Selecting the right crossbelt magnet—whether permanent or electro—requires careful consideration of several factors. Bunting’s team of application engineers works closely with clients to evaluate the purpose of metal removal (such as plant protection), the characteristics of the tramp metal (including size and shape), and the properties of the material being conveyed (like particle size and load depth). This detailed analysis helps determine the most suitable magnet for each specific use case.

With decades of experience and a commitment to innovation, Bunting continues to deliver tailored magnetic separation solutions that meet the evolving needs of the mining and aggregate industries. Our goal is to ensure that every system not only performs reliably but also enhances operational efficiency and safety.

Ready to find the best solution for your operation? Contact us today to discuss your requirements or request a custom quote.