Machine for magnetic separation

Abstract

Machine for magnetic separation A material handling apparatus for the separation of material comprises a magnetic separation arrangement locatable at an output of a delivery means for delivering an unseparated material stream to the magnetic separation arrangement, wherein the magnetic separation arrangement comprises a rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a powered actuation means and a support means for laterally and / or longitudinally movably supporting the rotatable magnetic drum, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum. A means for permitting removal of large, trapped material is also provided and a magnetic arrangement adjusting means.

Description

[0001] MACHINE FOR MAGNETIC SEPARATION

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an improved machine for magnetic separation and in particular for the separation of ferrous from non-ferrous materials in a material stream.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Magnetic drum separators are a preferred means for mechanical separation of ferrous from non-ferrous material. In particular, magnetic separation of this kind is usually required in recycling, municipal solid waste, wood waste, slag, incinerator bottom ash, foundry sand, and in mineral processing applications. Magnetic drum separators are used to sort shredded scrap material streams that comprise a combination of ferrous and non-ferrous material by extracting the ferrous material. A magnetic field of the drum separator causes ferrous material to experience magnetic force, thereby taking a separate path to non-ferrous material through the separator, permitting separation thereof.

[0006] Typically, these magnetic drum separators are used within a material separation plant which may be either fixedly installed as an immobile plant, may comprise constituent apparatus for movement between locations, or the magnetic drum separators may be secured on a chassis with other apparatus such as a feeder and one or more conveyors with an engine to move the chassis and wheels and / or continuous tracks to convert power from the engine into movement across ground. These options may be classed as fixed, modular, and mobile respectively.

[0007] The magnetic drum separator typically comprises a cylindrical outer shell which rotates around a magnetic field, the magnetic field not rotating with the drum. The magnetic field is produced by either one or more electromagnets and / or one or more permanent magnets. The magnets are supported at a fixed position within the drum relative to an inner facing wall of the drum. The rotating outer shell provides a surface against which ferrous materials can be retained in order to communicate them into a ferrous material pathway. The rotating outer shell also provides a means for ferrous material mixed with non-ferrous contaminants to be progressively agitated by the arrangement of magnets, so that the contaminants may fall away from the ferrous materials and into a non-ferrous material pathway. By ‘progressively agitated’ we mean that the ferrous material is agitated as it moves around the magnetic drum on the rotating outer shell. This is achieved in practice by having an arrangement of magnets with a sudden change of magnetic field direction over the path taken by the ferrous material pieces. This causes ferrous scrap pieces to turn / flip, allowing non-ferrous scrap pieces to fall away from the ferrous scrap pieces.

[0008] Thereby ferrous and non-ferrous materials are separated into distinct pathways following movement over the magnetic drum.

[0009] Conveniently, the magnetic drum separator is associated at the entry with a feeder for transferring the material stream to be separated in correspondence of said drum, while at the output the first discharge port and / or the second discharge port are associated with corresponding conveyor belts. By ‘in correspondence of said drum’ we mean that the feeder transports the pieces of material in the material stream to a portion of the magnetic drum. The feeder may comprise a belt conveyor or a pan feeder. By the ‘first discharge port’ and ‘second discharge port’ being associated with the corresponding conveyor belts at the output we mean that the material pieces are transported from the feeder and either to a first discharge port and from there to a first conveyor or to a second discharge port and from their to a second conveyor, either after moving on part of the drum or not.

[0010] For example, the operation of an under fed magnetic drum separator is as follows: the material stream to be separated coming from the feeder arrives in correspondence of the drum underneath a bottom portion of the outer surface of the drum so that the magnet of the latter picks up and holds ferrous (magnetic) materials until they reach the first discharge port, while the non-magnetic materials are not affected by the action of the magnet and pass beneath the drum, thus reaching the second discharge port.

[0011] Top fed separators feed both a ferrous and non-ferrous fraction of an unseparated material stream onto a top portion of the outer surface of the drum, the non-ferrous material falling onto the magnetic drum under gravity, and the magnetic field retains the ferrous material pieces and allows the non-ferrous material pieces to fall from the drum as the ferrous and non-ferrous material pieces and the drum rotate.

