GB2459289A

GB2459289A - Magnetic filtration

Info

Publication number: GB2459289A
Application number: GB0807024A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Keith Newman
Original assignee: Eclipse Magnetics Ltd
Current assignee: Eclipse Magnetics Ltd
Priority date: 2008-04-17
Filing date: 2008-04-17
Publication date: 2009-10-21
Anticipated expiration: 2028-04-17
Also published as: GB0807024D0; GB2459289B

Abstract

A magnetic filtration apparatus and a method configured to separate contaminant ferrous material from a fluid. The apparatus comprises a plurality of filter cartridges 100, each cartridge comprising a magnet 101, a fluid inlet 104 and a fluid outlet 128. The apparatus further comprises a carousel assembly 105 mounting each filter cartridge and configured to move the cartridges in a cyclical manner between operative filtration positions and at least one cleaning position. A contaminant removal means is provided at the cleaning position and is configured to dislodge deposited ferrous material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the magnet as part of the filtration cycle. The apparatus is preferably automated and controlled using a PC or programmable logic circuit (PLC).

Description

MAGNETIC FILTRATION APPARATUS

The present invention relates to magnetic filtration apparatus configured to separate contaminant material from a fluid.

Industrial applications that utilise a working fluid to provide cooling, lubrication or to remove wear debris from machine processing tools and products, employ fluid filtration devices to extract particulate matter from the fluid. The cleaned fluid may then be re-circulated for further use or more readily disposed of due to the removal of the particulate matter. Without filtration devices, the working fluid would quickly become heavily contaminated resulting in machine wear and/or failure. Also, in most territories, the filtering and cleaning of industrial fluid waste is required prior to discarding.

A number of magnetic based filtration devices have been proposed, configured to filter magnetic particles from fluids in particular, liquids. Such units may be employed in an on-line capacity, forming part of the fluid circuit during operation of the machinery or production line, or in an off-line state in which the working fluid is diverted or isolated from the production line when inoperative to provide the required filtration.

GB 1192870, US 2007/0090055 and WO 2005/06 1390 disclose cartridge based magnetic separators. Fluid, flowing through the cartridge passes over a magnet which entraps the ferrous particles within its magnetic field. Clean, filtered liquid then flows out of the cartridge. * ** * * *

* 25 Whilst such magnetic filtration devices are advantageous over more conventional paper or * .** * fabric based filters, cleaning of the magnets to remove deposited ferrous material remains a * : necessity. Typically, and particularly where employed in an on-line capacity, the user is required to terminate fluid flow through the filter, extract the magnet and manually wipe the deposited material from the magnet surface before the filter can be reinstalled within the fluid line. This manual cleaning of the filter cartridges is both labour and time intensive resulting in increased cost and manufacture or running time. Additionally, where manual intervention is required, there exists the risk that the appropriate cleaning of the filter will not be undertaken at the required time leading to fluid contamination and/or damage due to flow restriction through the filter.

What is required therefore is working fluid filtration apparatus that solves the above problems.

The inventors provide filtration apparatus for operation on-line, as part of a working fluid circuit, or off-line with the contaminated fluid isolated or diverted from the main working fluid circuit. The present invention provides for the automated cleaning of magnets forming part of an array of magnetic filter cartridges obviating the need for manual intervention and minimising down-time' as magnet cleaning is undertaken. The present invention achieves this via an array of magnets attached to a carousel assembly configured to move the magnets between working, filtration positions and at least one cleaning position in which deposited particulate matter is dislodged from entrapment by the

magnetic field created by the magnet.

By removing the ferrous particulates from the magnet's surface or the surface of a sheath containing the magnet(s), as the magnets are moved between adjacent cartridges in a carousel manner, the cleaning operation is provided simultaneously to effectively reduce the cleaning time.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided magnetic filtration apparatus to separate contaminant material from a fluid, said apparatus comprising: a plurality of filter cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least one magnet, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, wherein the magnet is positioned such that a magnetic field generated by the magnet is created in the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet;

S

a carousel assembly configured to move the magnets between a filtration position to filter * contaminant material from the fluid and a cleaning position; and a contaminant removal means to dislodge the contaminant material from entrapment by the magnetic field created *...S.

by the at least one magnet in the cleaning position.

