Laboratory Separators

Our laboratory magnetic separator systems are built for researchers, geologists, mineralogists, and quality-control teams who need to separate materials according to their magnetic properties. S. G. Frantz Laboratory Separators use the same electromagnet and support system across the product line, so one unit can be converted to another when your work calls for a different type of separation.

That shared system can be useful for laboratories that need more than one separation method without purchasing a completely separate piece of equipment for every application. These magnetic separators provide options for working with dry materials — paramagnetic and diamagnetic materials, and liquid suspensions.

The L-1 Isodynamic® and LB-1 Magnetic Barrier are designed to separate dry materials according to magnetic susceptibility rather than simple magnetic attraction. This allows researchers to work with paramagnetic and diamagnetic properties that conventional magnetic separators cannot take advantage of. The L-1CN Canister Separator is designed for liquid suspensions of fine particles instead.

The L-1 Isodynamic® Laboratory Separator has been used in geological laboratories for more than 90 years. The first unit was built in 1935 and is still in service.

The L-1 separates dry granular materials according to magnetic susceptibility. As material travels between two contoured pole pieces, more strongly paramagnetic particles are pulled toward the narrower side of the gap and directed into a separate container.

We offer two operating modes so you can adjust the separator to the material and separation you need:

• Inclined Chute: Provides a slower feed rate for more sensitive separation.
• Vertical/Free-Fall: Provides faster processing of free-flowing sands at rates of up to 20 lbs. per hour.

The L-1 produces a field strength of approximately 20 kilogauss at 1.8 amps. S. G. Frantz L-1 laboratory magnetic separator systems can be used for a range of laboratory applications, including: 

• Geology and Mineralogy: Classify samples according to magnetic susceptibility.
• Quality Assurance: Evaluate and qualify material composition.
• Material Processing: Verify ferromagnetic properties when using the LFC-3 accessory.

The LB-1 Magnetic Barrier Laboratory Separator provides more than 3.5 times the separating force of the L-1. It also gives you the ability to see the separation taking place, verifying particle interactions. The LB-1 also offers separate feed and chute control, giving you independent control over material flow and separation.

The U.S. Geological Survey has used the LB-1 since 1986, and the Geological Survey of Canada has used Barrier Separators in geochronology research. A Barrier Separator was also used in research that helped identify a rock approximately 100 million years older than any previously known.

The LB-1 can handle diamagnetic separations as well as paramagnetic materials. Applications include high-purity ground quartz, synthetic and natural diamond separation, and quality assurance work.

If you already have an Isodynamic® Separator, we can convert it to a Barrier Separator with a conversion kit. The conversion requires minimal technical skill, giving your laboratory another separation option without replacing the entire system.

The L-1CN Canister Separator is designed for a different type of laboratory work. It is a bench-top, high-gradient separator for liquid suspensions containing fine particles, including nanoparticles.

During operation, the liquid suspension passes through a matrix made from fine stainless steel wool. Ferromagnetic and paramagnetic particles are captured on the matrix while the magnetic field is active. Once the field is switched off, the captured particles can be flushed from the matrix.

The L-1CN provides a variable field strength of approximately 15,500 to 16,000 gauss.

Universities and companies use the L-1CN for work involving nanoparticles, including applications involving biological systems. The unit can also be converted from an L-1 or LB-1, giving laboratories flexibility as their research needs change.

The three S. G. Frantz laboratory separator models have different physical dimensions and current requirements.

We offer several accessories to support operation of our laboratory separator systems. Depending on the model, these controls can help with field management, material feeding, and power regulation.

• LFC-3 Low-Field Control: The LFC-3 Low-Field Control reverses current to clear residual magnetism and senses when the magnetic field is near zero. It can also pulse current from about 3 to 30 Hz to help break chains of ferromagnetic particles. The LFC-3 is purchased with most L-1 and LB-1 sales.
• Vibrator Control: The Vibrator Control is required for L-1 and LB-1 operation. It controls the feed and chute vibration during material processing.
• Regulated Power Supply: Our Regulated Power Supply is required for all three laboratory separator models. It provides 150V, 0 to 4A DC for the equipment.

The right laboratory magnetic separator depends on the material you are working with and how you need to separate it. The L-1 Isodynamic® is a long-established choice for dry mineral samples and general magnetic susceptibility work. The LB-1 Magnetic Barrier provides greater separating force, lets you observe the separation process, and offers separate feed and chute control for independent adjustment of material flow. For liquid suspensions containing fine particles or nanoparticles, the L-1CN provides high-gradient separation at the bench scale.

Because our laboratory magnetic separators share a common electromagnet and support system, you also have the option of converting between models as your research requirements change.

Choosing laboratory separation equipment starts with understanding the material you need to process and the type of separation you want to achieve. Our team can help you learn more about the L-1 Isodynamic®, LB-1 Magnetic Barrier, and L-1CN Canister Separator and determine which option makes sense for your work.

Contact S. G. Frantz Co., Inc. to learn more about our laboratory magnetic separator options, magnetic separators, electromagnetic separators, and permanent magnet separators.