DEVELOPMENT OF A MANUALLY CONTROLLED MAGNETIC SEPARATOR FOR SMALL-SCALE MINERAL PROCESSING

Author

I. Isa, Umar A, M. K. Umar


Abstract

 This study focused on the design, fabrication, and testing of a manually controlled magnetic separator for small scale mineral processing. The aim was to develop a simple, affordable, and locally fabricated machine that can assist artisanal and small scale miners in separating magnetic particles from non magnetic materials without depending on electricity. The machine was constructed using mild steel for the frame, stainless steel for the drum, steel shaft, bearings, and Neodymium Iron Boron magnets for magnetic attraction. The major components, including the magnetic drum, feed chute, shaft system, bearings, support frame, discharge outlet, and manual crank mechanism, were successfully fabricated and assembled into a functional prototype. The result showed that the separator operated smoothly, achieved effective separation of magnetic particles from non magnetic materials, and maintained stable performance during testing. The machine recorded a drum volume of 0.0424 m³, magnetic field strength of 1.11 × 10⁶ A/m, magnetic force of 1.4 × 10⁻³ N, required torque of 2.25 Nm, and feed rate capacity of 2 × 10⁻³ m³/min. Operational evaluation also showed satisfactory magnetic strength, smooth drum rotation, uniform feed control, efficient material discharge, good structural stability, durability, and ease of operation. The study concludes that the manually controlled magnetic separator is a practical, low cost, and effective alternative to imported magnetic separation systems for small scale mineral processing. Further testing with different mineral ores and in real mining environments is recommended to improve its performance, capacity, durability, and wider adoption among local miners.



Keywords

Magnetic Separator, Small Scale Mining, Mineral Processing, Magnetic Drum, Local Fabrication



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References


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