The contaminant removal means is provided at the cleaning position and is configured to dislodge deposited ferrous material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the magnet as part of the filtration cycle. The removal means may comprise a mechanical scraper being a static body or having movable components to contact the outer surface of the magnet or magnetic core as at least one of the magnetlmagnetic core and scraper are moved relative to one another. Alternatively the scraper may comprise means to generate a fluid current over the magnet/magnetic core to dislodge the contaminant material from the magnet field. In particular the removal means may comprise means to generate an air current or liquid stream at the cleaning position.

The carousel assembly comprises carousel actuation means to extract the magnets from the cartridges prior to moving the magnets between filtration positions and at least one cleaning position. The carousel assembly is configured to move a magnet from a first filtration position within a first cartridge to a second filtration position within a second cartridge, that is, magnets are removed from their respective filtration positions and inserted in respective different cartridges from where the magnets were extracted.

Preferably, and according to the carousel movement, the magnets are inserted into the next nearest neighbour cartridge from where they were removed.

Preferably, the carousel actuation means is configured to move the magnets in a first direction to extract the magnets from the cartridges and a second direction to move the magnets between their filtration positions and the at least one cleaning position.

* *. The filtration apparatus comprises at least one carousel motor to drive actuation of the carousel assembly to move the magnets. This motor may comprise any conventional motor controllable via a computer or programmable logic circuit (PLC). **** * ****

Preferably, the carousel comprises a Geneva drive configured to provide a rotational movement of the magnets between the filtration position and the cleaning position.

**.*** :. ; 30 * Preferably, the magnets are mounted at a rotatable frame that may be rotatably connected to a movable support frame. The movable frame may be configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotational plane of the rotatable frame. Preferably, the rotatable frame is mounted at wheel means wherein the frame is configured to rotate about a central axis via the wheel means.

Preferably, each cartridge comprises a case to house the magnet wherein fluid is capable of flowing between the case and the magnet and through the magnetic flux created by the magnet(s).

Preferably, each magnet comprises an elongate magnetic core comprising at least four columns of magnets, at least two columns having a north plurality extending substantially the length of the columns, and at least two columns having a south plurality extending substantially the length of the columns wherein the at least four columns are arranged lengthwise along a central longitudinal axis of the core in alternating north and south plurality.

The cases may be mounted on a static support frame with the inlet and outlet of each cartridge positioned at this static support frame.

The apparatus is configured such that at least one filter cartridge is operative to filter contaminant material whilst at least one magnet is maintained in the cleaning position.

The present apparatus, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, may comprise any number of cartridges and a single or a plurality of cleaning positions in which a plurality of magnets may be cleaned whilst a plurality of magnets, in their respective filtration positions, within the cartridges, operate to filter contaminant material from the fluid.

*.** 25 * . S...

Preferably, each cartridge comprises seal means to provide a fluid tight seal when each * 5* magnet is housed within a respective cartridge at the filtration position. The seal means may comprise any conventional 0-ring, gasket and the like.

*....S Preferably, the contaminant removal means is a mechanical scraper having movable jaws.

* Optionally, each jaw comprises a scraping portion having a profile corresponding to that of an outer surface of each magnet. The scraper comprises a jaw actuator configured to open and close the moveable jaws between an engaged position in contact with the outer surface of the magnet and a non-engaged position.

The present invention provides an automated filtration device configured to shuttle magnets between different filtration cartridges and one or a plurality of cleaning positions in which a scraper is configured to scrape deposited ferrous material from about the magnet as part of the automated actuation of the device. Control means are provided being electronically coupled to at least the carousel assembly and the contaminant removal means to provide automated control of the movement of the magnets between respective positions and optionally actuation of the contaminant removal means. According to various specific implementations, the dislodgement of contaminant material from the magnet/magnetic core is achieved as the magnets are moved as part of the carousel cycle between respective filtration cartridges. Alternatively, the contaminant removal means may be configured for operation independently of the carousel assembly. Optionally, and where the contaminant removal means is a scraper having movable jaws, the jaws may be configured to operate independently or according to a coupled movable relationship with the carousel assembly.