[0012] Under fed separators require a stronger magnetic field because they must lift the ferrous scrap pieces from the feeder surface. Under fed conveyors have been found to achieve a purer ferrous output (less non-ferrous material in the ferrous output pathway) but a decreased total ferrous recovery (more ferrous material in the non-ferrous output pathway) in comparison to top fed separators.

[0013] In the arrangements described above, it is a frequent issue that non-ferrous contaminants are picked up or retained by the ferrous material attracted to the magnet. Even with the provision of agitator arrangements, such contaminants can make their way into the ferrous material pathway. It is a further problem that ferrous materials being either too heavy or buried within or underneath non-ferrous materials can not be picked up by the magnet and make their way into the non-ferrous material pathway.

[0014] A further problem with the prior art arrangements is that large pieces of material can get into the separator and fail to be either screened out in an initial screening process or fail to be collected by the arrangement of magnets of the magnetic drum separator. Such large objects can cause problems to the conveyors of the separation arrangements where accumulation thereof causes strain on the motors of the conveyors, adversely affecting efficiency and potentially also safety. Large scrap pieces can also cause blockages in under fed conveyors due to the proximity of the drum and the conveyor / feeder. The manual inspection and increased oversight which is required if there are large, oversized scrap pieces in the material stream is significant.

[0015] In material separation arrangements according to the prior art it is also a problem that material pieces which pass onto an inclined conveyor may roll down to a lower end of the conveyor and cause accumulations of scrap which hampers the efficient and safe operation of the separators.

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate the problems outlined above.

[0017] It is a further object of the invention to provide a magnetic drum separator apparatus, and magnetic separation machine, where oversized material pieces are prevented from causing blockages between the drum of a magnetic separator apparatus and the feeder to the drum particularly for under fed magnetic drum separators.

[0018] It is a further object of the invention to provide an apparatus for facilitating the extraction of oversized material pieces from a conveyor.

[0019] Another object of the invention to provide a magnetic separation machine that is stand alone, highly versatile and is safe for use. Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine that is easily and quickly adjustable according to the needs of the specific application, even during the use of the machine.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine that is environmentally friendly, readily controllable and user-friendly.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine that enables an accurate separation of magnetic material from non-magnetic material.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine that enables a fast separation of magnetic material from non-magnetic material, thus allowing a high recovery of magnetic material.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine that has an alternative and improved characterisation and design, in both constructional and functional terms, compared with the known solutions for magnetic separation.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to provide a magnetic separation machine of easy, quick and low-cost construction.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to provide a means to prevent the accumulation of large, trapped material at the base of a conveyor belt in a material separation arrangement.

[0026] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Accordingly, the present invention provides a material handling apparatus for the separation of material, the material handling apparatus comprising a means for receiving material, said receiving means having at least one conveyor means for delivering material out of the means for receiving material, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a magnetic separation arrangement located at an output of the material delivery means, wherein the magnetic separation arrangement comprises a rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a powered actuation means for varying the position of the rotatable magnetic drum laterally and / or longitudinally towards and / or away from the output end of the material delivery means, wherein the powered actuation means is mountable on a support structure of the material handling apparatus.

[0028] By ‘laterally and / or longitudinally towards and / or away from the output end of the material delivery means’ we mean ‘laterally towards and away from the output end of the material delivery means and / or longitudinally towards and away from the output end of the material delivery means’.

[0029] By ‘laterally’ and ‘longitudinally’, it is meant that the powered actuation means is operable to vary the lateral and / or longitudinal distance between the rotatable magnetic drum and the output of the material delivery means.

[0030] By the rotatable magnetic drum being movable longitudinally towards and away from the output end of the material delivery means is meant longitudinally with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the material delivery means or a direction of delivery of the material delivery means or to open and close a gap between the output end of the material delivery means and an outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0031] By the rotatable magnetic drum being movable laterally towards and away from the output end of the material delivery means is meant laterally or transversely with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the material delivery means or a direction of delivery of the material delivery means. This setup may be chosen in certain cases where the rotatable magnetic drum is arranged in a direction having an axis of the drum parallel with the longitudinal dimension of the material delivery means.

