Magnetic Properties of Ceramic Minerals – Part 3

AKSA MAGNET
Jan 15
3 min read

In our previous blog posts, we addressed the problems caused by magnetic particle contamination in ceramic production, examined the different magnetic properties of minerals, and evaluated in detail the consequences that magnetic particle contamination can cause in ceramics. In this article, we will introduce various magnetic separation equipment used in ceramic processing operations and explain how this equipment combats problems caused by magnetic particles.

Magnetic Separation of Ceramic Minerals

To maximize the efficiency of the magnetic separation process, it is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the magnetic properties of the minerals present in the ceramic raw materials being processed. There are many magnetic separators on the market with different designs, each using different types and strengths of magnetic fields to achieve separation. Even within a single mineral processing line, multiple types of magnetic separators may be used.

Magnetic Separation Process of Ceramic Minerals

Ceramic raw materials are processed using high-intensity magnetic separators that are widely used in ceramic body preparation and glazing processes. These separators are designed to be suitable for both dry and wet processes. Many ceramic raw materials, such as quartz sand, zircon, and feldspar, are processed in dry conditions. Since higher-purity materials provide greater revenue to manufacturers, companies operating in the ceramic industry generally clean their own reserves using magnetic separation methods.

During this process, high-intensity magnetic separators effectively remove both free iron and magnetic minerals from the system. The equipment used includes permanent magnetic designs such as the Roll Magnetic Separator and the Rare Earth Drum Magnetic Separator. In addition, electromagnetic options such as the Dry Electromagnetic Filter are also available. Electromagnetic designs are generally more suitable for raw materials processed at high temperatures and provide more efficient results, especially for materials processed immediately after the drying stage.

Roll Magnetic Separator

During ceramic production, especially in spray drying processes, contamination of raw materials with free iron is quite common. To prevent and eliminate this type of contamination, Rare Earth Roll Magnetic Separators and Dry Drum Magnetic Separators are used.

Dry Drum Magnetic Separator (Drum Magnetic Separator)

After ceramic raw materials are ground and converted into glaze, slip, and ceramic body, the magnetic separation process is applied once again. At this stage, iron particles that were previously trapped within the material during grinding may be released. In addition, new free iron particles may enter the system during screening, pumping, and conveying operations.

During the final quality control stage, neodymium magnets or liquid magnetic traps equipped with neodymium magnets are positioned at or near the glazing stations to ensure that no visible contamination occurs during the glazing process. The magnetic separators installed at these points capture and remove magnetic particles that may enter the environment during the transfer of the glaze to the station, thereby improving the quality of the final product.

Mineral Reserves and the Importance of Magnetic Separation

In ceramic production, it is of great importance to accurately analyze the magnetic susceptibility (magnetic sensitivity) of minerals. As traditional ceramic raw materials are gradually being depleted, it is inevitable that magnetic separation becomes critical in the process of extracting minerals from more complex and lower-grade deposits.

The continuous demand for white and pattern-free ceramics forces ceramic manufacturers and raw material suppliers to constantly seek new solutions to completely remove magnetic minerals and free iron from raw materials.

Reducing Production Defects Through Optimal Magnetic Separation

A detailed understanding of all stages of the ceramic production process is of great importance for determining the most suitable magnetic separation equipment. Aksa Magnet experts are pleased to provide customized consultancy to help you identify the most appropriate magnetic separation solutions for your production line.

For more information about magnetic separators for the ceramic industry, please contact Aksa Magnet.