Automated control of the magnetic filtration apparatus may be provided by a PC with software running on the PC. Alternatively the controller may comprise a PLC or other suitable electronic controllers known in the art. To achieve electronic automation, the apparatus comprises a plurality of electromagnetic valves controllable by the control means. These valves may comprise solenoid valves or the like. The apparatus may further * *** comprise at least one pump configured to create a flow of fluid through the cartridges and :.:: 25 to remove fluid from the apparatus prior to magnet cleaning and carousel movement. The **** pump may be controlled by the control means. *.** * *..I

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of filtering contaminant material from a fluid comprising: allowing fluid to flow through a *..S.

30 plurality of cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least on magnet configured to create a * magnetic field in the flow path of the fluid flowing through the cartridge between a cartridge fluid inlet and an outlet, the magnets being maintained in respective filtration positions; removing the magnets from their respective filtration positions within the cartridges; moving the magnets using the carousel assembly; inserting the magnets into different cartridges from where the magnets were removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a contaminant removal means during the step of inserting the magnets into different cartridges.

Preferably, the method comprises removing the magnets from their respective filtration positions within the cartridges by movement in a first direction; rotating the magnets about a central axis using the carousel assembly; inserting the magnets into different cartridges from where the magnets were removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a contaminant removal means during the step of inserting the magnets into different cartridges.

A specific implementation of the present invention one that will be described, by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side elevation view through the filtration apparatus illustrating two magnets within filtration cartridges attached to a carousel assembly according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates the filtration apparatus of Figure 1 in which the magnets have been extracted from the cartridges via the carousel assembly prior to rotation; a.., Figure 3 illustrates a plan view of the filtration apparatus of Figure 1 illustrating four filtration cartridges positioned at four out of five carousel stations with one station * occupied by a scraper; a.. a

Figure 4 illustrate a plan view of a Geneva drive component of the carousel assembly of Figure 3 located at the uppermost position of the filtration apparatus referring to Figure 1; Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view through a portion of the filtratIon apparatus of Figure 1 showing the scraper illustrated in Figure 2 located proximate to one of the magnets; Figure 6a illustrates a plan view of the scraper of Figure 5 having scraping jaws, moveable by actuators between a non-engaged and an engaged position to contact the outer surface of the magnet of Figure 5; Figure 6b illustrates a cross-section through A-A of the scraper of Figure 6a; Figure 7 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view through one of the filter cartridges illustrated in Figure 1.

Primarily, the present filtration apparatus comprises a plurality of filtration cartridges, each cartridge comprising a magnet configured to extract ferrous solid particulates from a fluid passing through the apparatus. The cartridges are attached to a carousel assembly configured to move the magnets between cartridges either in a linear or rotational cyclical movement. One carousel position is occupied by a scraper and configured to receive the magnet from an adjacent cartridge and to dislodge the deposited ferrous metal particulates from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the magnet. The magnet is then moved from this cleaning position into a filtration position within one of the cartridges.

The carousel assembly may be configured for use with any number of cartridges. The * ** * carousel assembly of the present specific implementation is configured to sequentially :.:: 25 move the magnets in a cyclical manner between cartridges and importantly the cleaning I* station occupying one of the available carousel positions. Accordingly, and during use, *.** one or more magnets are maintained in the filtration position, within the cartridges, whilst at least one magnet is positioned at the scraper for removal of contaminant particulates, * passing through the apparatus, as the carousel assembly cycles the magnets through the various carousel positions. The present filtration apparatus is configured to be fully * automated under the control of a PC, a PLC or similar.

Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the filtration apparatus comprising a carousel assembly 105 and a plurality of filtration cartridges 100 located at carousel positions A to D with reference to Figure 3. Each cartridge 100 comprises a magnetic core 101 comprising a plurality of columns of magnets arranged around a central axis in alternating north and south polarity as illustrated further with reference to Figure 7. The magnets are mounted on a central column 129 with the core being suspended within an outer case 102. Cartridge head 121 is positioned at one end of the case 102 and comprises an inlet 104 connected in fluid communication with a fluid delivery hose assembly 115. Hose assembly 115 is connected in fluid communication with the fluid network (not shown) from which the ferrous contaminant particles are to be removed. This connection may be maintained in an on-line or off-line nature. In the on-line configuration, the present invention is operative to filter the working fluid as the fluid network is running or is momentarily stopped. In the off-line mode, the working fluid network is inoperative as filtration is undertaken.