[0032] The present invention also provides in a second aspect a material handling apparatus for the separation of material comprising a magnetic separation arrangement locatable at an output of a delivery means for delivering an unseparated material stream to the magnetic separation arrangement, wherein the magnetic separation arrangement comprises a rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a powered actuation means and a support means for movably supporting the rotatable magnetic drum, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum for moving the rotatable magnetic drum towards laterally and / or longitudinally towards and / or away from the output of the delivery means.

[0033] ‘Laterally’ and ‘longitudinally’ in terms of movement of the drum are given the same meanings as explained in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0034] Ideally, the support means comprises a support structure having two or more components movable relative to each other for allowing the rotatable magnetic drum to move for opening and closing a gap between the delivery means and the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0035] Advantageously, movement of the rotatable magnetic drum longitudinally towards and away from the output end of the material delivery means permits separation of ferrous objects of various weights and variably embedded under / within non-ferrous material. For example, where ferrous material is more embedded under non-ferrous material, the drum can be moved closer to the output end of the material delivery conveyor to increase the magnetic field strength at said end.

[0036] Further advantageously, movement of the rotatable magnetic drum allows the drum to be moved towards the output end of the material delivery means and also towards a proximal portion of the material delivery means away from the output end of the material delivery means and towards a distal end of the delivery means opposite the output end of the delivery means. This means that the drum can be directly suspended over the delivery means at a distance closer to a proximal portion of the delivery means advantageously increasing pick up of ferrous material.

[0037] Ideally, the delivery means comprises a belt conveyor.

[0038] Ideally, the delivery means comprises a vibrating feeder.

[0039] Ideally, the delivery means comprises a pan feeder.

[0040] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement.

[0041] By ‘passing’ we mean not being attracted towards or onto the rotatable magnetic drum. This includes non-ferrous material and ferrous material not being attracted by the magnetic separation means for reasons including that the ferrous material is too heavy, anomalously shaped, or trapped or embedded in / with non-ferrous material. By anomalously shaped we mean having a shape which results in the material experiencing a lower magnetic attractive force. Spherical ferrous pieces tend to be more difficult for magnetic drum separators to separate from non-ferrous material.

[0042] Ideally, the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement comprises at least one conveyor means.

[0043] Advantageously, a portion of the material passing the magnetic separation arrangement, in particular the rotatable magnetic drum thereof, falls to the means for collecting material from the output of the delivery means. From there, the conveyor means permits the movement of said material away from the material handling arrangement to be further processed or transported as necessary.

[0044] Ideally, the at least one conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement is oriented perpendicularly or transversely to the material delivery means.

[0045] Ideally, the at least one conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement comprises an inclined conveyor means for transporting non-ferrous material up a slope of the inclined conveyor means.

[0046] Ideally, the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement is located below the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0047] Ideally, at least a portion of the conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement is located below the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0048] Ideally, at least a portion of the conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the output of the material delivery means passing the magnetic separation arrangement is located below the means for receiving material, in particular below at least a portion of the material delivery means of the means for receiving material.

[0049] Ideally, the material delivery means of the means for receiving material comprises a screening means for screening material received by the means for receiving material.

[0050] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a means for collecting material from at least one output of the screening means.

[0051] Ideally, the means for collecting material from at least one output of the screening means comprises at least one conveyor means for delivering material out of the means for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening means.

[0052] Ideally, the means for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening means is located below the screening means.

[0053] Ideally, the conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening means comprises at least one inclined conveyor means.

[0054] Advantageously, material passing through the at least one output of the screening means falls to the means for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening means.

[0055] Ideally, at least a portion of the conveyor means of the means for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening means is located below the receiving means of the material handling apparatus in particular the material delivery means and the screening means.

[0056] Ideally, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum comprises at least one length adjustable actuator.

[0057] Ideally, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum comprises at least one length adjustable mechanical actuator and / or at least one length adjustable hydraulic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable pneumatic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable electromechanical actuator.

[0058] Ideally, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum comprises at least one linear actuator. Ideally, the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum comprises at least one linear mechanical actuator and / or at least one linear hydraulic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear pneumatic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear electromechanical actuator.

[0059] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum is mounted between the rotatable magnetic drum and the support means of the material handling apparatus.

[0060] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum is hingedly mounted between the rotatable magnetic drum and the support means of the material handling apparatus.

