Abstract: A magnetic separator is provided in which a conveyor belt is conducted over a belt drum to transport relatively electrically conductive particles. A magnetic system consisting of permanent magnets or electromagnets is rotated at a high speed at an eccentric location within the belt drum so that an air gap between the outer surface of the magnet system and the inner surface of the belt drum is not constant. As a result, the magnetic lines of force lose their influence on an iron particle coming between the belt drum and the conveyor belt. These iron particles can be removed from the belt drum or the conveyor belt by scrapers to avoid damage to the belt drum.