Magnetic lifters are specialized material-handling devices that use magnetic force to pick up, hold and move ferrous (iron-containing) loads without mechanical clamps, slings or hooks. They range from small hand-operated permanent lifters used to lift individual steel plates in workshops, to large electro-permanent or electromagnetic crane magnets used for moving bundles of plate, steel billets or scrap in heavy industry. Their core purpose is to simplify and speed up handling of steel components while improving operator safety and reducing damage to parts compared with mechanical gripping.
Historically, magnetic lifting began as simple electromagnets in mills and shipyards; advances in permanent magnet materials (rare-earth magnets) and electro-permanent designs have expanded capacities and made devices safer and more energy efficient. Today’s market blends decades-old industrial use with modern automation and safety integration.
Core functions and purpose
Product types & specifications
Magnetic lifters are typically classified by magnetic technology, capacity and mechanical design:
By technology
By capacity & design
Typical specs buyers compare: rated safe working load (SWL), factor of safety (FOS), minimum plate thickness for safe lift, pole configuration, activation method (manual/electric), and duty cycle.
Available variants and market models
Manufacturers offer model lines differentiated by capacity, pole layout (single vs multi-pole), on/off mechanism, and certifications (e.g., CE, ISO). Many suppliers provide bespoke designs for oversized plates, high-temperature operation, or integration with automation. Model capacities commonly span 100 kg, 500 kg, 1 t, 2 t, 5 t and upward with modular multi-magnet arrays for very large loads.
Applications & use cases
Primary industries
Common scenarios
Benefits & efficiencies
Magnetic Lifter Manufacturers | Magnetic Lifter Suppliers | Magnetic Lifter Exporters | Permanent Magnetic Lifter | Electro-Permanent Magnet Lifter | Lifting Magnet | Crane Electromagnet | Plate Lifting Magnet | Industrial Magnetic Lifters
FAQ's
Can Magnetic Lifters be used in high-temperature environments? Extreme temperatures can affect magnetic strength. Most magnetic lifters are suitable for temperatures up to a certain limit, generally around 80°C. High-temperature magnetic lifters are available for specialized applications.
How do you maintain a Magnetic Lifter? Maintenance involves keeping the lifter clean, ensuring the lever mechanism moves smoothly, checking for wear or damage, storing the device properly, and performing periodic inspections. Since they use permanent magnets, no electrical or coil maintenance is required.
Are Magnetic Lifters safe to use? Yes, magnetic lifters are safe when used correctly. They include safety locks, high-strength levers, and fail-safe designs that ensure magnets remain engaged during lifting. Operators must follow load limits, inspect surfaces, and ensure proper contact before lifting.
What are the common load capacities of Magnetic Lifters? Magnetic lifters are available in various capacities such as 100 kg, 300 kg, 500 kg, 600 kg, 1000 kg, 2000 kg, and even up to 5000 kg or more for heavy industrial handling. The actual lifting capacity depends on material thickness, surface condition, and contact area.
How does a Magnetic Lifter work?
Magnetic lifters function through a powerful internal magnetic system controlled by a manual lever. When the lever is switched to the “on” position, magnetic force is activated and holds the metal securely. Switching it “off” releases the load. Since it relies on permanent magnets, no electrical power is needed during lifting.
What is a Magnetic Lifter? A magnetic lifter is a lifting device that uses strong permanent magnets to securely hold and lift heavy ferrous metal loads without requiring electricity. It is widely used in industrial material handling applications for plates, blocks, pipes, and machined components.