Abstract: A magnetic separator (2) for separating magnetic particles from a passing slurry material comprises a canister (22) having a paramagnetic matrix element (24) disposed therein. Inlet and outlet manifold assemblies (30, 32) are disposed on either side of the canister for directing the slurry through the matrix element. Diffusers (60), positioned between the inlet and outlet manifold assemblies and the matrix element, comprise a hollow conical body (62) with a narrow inlet (64) facing the inlet manifold and an enlarged outlet (66) facing the matrix element. The diffusers define inner and outer flow passages for the slurry so as to distribute the slurry over a large portion of the paramagnetic matrix element, thereby avoiding localized saturation of the matrix element and increasing the on line time of the apparatus.