Characterization of magnetohydrostatic axial separation system

The use of the magnetohydrostatic axial separation system for separation and characterization of particulates is considered. It is shown that one reference curve determined with a given paramagnetic fluid at a given current level is sufficient for the calculation and construction of a set of calibration curves for different fluids and current levels. In cases where a solution of the magnetic field is available, calculation of reference curves are straightforward. In other cases they must be determined experimentally. Procedures for calculations of the density and susceptibility of particles by use of the calibration curves are outlined, and expected axial separation patterns of a mixture of particles are evaluated. It is shown that lower resolution is associated with high levitational forces. Increase of resolution may be obtained at higher current levels or by smaller rate of tapering of the poles in the region of small air gap.