If you belong to manufacturing, fabrication, shipbuilding, and warehousing, and your operators need to handle heavy steel on daily basis, then only a few tools hold as much significance as lifting magnets. Imperative to heavy-duty steel lifting, these magnetic tools actually simplify life when it comes to handling plates, bars, beams or fabricated assemblies.

Prefer choosing permanent magnets and you don’t need anything else other than the power of magnetism. Independent of electricity, magnetic lifting devices offer a reliable, fast, and safe way to lift and transport steel and other ferrous materials.

Lifting magnet explained

In today’s steel industry, lifting magnets are considered superior to more traditional lifting devices. Meant to lift ferrous loads such as steel plates, billets, pipes, sheets, and bars, magnetic lifters are below-the-hook devices designed to pick materials using magnetic force. They are different from traditional hooks, chains, or slings. The lift attaches directly to the steel surface, creating a secure hold that allows operators to move heavy loads with cranes, hoists, or gantries. Operators don’t need to reach under the suspended material, which ensures their safety.

Use of permanent magnetic lifts

Magnetic lifts generally fall into two categories: electromagnetic and permanent magnetic lifts. There are electro-permanent magnets as well. Among these, permanent magnetic lifts are widely preferred for many industrial applications.

Permanent magnetic lifts

These lifts are made from permanent magnets, which use their internal magnetic field. They don’t need any external power source. Permanent magnetic lifts use high-strength permanent magnets, such as often rare-earth magnets, to generate a powerful magnetic field. A manual lever or switch is used to activate or deactivate the magnetic force. When engaged, the magnet firmly grips the steel load; when disengaged, the magnetic field is neutralized, allowing the load to be released.

Their simple and reliable operation even during electricity blackouts ensure their popularity across industries.