Cartridge inlet 104 comprises a tapered, inclined surface 103 defining directing ports configured to induce turbulence within the fluid as it flows through cartridge 100 between inlet 104 and an outlet 128 positioned at a second end of casing 102 relative to cartridge head 121. Outlet 128 is formed within a cartridge mounting boss 113 connecting outer case 102 to the carousel assembly 105. Boss 113 comprises one or more 0-rings 114 configured to provide a fluid tight seal between boss 113 and a cartridge lid 112 configured to mate with boss 113 to provide a sealed cartridge unit in which fluid is capable of flowing within the internal cartridge chamber 122 from inlet 104 past the magnetic core 101 and out of the cartridge via outlet 128. * * * * *

Carousel assembly 105 comprises a hydraulic ram actuator having a cylinder 116 and **** movable piston arm 117. One end of cylinder 116 is mounted at a static base (not shown) *..: and a second end is mounted at a static frame plate 123. The furthest extendible end of * piston 116 is positioned at a suspended rotation plate 106. Plate 106 is mounted upon a * plurality of support rollers 107 that are suspended from a static annular support frame 124.

***..S * 30 S. * *.: The furthest extendible end of piston 117 passes centrally through rotation plate 106 and is immovably secured at a central position of static support frame 124. A plurality of guide shafts 117 are immovably attached to the perimeter of support frame 124 and extend through a perimeter region of lower support frame 123 via respective frame mounting bosses 126 positioned adjacent to the cartridge mounting bosses 113. Guide shafts 117 are configured to slide through bosses 126 as the carousel assembly is actuated.

A plurality of resiliently biased guides 108 are mounted at the uppermost support frame 124 to bear down on an upper surface of rotation plate 106 so as to force it into contact with rollers 107. At least one stop 109 is positioned between support frame 124 and rotation plate 106 configured to prevent unwanted movement of plate 106 relative to frame 124 in the axial direction 127 extending along the length of piston arm 117 and hydraulic cylinder 116.

Carousel assembly 105 comprises drive means configured to impart the carousel rotational movement of the magnetic cores 101 between carousel positions A to E. The drive means iS comprises a motor 110 mounted at the annular support frame 124. Motor 110 is connected to a Geneva drive, illustrated in detail with reference to Figure 4, via a drive axel 125 that interfaces with a drive wheel 120 configured to drive a slotted Geneva driven disc 118 via Geneva pin 119. The Geneva driven wheel 118 rotates about central axis 127 extending centrally through static support frames 123, 124 and rotation plate 106.

Referring to Figure 2, the uppermost support frame 124 and rotation plate 106 are movable relative to base support frame 123 mounting cartridge case 102 and head 121. Movement of the uppermost components of the carousel assembly (frame 124, plate 106 and * a. associated mounted components) is provided via the actuation of piston 117 extending * * . :.::* 25 from hydraulic cylinder 116. Guide shafts 117 slidably movable through bosses 126 and provide stabilisation of the carousel assembly as the upper components are moved in the vertical direction serving to withdraw magnetic cores 101, mounted at rotation plate 106, * from the cartridge cases 102 and heads 121. Importantly, the magnetic cores 101 are * displaced in the upward direction to a position such that a lowermost end of each core 200 *.*.IS is raised above an upper sealing lip 201 provided adjacent each 0-ring 114 of mounting * bosses 113. Accordingly, magnetic cores 101 are capable of displacement in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 127 extending through piston 117 by the carousel assembly. Accordingly, a magnetic core extracted from case 102 at position A is movable by displacement in a first, second and third position into carousel position B, whilst a second magnetic core 101 is moved from position D to a cleaning position E. Each carousel station position may be occupied by a magnetic core 101 with positions A -D, corresponding to filtration positions in which the magnetic cores are housed within cartridges 100 whilst position E represents the non-filtration, cleaning position.

A scraper assembly 300 is located at carousel position E. The scraper assembly 300 comprises a base 307 mounting a scraper support arm 304. First and second movable jaws 301 are pivotally mounted at one end of arm 304 via pivot means 305. First and second actuating means 303 are connected between each respective movable jaw 301 and a flange 308 extending outwardly from each side of arm 304 furthest from pivot 305.

