Lifting
Industrial Heavy-Lifting Magnetic Devices
Combining the patented Magswitch lifting magnet technology with plate handling systems, Heavy Lifting Solutions has the answers for all your plate lifter applications. From manual systems to fully integrated robotic lifting device systems, Magswitch has a full range of lifting technology solutions.
Our application engineers will analyze your needs and help you find the right magnetic lifter solutions. We replace inefficient, high-maintenance electromagnetic lifters and vacuum lifters delivering ROIs as low as 12 months, reducing injury risk and improving capital return on expensive cutting equipment. From small plate applications (4’x8’, 5’x10’ & 6’x12’) to large (8’ to 10‘ x 15’ to 60’) and thin material as low as 12 gauge, we will custom design a solution! Check out our Heavy Lifting Solutions Catalog for more info!
Our Process
- Initial Application Review
- Design Engineering (including packaging)
- ROI Analysis
- Product Testing
- Manufacturing and Delivery
- Marketing and Customer Service
Magnetic Lifting Products
EPM Telescopic Beam
For customers that need to lift various sheet dimensions, this Magswitch Lift System offers adjustability based on the length of the plate being handled.
EPM Fixed Spreader Beam
Designed to lift your maximum plate size, the Magswitch SPM Fixed Spreader Beam can be configured with any number of cross members to fit your lifting needs.
Parts/Cut Out Handling
This Magswitch Lift System is designed to lift your maximum plate size for loading, lift your part, and cut it out after processing.
Cordless Electric System
When drop-down or wall power is unavailable, the cordless electric system is the perfect solution and can be used via overhead cranes, boom trucks, and forklifts.
Slab/Billet Handling
When lifting profiles and bundles, safety and efficiency are key. The Profile and Bundle lift system is custom designed to fit your specific needs.
Mag-Kit (Retro Fit)
For the customer seeking an economical solution, the Mag-Kit allows the customer to mount the Magswitch magnets and controls to an existing spreader beam.
Featured Videos
Customer Success Stories
Introducing the Smart Electrically Actuated Lifter
Magswitch is excited to introduce the electrically actuated lifter designed with safety in mind. The ELAY series features smart tool technology that will change the way how lifting steel is done.
Ergonomic Press Brake Lifting Solution
The final result was a lifting frame that utilized Magswitch’s shallow field patented technology to load and unload the snow plows safely and effectively into the press brake.
The Magswitch Advantage
Safety
We consider safety in everything we do. Safety is crucial to our products, the fewer hands on the job means a safer workplace. Easy actuation, lighter lifting, stability control, and lift-to-shear capabilities all tie back to an emphasis on safety.
Our products are designed to be ‘fail safe’ since there is no need for any power during a lift. With a positive indication of the magnetic circuit, the operator can confidently perform knowing the material is fully attached. Magswitch offers Electric, Pneumatic, or Manual for ‘on-off’ actuation.
Performance
Magswitch technology applies maximum hold force at shallow depths, and thin material, enabling consistent stronghold force on thin and thick magnetic material. Our products are customer serviceable, 1/3rd the magnet weight of some competitors, outlast, and are easier to operate than old technology competitors.
Flexibility
Magswitch products have flexible options to handle your lifting needs & adapt to odd or round shapes.
Downtime
Downtime is eliminated with Magswitch, unlike traditional steel lifting systems. With a 100% duty cycle, no more standing or waiting around.
Cost Savings
Electromagnetic and vacuum lifting systems are costly in the long term regarding energy and maintenance costs. Magswitch ‘Greentech’ technology will offer you significant savings in energy and repairs while increasing productivity.
Custom Solutions
In addition to groundbreaking products, Magswitch offers the expertise and resources to assist customers with their design and application challenges. To achieve the best performance for contact one of our knowledgeable sales representatives for advice on fixtures, pole shoes, guarding, and magnet designs.
If you need more than a design, we’ve got you covered at a fraction of the cost of a machine shop. Magswitch can help you customize a range of components to expand the usability of your tool.
Magswitch also offers Finite Element Analysis (MFEA), a magnetic analysis to confirm holding force and validate pole shoe designs. Magswitch prides itself on having a team of engineers ready to handle any application. Many factors determine the performance of a magnet, and all should be accounted for before selecting your tool.
Common Questions
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about Magswitch electro permanent magnet technology.
Safety Will electro permanent magnets demagnetize without electricity?
No. Electro permanent magnets maintain their magnetization without continuous electricity. Unlike traditional electromagnets that require constant power to hold a load, the magnetic state is locked in place and does not change when power is removed.
Safety Do electro permanent magnets need backup batteries?
No. Because electro permanent magnets maintain their magnetization without power, there is no need for battery backup systems. A load held by an EPM will remain secure even in the event of a complete power failure — making them inherently safer than electromagnets for lifting applications.
Applications What are the main applications of electro permanent magnets?
Magswitch electro permanent magnets are purpose-built for demanding industrial environments. Key application areas include:
- Lifting — heavy plate, structural steel, and workpiece handling
- End of arm tooling — robotic grippers and material transfer
- Quick change systems — rapid die and mold changeover
- Chucks — workholding for machining and fabrication
Efficiency Do electro permanent magnets use a lot of electricity?
No. Electro permanent magnets are highly energy efficient. They consume electricity only during the brief switching pulse — when turning on or off — not while holding a load. This makes them 95% more energy efficient than traditional electromagnets, which draw continuous power to maintain grip.
Safety Are electro permanent magnets safe?
Yes. Electro permanent magnets provide a constant and predictable magnetic force throughout their operational life. Their safety advantages include:
- No power required to maintain hold — loads remain secure during outages
- No battery backup needed — eliminating a potential failure point
- Consistent, predictable force — no variation due to electrical fluctuations
Durability How long do electro permanent magnets last?
Electro permanent magnets have an exceptionally long operational lifespan. Magswitch uses high-quality materials including neodymium and samarium cobalt — both known for extreme durability.
As a reference point, standard neodymium magnets lose approximately 5% of their magnetism over 100 years, translating to just 0.05% annual degradation. Properly maintained electro permanent magnet systems can last for decades with no significant loss of performance.
Temperature Can electro permanent magnets be used for high temperature applications?
Yes. The right magnet material can be selected to match your operating temperature. Standard neodymium (NdFeB) magnets maintain magnetism up to 80°C (176°F), while specialty grades extend that range significantly.
| Material / Grade | Max Operating Temp | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NdFeB Standard | 80°C / 176°F | Most common grade for standard environments |
| NdFeB "M" grade | 100°C / 212°F | Elevated temperature applications |
| NdFeB "H" grade | 120°C / 248°F | High heat environments |
| NdFeB "SH" grade | 150°C / 302°F | Super high heat |
| NdFeB "UH" grade | 180°C / 356°F | Ultra high heat |
| NdFeB "EH" grade | 200°C / 392°F | Extreme heat grade |
| NdFeB "TH" grade | 220°C / 428°F | Top-tier NdFeB performance |
| Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) | 350°C / 662°F | Highly resistant to thermal demagnetization |
| Alnico | 540°C / 1,004°F | Highest temperature rating — continuous duty |
Magswitch can help select the right material grade for your specific temperature and performance requirements. Contact our engineering team for application guidance.
Have a question not covered here?
Our engineering team specializes in electro permanent magnet applications for heavy lifting, automation, and tooling. Get in touch for application-specific guidance.