Our S. G. Frantz Series PQ permanent magnetic separator removes fine ferrous particles without requiring electrical power. Each separator uses a stack of stainless steel grids magnetized by permanent magnets. As material moves through the grids, the stream is divided and redirected across hundreds or thousands of feet of grid edges. This gives ferrous particles repeated opportunities to move into the magnetic field and become captured.
Series PQ magnetic separators are rated to 100 psi and have a low pressure drop. In many applications, this allows the separator to be installed on the suction side of a pump. Placing the separator ahead of the pump can help keep abrasive particles from reaching the pump and causing wear.
Because permanent magnets provide the magnetic field continuously, our Series PQ permanent magnetic separator is a practical choice when you need ongoing ferrous particle removal without adding electrical equipment to the system.
Where Series PQ Separators Can Help
We use Series PQ magnetic separators in applications where fine iron and steel particles can affect equipment, fluids, or the finished product. Common applications include:
- Heavy Equipment: Remove abrasive wear particles from engines and oil-lubricated machinery.
- Hydraulic Systems: Capture rust, scale, and fine metal wear particles to help protect pumps and valves.
- Coolant Systems: Remove fine metal particles that may remain suspended instead of settling in the sump. Cleaner coolant can help improve surface finish and extend tool life.
- Volatile Liquids: Separate ferrous particles from fuels, paints, solvents, hydrocarbons, and other liquids where explosion risks may be a concern.
- Meters, Controls, and Test Stands: Capture particles that are too small for conventional edge-type filters or strainers.
- Boiler and Steam Systems: Help reduce rust and scale in the system.
- Filtration Systems: Remove ferrous particles before they reach conventional filters, helping extend filter service life.
What Makes Series PQ Different?
S. G. Frantz designed the Series PQ to provide continuous separation with a straightforward design. There are no moving parts to operate, and no electrical connection is needed to create the magnetic field.
- Fine Particle Removal: The Series PQ is designed to capture very fine iron and steel particles, including rust and scale that can remain suspended in a fluid.
- No Moving Parts: The permanent magnet design has no moving mechanical components. The grid assemblies are built for long-term use and are highly durable under normal operating conditions.
- Full-Flow Operation: Our Series PQ magnetic separators can be installed directly in the main flow line rather than requiring a bypass. The low pressure drop also makes them suitable for applications where maintaining flow is important.
- Low Pressure Drop: The separator allows material to pass through the grid assembly without the pressure loss associated with some conventional filtration methods. This is one reason Series PQ units can often be installed on the suction side of a pump.
- Easy Cleaning: Cleaning does not require complicated procedures. Once the grid stack is removed from the permanent magnets, it demagnetizes, allowing the captured material to be removed from the grids.
Choose the Series PQ Model for Your Flow Rate
- S. G. Frantz offers four Series PQ models to accommodate different flow requirements. Each permanent magnetic separator is available in a model suited to specific flow requirements.
| Model | PQ-3 | PQ-4 | PQ-5 | PQ-6 |
| Pipe Connection | 1″ | 1-1/2″ | 2″ | 3″ flange |
| Maximum Pressure | 100 psi | 100 psi | 100 psi | 100 psi |
| Capacity, Oil | 20 GPM | 40 GPM | 90 GPM | 200 GPM |
For coolant applications, we recommend using a separator one or two sizes larger than the oil rating indicates. The additional capacity provides more room for chips and other material collected during operation.
Keeping Your Separator Clean
Regular cleaning helps the Series PQ continue to perform as intended. Our separators are designed to open easily, and the grid stack demagnetizes when it is removed from the permanent magnets.
The cleaning schedule depends on the application. For lubrication systems operating regularly, cleaning is generally recommended weekly to monthly. Hydraulic systems may require cleaning every 1 to 6 months. For coolant filtration in machining operations, we recommend cleaning at least once during each 8-hour shift.
New machinery should also be cleaned after the initial run-in period. New equipment can produce a higher amount of wear particles during this period, and removing those particles helps keep the separator ready for continued operation.
Permanent Magnet Separation From S. G. Frantz
If you need continuous removal of fine ferrous particles without electrical power, our Series PQ magnetic separators provide a simple and reliable approach. The permanent magnet design, full-flow operation, low pressure drop, and easy cleaning make these separators useful across lubrication, hydraulic, coolant, filtration, and other fluid systems.
Contact S. G. Frantz Co., Inc. to discuss your application and let our team help you select the right Series PQ model for your flow rate and operating conditions.