7 Best Wet Magnetic Separator for Iron Ore 2026

In the highly competitive field of mineral processing, selecting the right equipment is not merely an operational choice—it is a financial imperative. As we move into 2026, the demand for high-grade iron ore concentrates continues to rise, pushing beneficiation plants to adopt more efficient and precise separation technologies. From our extensive experience in the field, the wet magnetic separator remains the cornerstone of iron ore processing, particularly for upgrading fines and recovering weakly magnetic minerals like hematite and limonite.

The market has evolved significantly. Modern separators now offer higher magnetic field strengths, intelligent control systems, and energy-saving designs that were unavailable just a decade ago. We have evaluated the top equipment available globally to bring you this definitive guide on the best wet magnetic separators for iron ore.

1. Oromineral Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separator

From our professional assessment, the Oromineral WHIMS-002 stands out as a top-tier solution for processing weakly magnetic iron ores such as hematite and martite. ORO Mineral has engineered this machine with a focus on customizable magnetic field strengths, allowing operators to fine-tune the separation process based on specific ore mineralogy.

2. Metso HGMS High Gradient Magnetic Separator

Metso continues to be a dominant force in the mining sector. Their HGMS (High Gradient Magnetic Separator) is distinct from standard WHIMS due to its advanced matrix design and solenoid coil configuration. We find this machine exceptionally capable of recovering extremely fine paramagnetic particles that other separators miss.

Why We Recommend It

The Metso HGMS utilizes a unique magnetization direction parallel to the pulp flow, which enhances the capture of fines while reducing the risk of matrix blockage. From our experience, the low wear rate of the matrix—often lasting 8 to 10 years—makes this a cost-effective choice for long-term operations.

• Key Feature: Flushing sequence occurs outside the magnetic zone, improving cleaning efficiency.
• Application: Ideal for hematite and ilmenite fines recovery.
• Durability: Heavy-duty return frame prevents magnetic saturation.

3. SLon Vertical Ring Pulsating High Gradient Magnetic Separator

The SLon VPHGMS is arguably the industry standard for processing fine, weakly magnetic minerals. Its vertical ring design combined with a pulsating mechanism addresses the primary weakness of high-intensity separators: clogging. By agitating the slurry vertically, the SLon separator keeps the particle bed loose, ensuring high efficiency.

Operational Advantages

In our field tests, the SLon separator consistently delivers high concentration ratios. The pulsating action prevents mechanical entrapment of gangue minerals, resulting in a cleaner concentrate. With background field intensities reaching up to 1.8 Tesla, it effectively recovers fine hematite that would otherwise be lost to tailings.

• Mechanism: Vertical rotation + Pulsating slurry.
• Cooling: Water cooling system ensures stable magnetic field generation.
• Capacity: Units available from lab scale up to massive 3500mm ring diameters.

4. Eriez Wet Drum Magnetic Separator

For magnetite recovery, Eriez remains the benchmark. Their Wet Drum Separators are engineered for the continuous recovery of magnetite or ferrosilicon in heavy media operations and the concentration of ferrous ores. Unlike the high-intensity separators listed above, this is a Low Intensity Magnetic Separator (LIMS), but it is the best in its class.

Industry-Leading Recovery

We recommend Eriez drums for their self-leveling tank design and the “Interpole” magnetic element, which uses auxiliary poles to create a highly agitated field. This agitation releases entrapped non-magnetic particles, ensuring a high-grade concentrate. With recovery rates frequently exceeding 99.9%, it is an essential component in any magnetite processing circuit.

• Magnetic Element: 950 Gauss Interpole (Standard) or Rare Earth options.
• Construction: 304 Stainless steel tank and drum shell.
• Maintenance: Minimal wear due to stationary magnet design.

5. LONGi LGS Vertical Ring Magnetic Separator

LONGi Magnet has established itself as a major player with the LGS series. Similar to the SLon, this machine uses a vertical ring and pulsation, but LONGi has focused heavily on energy efficiency and coil cooling technology. It is a robust solution for purifying non-metallic minerals and concentrating weak magnetic iron ores.

Efficiency and Design

The LGS series features an optimized magnetic circuit that reduces power consumption while maintaining a high gradient. From our perspective, its compact design allows for easier retrofitting into existing plants. The automated control systems allow for real-time adjustments to pulsation frequency and ring speed, adapting to fluctuations in feed grade.

6. Shandong Huate LHGC Vertical Ring Separator

Shandong Huate offers the LHGC series, which competes directly with top-tier global brands. Huate has integrated intelligent sensing technology into their separators, allowing for smart operation. This machine is widely used for hematite, limonite, and siderite separation.

Smart Processing

What sets the LHGC apart is its advanced oil-water composite cooling system, which ensures the coil remains cool even under high-load continuous operation. We have observed that stable coil temperature is crucial for maintaining constant magnetic field strength, preventing the “thermal fade” that can reduce recovery rates during long shifts.

7. Multotec Permax Wet Drum Magnetic Separator

Rounding out our list is the Multotec Permax. This separator is specifically designed for dense media separation (DMS) plants and iron ore concentration. Multotec focuses on hydraulic efficiency, utilizing a specially designed counter-rotation tank to maximize the interaction between the slurry and the magnetic field.

High Volume Performance

The Permax is capable of handling high volume flow rates (up to 160 m³/hr per meter drum width). We recommend this unit for plants prioritizing throughput and magnetic media recovery. Its design minimizes dead zones in the tank, ensuring that every particle is subjected to the magnetic field.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Wet Magnetic Separator

Selecting the correct wet magnetic separator for iron ore depends entirely on the mineralogy of your ore body. Here are the critical factors we analyze when consulting for beneficiation plants:

1. Mineralogy and Magnetic Susceptibility

Magnetite (Strongly Magnetic): You do not need high intensity. A Low Intensity Magnetic Separator (LIMS) like the Eriez Wet Drum or Multotec Permax is the correct choice. Using a high-intensity separator here would be a waste of energy and capital.

Hematite/Limonite (Weakly Magnetic): You require a High Intensity Magnetic Separator (WHIMS or HGMS) like the Oromineral, SLon, or Metso HGMS. These generate fields of 1.0 Tesla or higher to capture these minerals.

2. Particle Size

For coarse particles (>3mm), drum separators are generally preferred to prevent blockage. For fine particles (<100 microns), vertical ring pulsating separators (SLon, LONGi) are superior because the pulsation prevents the fine matrix from clogging.

3. Cooling System

High-intensity separators generate significant heat in their coils. Look for efficient cooling systems (water or oil-water composite). Inefficient cooling leads to resistance buildup in the coil, causing the magnetic field strength to drop over time.

Summary Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LIMS and WHIMS?

LIMS (Low Intensity Magnetic Separators) typically operate below 0.3 Tesla and are used for ferromagnetic minerals like magnetite. WHIMS (Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separators) operate above 1.0 Tesla and are used for paramagnetic minerals like hematite and limonite.

Why is pulsation important in wet magnetic separation?

Pulsation agitates the slurry mixture within the separation zone. This mechanical action breaks up clusters of particles, allowing non-magnetic waste (gangue) to be washed away while magnetic particles are retained. It significantly improves the grade of the concentrate.

Can I process dry iron ore with these machines?

No. These are wet magnetic separators requiring the ore to be in a slurry form (mixed with water). For dry ore, you would need dry magnetic separators, which operate on different principles and are generally used for coarser material.

References

1. Svoboda, J. (2004). Magnetic Techniques for the Treatment of Materials. Kluwer Academic Publishers.
2. Wills, B. A., & Finch, J. (2015). Wills’ Mineral Processing Technology. Butterworth-Heinemann.