Have you had your magnets checked lately?

Attention to product purity on the production line has never been greater, creating the need for manufacturers to detect and eliminate foreign objects and ferrous metals such as rust, nails, scale, work-hardened stainless and bolts before the end product reaches customers. Eliminating metal contamination also prevents damage to expensive processing machinery, reducing downtime and repair costs.

Many manufacturers today proactively invest thousands, if not millions, of dollars into magnetic separation and metal detection equipment, to reduce the risk that any foreign object or contaminant will be mixed in with their product and sold to their network of customers.

Permanent magnetic separators can be used to draw out fine tramp metal along critical points of the production line. These separators come in different styles and in various magnetic strengths, depending upon the application. However, periodically, they should all be tested to confirm their strength and to ensure compliance with current international food safety standards.

Eriez conducts magnet audits for food manufacturing companies across Australia, using procedures and documentation recommended by HACCP International. Certifications can be provided that give producers the documentation necessary to demonstrate their efforts to maintain product purity.

Eriez offers magnet pull tests and application inspection. On completion, the company’s technicians will provide a report which includes a validated test certificate. Even if it is not an Eriez product, Eriez specialists will audit any magnetic separation equipment, evaluate its effectiveness and offer recommendations that could improve the separation performance. The physical condition of the magnet, access and any safety concerns will also be checked.

Eriez specialists will also test the magnet’s strength and, if possible, compare to previous audits or OEM specifications to confirm it is still as strong as when first installed. More importantly, Eriez can provide recommendations and advice regarding food safety industry standards. Pull tests are an essential quality control tool used to monitor magnet strength to ensure optimum performance.

It is necessary to develop, implement and maintain an effective magnet auditing program. Regular magnet tests will help you maintain your magnetic separator’s performance and provide documentation which demonstrates your efforts towards improved product purity. This due diligence ensures that your product will comply with HACCP International Food Safety Standards.