[0061] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum is hingedly mounted to the support structure of the material handling apparatus.

[0062] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum is hingedly mounted to the support means of the material handling apparatus via a clevis.

[0063] Ideally, the powered actuation means for causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum comprises two linear actuators mounted on opposing lateral side portions of the magnetic separation arrangement.

[0064] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the powered actuation means is mountable to the rotatable magnetic drum via a magnetic drum supporting arrangement.

[0065] Ideally, the magnetic drum supporting arrangement is connected to a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum in use.

[0066] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a means for collecting ferrous material from the output of the material delivery means passing over the magnetic separation arrangement on an outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum in use.

[0067] Ideally, the means for collecting ferrous material comprises at least one conveyor means.

[0068] Ideally, the at least one conveyor means of the means for collecting ferrous material is aligned with the material delivery means.

[0069] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises one or more side walls secured to the magnetic drum supporting framework and movable with the rotatable magnetic drum. Advantageously, as the rotatable magnetic drum moves in use, the side walls secured to the magnetic drum supporting framework overlap with one or more side walls of the material delivery means and / or the one or more side walls of the at least one conveyor means of the means for collecting ferrous material for preventing material spilling over onto other pieces of machinery in the vicinity.

[0070] The present invention also provides a magnetic drum supporting means for allowing a rotatable magnetic drum to move towards and away from a surface of an unseparated material stream delivery means and the outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum, the rotatable magnetic drum supporting means comprising a drum bracket means and a fixed position supporting means, wherein in use the drum bracket means mounts the rotatable magnetic drum on the fixed position supporting means by supporting a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the fixed position supporting means is securable in a fixed position relative to a material delivery means, wherein the drum bracket means comprises one or more components movable on the fixed position supporting means in use for moving the rotatable magnetic drum in a direction towards and away from the unseparated material stream delivery means

[0071] Ideally, the drum bracket means comprises two drum mounting brackets, the two drum mounting brackets being locatable at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum for supporting the shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0072] Ideally, the fixed position supporting means is suitable for supporting the drum bracket means at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0073] Ideally, the fixed position supporting means comprises two fixed position supporting brackets locatable at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0074] Ideally, the fixed position supporting means is securable on the ground.

[0075] Ideally, the fixed position supporting means is securable on a framework of a mobile magnetic separation machine.

[0076] Ideally, the two supporting brackets each comprise a base portion for supporting the drum mounting brackets directly on a supporting surface of the base portion, wherein the drum mounting brackets are slidable directly over the base portion of the supporting brackets of the fixed position supporting means.

[0077] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a guide means for guiding the relative movement of the rotatable magnetic drum and the support means.

[0078] Ideally, the guide means comprises a rail formed in a first component of the support means and a channel formed in a second component of the support means, wherein the first and second components are movable relative to one another along a path defined by the guide means.

[0079] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a means for permitting removal of large, trapped material from a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of a conveyor means, wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a first configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and a second configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted.

[0080] Ideally, there are a plurality of configurations between the first and second configurations.

[0081] Ideally, the first configuration, second configuration, and / or plurality of configurations therebetween are capable of being selectively operated and maintained.

[0082] Ideally, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a closed configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and an open configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted, and a plurality of configurations therebetween.

[0083] Ideally, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises one or more components for forming a chute.

[0084] Ideally, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a panel for closing an aperture defined between one or more perimeter edge surface portions of the panel and one or more internally facing surface portions of the chute.

[0085] Ideally, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a powered actuation means for varying the position of the panel relative to an opening of the aperture between the closed configuration where the panel covers the opening of the aperture and the open configuration where the panel does not cover the opening of the aperture.

[0086] Ideally, the panel is movably mounted on the chute.

[0087] Ideally, the panel is hingedly movably mounted on the chute. Ideally, the panel is movably mounted on an upper portion of the chute via a supporting means extending between opposing upper wall portions of the chute.

[0088] Ideally, the powered actuation means comprises at least one powered actuator mountable on an exterior facing surface of the one or more components for forming the chute.

[0089] Ideally, the powered actuation means of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises at least one length adjustable actuator, such as at least one length adjustable mechanical actuator and / or at least one length adjustable hydraulic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable pneumatic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable electromechanical actuator.

