Magnetic Products, Inc. (MPI), industry-leading manufacturer of industrial magnets, material handling and electronic inspection systems, introduced the patented Intell-I-Mag®, a revolutionary step in magnetic separation innovation and factory automation designed for the food production and other industries. Intell-I-Mag is the first intelligent magnet with self-monitoring of ferrous metal saturation in real time, providing operators key information to help improve the cleaning and maintenance of the magnetic separators needed to maintain peak magnet performance during production.
Intell-I-Mag delivers an innovative solution for manufacturing facilities impacted by industry-wide labor shortages and cost increases. It also helps reduce challenges due to equipment failures, inadequate magnet cleaning intervals or inaccessible magnetic separation equipment. Data-driven feedback on cleaning cycles and magnet performance increases production line “up time” and promotes peak performance of magnetic separators, reducing the risk of a metal event.
“Plant operators need to be aware of metal saturation levels at all times,” states Keith Rhodes, MPI founder, CEO and Intell-I-Mag inventor. “Intell-I-Mag is the first magnet with smart technology that talks to you. Its magnetic separator detects discrepancies with metal buildup and alerts staff before an incident can occur.” MPI’s patented new technology aligns with Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things trends, using sensors and data collection to improve analysis of magnetic separator performance, including magnet saturation, cleaning alerts, temperature monitoring, cleaning cycles and position location. Intell-I-Mag’s sensors monitor tramp metal saturation levels and once the magnet reaches the designated level, it alerts plant personnel of required cleaning or the engagement of automated self-cleaning processes. Alert limits can be set by the designated personnel responsible for magnet system performance and password protected.
With Intell-I-Mag’s real time feedback on separator performance, operators can also establish a higher level of metal control and create a stronger quality management plan for programs such as HACCP, ISO, BRC, IFS and SQF. Using the innovative new technology, vendors can be monitored in real time during materials unloading and metal events detected earlier to reduce damage. In addition, finishing separators prior to packaging allows separators to operate at peak performance, while improving protections from a potential recall due to metal. Ensuring separators are operating at peak performance also increases the facilities’ ability to capture lightly ferrous metal, such as work hardened stainless steel. Finally, Intell-I-Mag improves customer reporting with the addition of performance data on the magnetic separator.
The Intell-I-Mag intelligent magnet controller is available exclusively on MPI magnetic separators. Available models include Plate Magnets, Drawer Magnets, Chute Magnets, Liquid Magnets and Pneumatic Magnets. Controllers are rated for appropriate installation environments, including washdown and hazardous locations. Contact MPI at 248.887.5600 or info@mpimagnet.com to learn more.
About MPI | Magnetic Products, Inc.:
Based in Metro-Detroit Michigan, MPI designs, manufactures and services industrial magnets, material handling and electronic inspection systems. MPI products are designed to be complete metal and foreign contamination control solutions for the food production and related industries. MPI’s equipment and service programs help its customers minimize downtime and protect brand integrity through offering safe and reliable equipment. MPI leads the industry by continuously engineering inventive products, advancing customer education through significant investments in research and development, and proactive product training. All MPI equipment is backed by its best-in-class service programs, customer service team, and support team. MPI interacts closely with its customers and expands its offerings to meet the changes of a dynamic and ever-changing marketplace. For more information visit www.mpimagnet.com.