Abstract: A magnetic separator includes a plurality of elongated magnetic members generally disposed with longitudinal axes extending in parallel relationship with one another. A first end plate is connected to adjacent terminal ends of the magnetic members to hold the magnetic members with the longitudinal axes generally defining a common plane. Non-magnetic sheathing members are disposed sheathing the entire longitudinal length of the magnetic members. A second end plate is connected to adjacent terminal ends of the non-magnetic members to provide longitudinal sheathing and unsheathing movement of the sheathing members with respect to the magnetic members for cleaning accumulated magnetic particles from the exterior surface of the non-magnetic members. The first and second end plates are adapted for reciprocating movement in the commonm plane, preferably in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the magnetic members to reduce bridging and clogging of the material flow.

Abstract: A magnetic article laner for use with a conveyor having a conveying surface carrying a plurality of magnetic articles randomly distributed in transverse positions on the conveying surface and moving in a generally horizontal planer path of travel includes magnetic members, disposed in a plane parallel to the path of travel and vertically spaced from the plurality of magnetic articles, for aligning the plurality of magnetic articles into a uniform transverse position defining a lane with a preselected linear path of travel. The magnetic members include north and south magnetic poles defining transverse boundaries of each magnetic lane, and an upstream portion of the magnetic lane has a greater magnetic field strength than a downstream portion of the magnetic lane. The plurality of magnetic articles are urged by divider members and magnetic forces to form an aligned row centered between the north and south magnetic poles of each magnetic lane.