Scraper assembly 300 is mounted in static position such that at least a portion of movable jaws 301 are configured to contact the outer surface of magnetic core 101 when held in position at cleaning station E as illustrated with reference to Figure 5. In cleaning position E, with all magnets of the carousel maintained in their lowered positions within respective cartridge cases 102, movable jaws 301 contact the uppermost region of magnetic core 101 proximate to the cartridge lid 112.

Figure 3 further illustrates hose assembly 306 providing fluid communication between each outlet 126 of respective filtration cartridges 100. A further outlet (not shown) is provided at the uppermost hose network 306 to allow the on-flow of fluid from the present filtration apparatus to, for example, a separate storage tank, recirculation through the * filtration apparatus or reintroduction into the working fluid line (not shown).

* Figure 4 illustrates selected components of the Geneva drive assembly. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the Geneva drive mechanism provides translation of continuous rotation into an intermittent or quantised rotary motion. Briefly, drive * assembly 400 comprises drive wheel 120 driven by the drive axle 125 of motor 110. An engaging pin 119 extending from drive wheel 120 is configured for insertion within the slots 401 formed within the Geneva driven wheel 118. As drive axle 125 rotates, the pin 119 sequentially enters each slot 401 serving to rotate driven wheel 118 in the opposite rotational direction of drive wheel 120.

Drive assembly 400 provides the quantised, carousel like translational movement of the magnetic cores 101 between carousel stations A to E each time pin 119 engages a slot 401 of the wheel 118. Translation of this rotational motion between wheel 118 and magnetic cores 101 is provided by the rotational coupling of rotation plate 106 and driven wheel 118.

The scraper assembly 300 is illustrated in further detail with reference to Figures 6a and 6b, where 6b represents a cross section through the plan view of Figure 6a along A-A.

Movable jaws 301 each comprise a scraping portion 601 comprising a profile corresponding to that of the outer surface of magnetic core 101. According to the present specific implementation, each scraping portion 601 comprises a cross sectional profile of a semi-circle for seating flush against the outer surface of the cylindrical core 101. Scraping portion 601 may be formed by the same or a different material to each respective movable jaw 301. Each movable actuator 303 comprises a hydraulic support cylinder 604 respectively secured to flanges 308. A movable piston arm 603 extends from each of the two cylinders 604 mounted either side of the central arm 304. Each piston 603 is connected to a respective movable jaw 301 by a pivot point 605. By actuation of piston 605 in the axial direction, jaws 301 are configured to move from an open position G to a closed position F in contact with the outer surface of magnetic core 101 in a direction a following arc 606. A guard 602 is mounted at the filtration apparatus adjacent the movable jaws 301. *.**

: Referring to Figure 7, each filtration cartridge 100 comprises the magnetic core 101 formed by four columns of rare earth magnets 704, 705 of alternating north and south polarity. Each magnetic column comprises four separate magnets 700, 701 of the same a...

** 30 corresponding polarity. Each magnetic column is separated by an adjacent column by a * small distance and are held in position and mounted at a central support cylinder 129.

Each column is aligned lengthways and parallel to the longitudinal axis 706 extending through each cartridge 100. The outermost surface of each of the four magnets 700, 701 is curved and capable of seating against and in contact or near contact with an inner surface of a cylindrical sleeve 702. The magnetic core 101, comprising magnets 700, 701, mounting column 129 and outer sleeve 702, is suspended from cartridge cap 112 via suitable mountings. An annular chamber 122 is defined by the outer surface of sleeve 702 and the innermost surface of case 102.

Inlet 104 is shaped to provide directing ports 103 formed as elongate slots in an upper surface of cartridge head 121. The depth of each directing port 103 decreases along its respective length to provide an inclined supply surface for the fluid entering internal chamber 122. This introduces the fluid along an inclined flow path into the catchment zone defined by the magnetic flux created by the columns of alternating north and south polarity magnets. These directing ports 103 introduce fluid into the catchment zone within chamber 122 in opposite directions so as to create turbulence in this region which has been found to enhance entrapment of the contaminant ferrous particulates. As fluid flows through the magnetic flux created by magnets 700, 701, solid particulates collect at the outer surface of sleeve 702 whereby uncontaminated, cleaned fluid exits the cartridge at outlet 128.

