Magnetic classification

Magnetic separation is a well-developed area and many devices have been invented. In the future, industrial stage will only be achieved by the magnetic separators which present some economical advantages. Thus, we should design magnetic separators which are capable to perform many tasks at the same time, and/or to improve the relation accuracy vs expenditures. The area of magnetic classification within magnetic separation bears on the former case. In this paper the practical and theoretical definitions of differential magnetic classification are presented, and their distinction from selectivity stands out. The attempts to reach some sort of magnetic classification are reviewed, and the first optimised magnetic separator and classifier is briefly described. To achieve a fully optimised magnetic classification within magnetic separation on a device, some steps must be followed. Four of them – which were applied successfully to the development of the first optimised magnetic separator and classifier – are analysed in detail. Economical and practical advantages of using magnetic classification within magnetic separation on the same device applying only one step are described, as well as some potential industrial applications.