[0090] Ideally, powered actuation means of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises at least one linear actuator, such as at least one linear mechanical actuator and / or at least one linear hydraulic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear pneumatic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear electromechanical actuator.

[0091] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material is mounted between the chute and the panel.

[0092] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material is hingedly mounted between the chute and the panel.

[0093] Ideally, the at least one actuator of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material is hingedly mounted to both the chute and the panel.

[0094] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a material handling apparatus for the separation of material, the material handling apparatus comprising a means for receiving material, said means having at least one conveyor means for delivering material out of the means for receiving material, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a second conveyor means for moving material dispensed from an output end of the material delivery means, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a means for permitting removal of large, trapped material from a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of the one or more of said conveyors, wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a first configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and a second configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted.

[0095] Advantageously, material which has fallen down the conveyor means of the means for receiving material and / or the second conveyor means and which cannot be moved along said conveyors by the movement of the conveyor tracks / belts themselves can be removed from the lower portion of the said conveyors by the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material. This removes or lessens the strain that accumulation of trapped material can cause on the conveyors. The strain of accumulated trapped material includes strain on the motor of the conveyors which can become damaged by the heightened power requirement that such strain causes. The strain of the accumulated trapped material can become so great that the respective conveyor is entirely put out of activity by the trapped material, which is a problem obviated by the provision of the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material from a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of the one or more of said conveyors. Removal of trapped material also generally improves the operating efficiency of the material handling apparatus before such catastrophic consequences occur.

[0096] Further advantageously, in its first configuration, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material prevents trapped material which has fallen down the conveyor means of the means for receiving material and / or the second conveyor means from falling away from the material handling apparatus, potentially causing hazards in and / or beside the material handling apparatus.

[0097] Ideally, the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises one or more components for forming a chute and a panel for closing an aperture defined between one or more perimeter edge surface portions of the panel and one or more internally facing surface portions of the chute.

[0098] Ideally, the panel is movably mounted on the chute.

[0099] Ideally, the panel is hingedly movably mounted on the chute.

[0100] Ideally, the panel is movably mountable on an upper portion of the chute via a supporting means extending between opposing upper wall portions of the chute.

[0101] Ideally, the material handling apparatus comprises a magnetic separation arrangement wherein the magnetic separation arrangement comprises a rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a powered actuation means and a support means for laterally and / or longitudinally movably supporting the rotatable magnetic drum, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum.

[0102] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a magnetic arrangement adjusting means for adjusting the position of a magnetic arrangement within the rotatable magnetic drum relative to the support means, wherein the magnetic arrangement adjusting means is suitable for causing movement of the magnetic arrangement in response to movement of one or more components of the magnetic arrangement adjusting means, the magnetic arrangement adjusting means comprises an adjusting component securable at a pivot means aligned with an axis of the rotatable magnetic drum for actuating movement of the magnetic arrangement within the rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the adjusting component comprises a plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot in use, wherein each of the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot means on the adjusting component are located at a plurality of different angular positions on the adjusting component when viewed from a direction along the axis of the rotatable magnetic drum when the adjusting component is secured as part of the pivot in use.

[0103] Ideally, the adjusting component comprises a plurality of limbs comprising the means for receiving mechanical connections of the means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component, wherein two or more of the limbs comprising the means for receiving mechanical connections extend in different radial directions relative to the pivot means.

[0104] Ideally, the plurality of limbs comprise the means for receiving mechanical connections of the means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component extends in a radial direction relative to the pivot means and wherein one or more of the plurality of limbs extend in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction in which the one limb extending in the radial direction extends.

[0105] Ideally, the one or more limbs extend in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction extend in a tangential direction perpendicular to the radial direction in which one of the limbs extends.

[0106] Ideally, the one or more of the plurality of limbs extend in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction comprise two of the plurality of limbs extending laterally in respect of the adjusting component in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction in which one of the limbs extends.

[0107] Ideally, the adjusting component comprises a cruciform component comprising four limbs, one of which is the limb which extends in a radial direction, another two of which are the limbs extending laterally, and a fourth of the four limbs of the cruciform is a limb comprising the pivot means.

[0108] Ideally, the adjusting component comprises a plate component comprising the pivot means and the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections.