In use, the filtration apparatus receives working fluid via hose assembly 115. The working fluid, containing contaminant ferrous p articulates enters each chamber 122 of each cartridge where the particles are captured by the magnetic flux created by the four columns of magnets 704, 705. Filtered fluid then exits the cartridge chamber 122 via outlet 128 and ** . * is directed out of the filtration apparatus via hose assembly 306 for re-entry into the working fluid line or redirection for further filtration for example. *.*.

: Following a predetermined time the controller (not shown) terminates fluid flow through * the apparatus via an electromagnetic inlet valve (not shown) positioned upstream of the filtration apparatus. Liquid is drawn from the apparatus via a pump to remove working ****** fluid. The controller may then close the fluid outlet of the apparatus to isolate it from the * main working fluid line (not shown) via an electromagnetic outlet valve (not shown). The controller (not shown) then actuates hydraulic piston 117 to displace magnetic cores 101 upwardly away from cartridge heads 121 and cases 102 as illustrated in Figure 2 from the position illustrated in Figure 1.

Following execution of this first displacement of magnetic cores 101, the controller then actuates Geneva drive assembly 400 to rotate the magnetic cores 101 between carousel positions A to E as illustrated in Figure 3. Accordingly, each magnetic core is then rotated in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the first displacement of Figure 2 such that a first magnetic core 101 is displaced from station position A to station position B. The controller then actuates piston 117 in reverse to withdraw magnetic cores 101 in a reverse downward direction into the next adjacent cartridge case 102. Filtration apparatus input and output valves (not shown) are then opened to reintroduce fluid into the apparatus for a further filtration cycle.

These steps are repeated such that a first magnetic core 101 at position A is rotated sequentially through carousel positions B, C, D to final cleaning station position E. Contaminant particulates therefore accumulate on the external surface of sleeve 702 as core 101 is rotated through positions A to D serving to cumulatively remove ferrous particulates at each stage. At position E, movable jaws 301 are maintained in the open position G whilst the magnetic core 101 is moved in the downward direction from the position of Figure 2 to the position of Figure 1. In the fully housed position of Figure 1, the controller (not shown) actuates pistons 603 to move jaws 301 to the closed position F. At the start of the next cycle when core 101 is displaced in the upward direction via piston 117, particulate matter deposited at sleeve 702 is scraped from its external surface va c,.., scraping portions 601 positioned in contact or in near touching contact with the outer surface of sleeve 702. The solid particulate matter is then collected in a suitable storage tank or tray (not shown) for subsequent disposal andlor recycling. *.**

The cleaned magnetic core is then rotated from cleaning station E to filtration position A to * begin the next complete cycle through filtration positions A to D to the final cleaning *. f,...

position E. Accordingly, particulate matter sequentially accumulates at sleeve 702 through * the carousel positions A to D. The PLC as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, is programmable to vary all operational parameters of the filtration apparatus including, for example, filtration time between magnetic core displacements and the speed with which cores 101 are moved in the first and second direction parallel to axis 127 etc. Also, the respective lengths and diameters of the magnetic cores may be varied together with a variation of the available number of carousel positions A to D. The apparatus may comprise a single or a plurality of scraper assemblies 300 mounted within the carousel positions. * * ** * * ** *.** * * * *** **** **e* *** *.*e. * * ** * * * S * S.

Claims

Claims 1. Magnetic filtration apparatus to separate contaminant material from a fluid, said apparatus comprising: a plurality of filter cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least one magnet, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, wherein the magnet is positioned such that a magnetic field generated by the magnet is created in the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet configured to entrap the contaminant material; a carousel assembly configured to move the magnets between a filtration position to filter contaminant material from the fluid and a cleaning position; and a contaminant removal means to dislodge the contaminant material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the at least one magnet in the cleaning position.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprising carousel actuation means to extract the magnets from the cartridges prior to moving the magnets between the filtration position and the cleaning position.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claims I or 2 wherein the carousel assembly is configured to move a magnet from a first filtration position within a first cartridge to a second filtration position within a second cartridge.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claims 2 or 3 wherein the carousel actuation means is * 25 configured to move the magnets in a first direction to extract the magnets from the * cartridges and a second direction to move the magnets between the filtration position and the cleaning position. *.*. * **.*

*:.
5. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim comprising at least one carousel motor to drive actuation of the carousel assembly to move the magnets.

