The Role of Magnetic Drum Separators in Modern Industrial Filtration Equipment

21 Nov 2025 | Family

Every production line that relies on cutting, milling or grinding depends on clean coolant. However, when metal fragments happen to mix into the coolant, the fluid turns abrasive and starts to wear pumps, seals and tools. This occurs when flow rates decrease and temperatures rise, prompting the system to be drained and cleaned. Many industrial plants now use a magnetic drum separator as part of their filtration circuit to control the build-up before it interrupts production.

How a Magnetic Drum Supports Filtration Systems

A magnetic drum separator uses permanent magnets to pull ferrous particles out of the coolant and oil. The Interfil magnetic drum separator does this through a rotating stainless-steel drum that passes through the fluid stream. As the drum turns, magnetic poles collect iron and steel particles, while clean fluid continues to flow through the line. A spring-loaded scraper removes captured waste into a collection bin, allowing filtration to keep running without supervision or frequent shutdowns.

Why Coolant Filtration Affects Productivity

Coolant is more than temperature control. It carries metal waste from every job. Without proper coolant filtration, this waste can damage tools and lead to unplanned maintenance. Plants that maintain cleaner coolant gain:

  • Longer service life for pumps and grinding wheels
  • Lower disposal and fluid replacement costs
  • Reduced downtime between shifts
  • Consistent cutting performance across equipment

What the Magnetic Drum Removes

Every facility produces a different mix of contaminants: fine swarf, oxidised grit, and small ferrous dust. The Interfil drum captures these to sub-micron levels by using heavy-duty ceramic or rare-earth magnets to stop metallic particles from circulating through the coolant line, the point where the most hidden wear begins. According to ScienceDirect, magnetic separation remains one of the most reliable methods for removing ferrous contaminants from industrial fluids. A magnetic drum separator reduces that gradual damage and confirms what many operators already know: the smallest contaminants cause the greatest wear.

FAQs

What size particles can a magnetic drum separator remove?
Interfil’s design captures ferrous material down to below one micron, depending on the coolant’s viscosity and flow rate.

Can a magnetic drum separator work with mixed waste?
Yes. Magnetic separation handles ferrous materials, while non-ferrous waste is managed by secondary systems such as vacumatic or centrifugal filters.

Does a magnetic drum separator require frequent cleaning?
No. The drum cleans itself during operation. The only task for operators is to empty the collection bin at intervals depending on production volume.

Automation That Keeps Production Running

Conventional filters clog and need constant replacement. A magnetic drum separator rotates continuously at around 2.5 rpm and clears debris as it collects. Its stainless-steel build prevents corrosion, and the scraper blade maintains even contact so the flow remains steady across shifts.

To discuss automated filtration systems that reduce manual cleaning across production lines, contact Interfil for technical specifications and local support.

Built Locally for Industry Use

Each magnetic drum separator is manufactured and tested by Interfil. Local production means reliable access to spare parts and technical support without long delays. With more than 30 years in industrial filtration, we continue to supply separators, oil skimmers and vacumatic systems fitted for manufacturing across Australia.

Selecting the Right Drum Separator

Before contacting us about installing a magnetic drum separator, first review:

  • The amount and type of ferrous material in your coolant
  • Flow rate and temperature range of your system
  • Space available for automatic discharge and maintenance access

Speak With the Interfil Team

Contact Interfil to see how a magnetic drum separator can improve your coolant management and protect equipment. Our team can provide detailed information on compatible systems and practical options for your facility. We are also available for on-site visits to assess existing filtration and advise on the most efficient configuration for your line.

Read Also:
Innovations in Oil-Water Separation Technology for Industrial Applications
Importance of Oil –Water Separation