Susanne Nordman
Apr 14, 20223 min
Electromagnetic lift magnets are built to last many years and MagnaLift and Power-Grip models are no exception to this fact. One of the biggest selling points of purchasing an electromagnetic model versus a permanent model is their long lives and easy service ability. Many times, our technicians service magnets that are decades old and, once fully repaired and tested, continue performing well for their operators for several more decades.
To ensure that you are getting the maximum life out of your lift magnet, we make the following recommendations:
- Always maintain a clean and clear contact surface on your lift magnet. To achieve this, wipe the contact surface with a soft, clean cloth prior to energizing.
- Once energized, let the magnet sit for a few seconds to achieve maximum magnetism to produce the best hold on your material or part.
- MagnaLift and Power-Grip lifting magnets are below-the-hook devices that can be easily bumped and rammed when operators are not careful. Avoid these actions to not damage the case and body of the lift magnet including cracking of the welds.
- When finished with a load and the lift magnet is empty, gently set the magnet down in its resting position. Excess dropping and crashing can easily shorten the life of a lift magnet.
- Regarding extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, avoid them at all costs for your lift magnet. While cooling your lift magnet with water may sound like a good idea, do not use water to maintain a cooler temperature of lift magnets. They should be kept as dry as possible to extend their life and operate safely.
- Battery-operated lift magnets will power similarly as an automobile because both use the same type batteries. If you are concerned about your vehicle battery starting or dying due to extreme temperatures, your battery-operated lift magnet may experience the same problems.
- Electromagnetism is affected by extreme temperatures so your lift magnet’s magnetism will be directly affected in extreme heat or cold.
- If your parts or material is warm, monitor the load carefully and have reserve magnets nearby to switch to if yours should become overheated.
- When magnets are stored on the ground, they will absorb natural moisture from the earth. Mixing moisture and electromagnetism is not good. To avoid this problem, store your lift magnet on blocks low to the ground but not touching.
- Always operate your MagnaLift and Power-Grip lifting magnet while the ammeter is in the green. If it registers in the red zone, do not lift, and charge your unit fully before attempting another lift.
- When replacing parts on your lift magnet, always use new, factory direct parts. Never purchase used parts or components on auctions or from used machinery agents.
- Train your operators in safely using lift magnets for your specific industry. Always abide by industry standards.
- Use caution when handling the battery of your lift magnet. Read all battery manufacturer’s instructions prior to handling.
- Batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated area and never with the power pack lid down. Battery gases are explosive.
- Although there is an automatic cutoff in the charger to prevent over charging and boiling the batteries, it is NOT recommended to leave the charger on for periods exceeding 24 hours for MagnaLift and Power-Grip models.
- Operators should visually inspect the lift magnet before each lift.
- Consider annual factory lift magnet certifications to keep your in good working order. Check here for details on these services provided by Obsidian Manufacturing Industries, Inc.
When the time comes to service or repair your MagnaLift or Power-Grip lift magnet, we offer retrofit, rebuilding, and repair services, and sell spare parts direct. Contact our sales team today for pricing and lead times for repair services and MagnaLift and Power-Grip lift magnet spare parts.