****.* * * ** * * * * * **
6. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the carousel comprises a Geneva drive configured to provide a rotational movement of the magnets between the filtration position and the cleaning position.
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein the magnets are mounted at arotatable frame.
8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein said rotatable frame is rotatably connected to a movable support frame.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the movable frame is configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotational plane of the rotatable frame.
10. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9 wherein the rotatable frame is supported by wheel means wherein the frame is configured to rotate about a central axis via the wheel means.
11. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each cartridge comprises a case to house the magnet wherein fluid is capable of flowing between the case and the magnet.
12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11 wherein each magnet comprises an elongate magnetic core comprising at least four columns of magnets, at least two columns having a north plurality extending substantially the length of the columns, and at least two columns * 25 having a south plurality extending substantially the length of the columns wherein the at * least four columns are arranged lengthwise along a central longitudinal axis of the core in S...alternating north and south plurality. S...S S...
13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the cases are mounted at a static support frame.*.SS.S * S SS *S S S * *S
14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the inlet and outlet of each cartridge is positioned at the static support frame.
15. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim configured such that at least one filter cartridge is operative to filter contaminant material whilst at least one magnet is maintained in the cleaning position.
16. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each cartridge comprises seal means to provide a fluid tight seal when each magnet is housed within a respective cartridge in the filtration position.
17. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the removal means comprises a scraper having moveable jaws.
18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein each jaw comprises a scraping portion having a profile corresponding to that of an outer surface of each magnet.
19. The apparatus as claimed in claims 17 or 18 comprising ajaw actuator configured to open and close the moveable jaws between an engaged position in contact with the outer surface of the magnet and a non-engaged position.
20. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim comprising control means electronically coupled to at least the carousel assembly and the removal means to provide automated control of the movement of the carousel assembly and the removal means in use. * ** * * S * ** *.**

