Western Bio-Energy Ltd, based in Margam, South Wales, has enhanced its biomass power plant operations with the installation of a high-performance EMAX Overband Magnet from Bunting Magnetics. The air-cooled electromagnetic separator is now in operation, removing tramp ferrous metal from incoming woodchip used in power generation.

Western Bio-Energy operates a 15.8MWh biomass plant using a variety of wood sources, including brash chip, whole tree chip, RCF chip, and virgin wood. Due to the nature of the raw materials, contamination with ferrous metal such as nails, bolts, and tools is common. Such metal poses risks to plant equipment and fire safety.

Following an on-site assessment, Bunting supplied the EMAX140 model, which is installed inline over the head pulley of a 1.2-metre-wide conveyor transporting an average of 22 tonnes per hour of woodchip. The magnet lifts ferrous contaminants from the woodchip into a designated collection area via a self-cleaning belt running faster than the conveyor to enhance separation efficiency.

The Overband Magnet features a durable armoured belt with HDPE slats and stainless-steel fixings to extend operational life. The system efficiently separates a wide range of metal debris, helping protect downstream equipment and maintain safe, consistent plant operations.

Ben Clemett, Area Sales Manager at Bunting, noted that the installation has significantly reduced concerns about metal contamination at the site.

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EMAX140 Overband Magnet over the 1.2-metre-wide conveyor

Separated tramp ferrous metal