05
Mar
How often have you had to walk around your workplace while manually picking up the swarf by hand? Not only is this tedious but it can take a toll on your back and body. A magnetic sweeper offers a solution. You simply need to push it across the floors in your workplace to pick up the swarf.
This is used anywhere you have metal debris, including smooth or uneven rough terrain like gravel, dirt and lawns. Given their convenience, magnetic sweepers are rising in popularity which means that new models with the latest features are constantly emerging. To help you make an informed decision, there are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing.
Getting rid of metal debris is a breeze with a premium and easy-to-use magnetic broom. It’s available in various types, designed for different applications.
Magnetic push sweepers can be handheld or walk-behind. These highly convenient brooms are used for small areas like workshops, garages, and sidewalks. They often feature a quick-release function to dump collected debris.
Hanging or suspended models are mounted on lifting equipment like forklifts, trucks, or other vehicles. These heavy-duty alternatives are ideal for cleaning large areas like warehouses, parking lots, and construction sites. They can be permanent or electromagnets.
Same as the previous type, a tow-behind magnetic broom needs to be pulled by a vehicle such as a truck, ATV, or tractor. These designs are best for sweeping large outdoor areas like roads, airports, and factory yards. Plus, they are available in different widths for added efficiency.
Electromagnetic brooms are powered by electricity to create a strong magnetic field. They are used in heavy-duty applications such as clearing railways or large industrial sites. The greatest convenience is that they can be turned on or off as needed.
Permanent alternatives use strong permanent magnets like neodymium or ceramic. They do not require power to operate, making them energy efficient. These permanent choices are commonly found in push-type and hanging sweepers.
As their name implies, rotary magnetic brooms feature a rotating drum with magnets. These are best used for uneven surfaces or in environments with loose metal debris. Some models include self-cleaning mechanisms.
Since sweepers that work with magnet are attracted to any swarf, chips or other pieces of ferromagnetic debris, they feature a built-in collection tray. As you run the sweeper over the floors in your workplace, it will collect the ferromagnetic objects in this tray. If you plan to use it in the workplace, consider a model with adequate ground clearance.
The ground clearance represents the distance between the magnet’s bottom and the floor’s surface. With little or no clearance, you will be unable to pick up many objects. Instead, a 2-inch ground clearance allows you to pick up tiny to medium-sized ferromagnetic objects. Another feature to consider when choosing is the wheels. If the wheels are rough or poorly built, they may scratch the floor.
Alternatively, you may struggle to move. Go for an option that has smooth, high-quality wheels. A hand-operated release mechanism is a useful feature in magnetic sweepers. It avoids the need to bend your back to reach the collection tray. Pulling the handle releases the swarf and other ferromagnetic items from the magnet.
The magnet sweepers come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different applications and environments. They are commonly used in all kinds of settings, including construction sites, workshops, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, parking lots, garages, and outdoor areas like lawns and fields. All in all, these innovative tools make it easy to maintain a clean environment while preventing hazards like injuries or damage caused by stray metal objects.
Most of these sweepers are not designed to be used in wet environments. Moisture can weaken the magnetic field and produce rust on the magnets, reducing their efficiency. A magnet sweeper used in moist conditions may also be difficult to clean and maintain. If wet conditions are anticipated, it is better to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or look for sweepers that are specifically built for wet operation.
Additionally, keep in mind that magnetic brooms work best on ferrous (magnetic) materials, such as iron and steel. They are ineffective at picking up non-ferrous materials like aluminium, copper, and stainless steel. If ferrous and non-ferrous debris is in the area, consider using other methods to collect the non-magnetic materials.
Although sweepers with magnets are safe when used as directed and with proper precautions, always wear proper protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when operating with them, particularly important in places where there are possible risks or sharp items. When utilising a tow-behind sweeper, warn everyone in the area to keep a safe distance from the moving vehicle.