*
21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein the control means comprises a PC and software running on the PC. S..
22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein the control means comprises a : : : : proatable logic controller.
23. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 23 comprising electro-magnetic valves controllable by said control means.
24. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a pump to create a flow of fluid through said cartridges.
25. A method of filtering contaminant material from a fluid comprising: allowing fluid to flow through a plurality of cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least on magnet configured to create a magnetic field in the flow path of the fluid flowing through the cartridge between a cartridge fluid inlet and a outlet, the magnets being maintained in respective filtration positions; removing the magnets from their respective filtration positions within the cartridges; moving the magnets using the carousel assembly; inserting the magnets into different cartridges from where the magnets were removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a contaminant removal means during the step of inserting the magnets into different cartridges.
26. The method as claimed in claim 25 comprising: removing the magnets from their respective filtration positions within the cartridges by movement in a first direction; rotating the magnets about a central axis using the carousel assembly; :::::: inserting the magnets into different cartridges from where the magnets were removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a removal S...means during the step of inserting the magnets into different cartridges.
27. The method as claimed in claim 26 further comprising: automating control of the carousel assembly and the movement of the magnets relative to the cartridges and the removal means using control means.
28. The method as claimed in claim 27 comprising controlling the filtration apparatus using a programmable logic controller.
29. The method as claimed in claim 27 comprising controlling the filtration apparatus using a PC and software running on the PC.
30. The method as claimed in claim 26 comprising: dislodging contaminant material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the magnet using the contaminant removal means. * .. e * * * S. S... * . S... S...S S...S S..S*5SS*S * . *. SS S S S *SAmendments to the claims have been filed as follows: 1. Magnetic filtration apparatus to separate contaminant material from a fluid, said apparatus comprising: a plurality of filter cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least one magnet, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, wherein the at least one magnet is positioned such that a magnetic field generated by the magnet is created in the fluid flow path between the inlet and the outlet configured to entrap the contaminant material; a carousel assembly configured to move the at least one magnet between a filtration position to filter contaminant material from the fluid and a cleaning position; and a contaminant removal means to dislodge the contaminant material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the at least one magnet in the cleaning position.2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprising carousel actuation means to extract the at least one magnet from the cartridges prior to moving the magnets between the filtration position and the cleaning position.3. The apparatus as claimed in claims 1 or 2 wherein the carousel assembly is configured to move a magnet from a first filtration position within a first cartridge to a second filtration position within a second cartridge.* * * S ** * *. 4. The apparatus as claimed in claims 2 or 3 wherein the carousel actuation means is * configured to move the at least one magnet in a first direction to extract the at least one 25 magnet from the cartridges and a second direction to move the at least one magnet * between the filtration position and the cleaning position. *. ** * * * **: 5. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim comprising at least one carousel motor to drive actuation of the carousel assembly to move the at least one magnet.6. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the carousel comprises a Geneva drive configured to provide a rotational movement of the at least one magnet between the filtration position and the cleaning position.7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein the at least one magnet is mounted ata rotatable frame.8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein said rotatable frame is rotatably connected to a movable support frame.9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the movable frame is configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotational plane of the rotatable frame.10. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9 wherein the rotatable frame is supported by wheel means wherein the frame is configured to rotate about a central axis via the wheel means.11. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each cartridge comprises a case to house the magnet wherein fluid is capable of flowing between the case and the magnet.12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11 wherein each magnet comprises an elongate magnetic core comprising at least four columns of magnets, at least two columns having a north plurality extending substantially the length of the columns, and at least two columns *: ::: having a south plurality extending substantially the length of the columns wherein the at *. least four columns are alTanged lengthwise along a central longitudinal axis of the core in S...alternating north and south plurality. : 2513. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the cases are mounted at a static support frame.14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the inlet and outlet of each cartridge is positioned at the static support frame.15. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim configured such that at least one filter cartridge is operative to filter contaminant material whilst at least one magnet is maintained in the cleaning position.16. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each cartridge comprises seal means to provide a fluid tight seal when each magnet is housed within a respective cartridge in the filtration position.17. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the removal means comprises a scraper having moveable jaws.18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein each jaw comprises a scraping portion having a profile corresponding to that of an outer surface of each magnet.19. The apparatus as claimed in claims 17 or 18 comprising ajaw actuator configured to open and close the moveable jaws between an engaged position in contact with the outer surface of the magnet and a non-engaged position.: 20. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim comprising control means * electronically coupled to at least the carousel assembly and the removal means to provide automated control of the movement of the carousel assembly and the removal means in 25 use. *:* 21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein the control means comprises a PC *:*. and software running on the PC.22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein the control means comprises a programmable logic controller.23. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 23 comprising electro-magnetic valves controllable by said control means.24. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a pump to create a flow of fluid through said cartridges.25. A method of filtering contaminant material from a fluid comprising: allowing fluid to flow through a plurality of cartridges, each cartridge comprising at least one magnet configured to create a magnetic field in the flow path of the fluid flowing through the cartridge between a cartridge fluid inlet and an outlet, the at least one magnet being maintained in respective filtration position; removing the at least one magnet from its respective filtration position within the cartridge; moving the at least one magnet using a carousel assembly; inserting at least one magnet into a different cartridge from where the at least one magnet was removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a contaminant removal means during the step of inserting the at least one magnet into the different cartridge.26. The method as claimed in claim 25 comprising: *: :: removing the at least one magnet from its respective filtration position within the *: :: : cartridge by movement in a first direction; rotating the at least one magnet about a central axis using the carousel assembly; inserting at least one magnet into a different cartridge from where the at least one magnet was removed; and moving at least one magnet into a cleaning position proximate to a removal ** : means during the step of inserting the at least one magnet into the different cartridge.27. The method as claimed in claim 26 further comprising: automating control of the carousel assembly and the movement of the at least one magnet relative to the cartridges and the removal means using control means.28. The method as claimed in claim 27 comprising controlling the filtration apparatus using a programmable logic controller.29. The method as claimed in claim 27 comprising controlling the filtration apparatus using a PC and software running on the PC.30. The method as claimed in claim 26 comprising: dislodging contaminant material from entrapment by the magnetic field created by the magnet using the contaminant removal means. * * * *. * * *** * * ****S **.* * *.* * *S ** * S S * S S. * * * . * *.