[0109] Ideally, the adjusting component comprises a one-piece component comprises the pivot means and the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections.

[0110] Ideally, the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot means are through holes formed in the adjusting component

[0111] Ideally, the adjusting component is elongate and wherein the means for receiving mechanical connections are located at an opposite distal end portion of the adjusting component relative to the pivot means.

[0112] Ideally, the adjusting component is approximately as long as the radius of a typical rotatable magnetic drum measured from the pivot means to the means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot in use.

[0113] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0114] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0115] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a material handling apparatus according to the invention showing the magnetic separation arrangement in a first in use position and an arrangement permitting removal of large, trapped material in a first, closed configuration.

[0116] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the material handling apparatus according to the embodiment of figure 1 with the magnetic separation arrangement in a second in use position.

[0117] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material in a first, closed configuration when located at a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of a material pathway according to the invention.

[0118] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material of figure 3 in a second, open configuration according to the invention.

[0119] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material when located at a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of a material pathway according to the invention.

[0120] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material of figures 3 and 4 without the conveyor arrangement.

[0121] Figure 7 is a side view of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material of figures 3, 4 and 6.

[0122] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material of figures 3, 4, 6 and 7.

[0123] Figure 9 is a side view of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material of figures 3, 4, and 6 to 8.

[0124] Figure 10 is a perspective partial view of the material handling apparatus of figures 1 and 2 showing the magnetic separation arrangement in a first in use position. Figure 11 is a perspective partial view of the material handling apparatus of figures 1, 2 and 10 showing the magnetic separation arrangement in a second in use position.

[0125] Figure 12 is a side partial view of the material handling apparatus of figures 1 , 2, 10 and 11 showing the magnetic separation arrangement in a second in use position.

[0126] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a drum mounting bracket according to the invention.

[0127] Figure 14 is a side view of a magnetic separation arrangement and ferrous material conveyor arrangement according to the invention with the magnetic separation in a second in use position.

[0128] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the magnetic separation arrangement and ferrous material conveyor arrangement of figure 14 with the magnetic separation in the second in use position.

[0129] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material when located at a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of a material pathway according to the invention.

[0130] SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION

[0131] Referring to the drawings there is shown a material handling apparatus indicated generally by reference number 1 (see figures 1, 2). The material handling apparatus 1 shown is more specifically a mobile material separation apparatus 1. The material handling apparatus 1 comprises an arrangement 2 for receiving material in the form of a hopper 2. Hopper 2 has a delivery arrangement in the form of a vibratory feeder for delivering material from the hopper 2.

[0132] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises a magnetic separation arrangement 4 located at the output 3 of the feeder. Magnetic separation arrangement 4 has a rotatable magnetic drum 5. The material handling apparatus 1 comprises a powered actuation arrangement for varying the position of the drum 5 longitudinally towards and away from the output end 3 of the feeder of the hopper 2. The powered actuation arrangement is mountable on a support structure of the material handling apparatus 1 (see figures 10, 11 and 12 for detailed views).

[0133] By the rotatable magnetic drum 5 being movable longitudinally towards and away from the output end of the feeder is meant longitudinally with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the feeder or a direction of delivery of the feeder or to open and close a gap between the output end of the feeder and an outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum 5.

[0134] The present invention also provides a material handling apparatus 1 for the separation of material comprising a magnetic separation arrangement 4 locatable at an output of a delivery arrangement 2, wherein the magnetic separation arrangement 4 comprises a rotatable magnetic drum 5, wherein the material handling apparatus 1 comprises a powered actuation arrangement and a support arrangement for laterally and / or longitudinally movably supporting the rotatable magnetic drum 5, the powered actuation arrangement causing relative movement between the support arrangement and the rotatable magnetic drum 5. The support arrangement comprises a support structure having two components 36, 38 movable relative to each other for allowing a rotatable magnetic drum 5 to move for opening and closing a gap between delivery arrangement 2 and the rotatable magnetic drum 5.

[0135] Advantageously, movement of the drum 5 permits separation of ferrous objects of various weights and variably embedded under / within non-ferrous material. For example, where ferrous material is more embedded under non-ferrous material, the drum 5 can be moved closer to the output end 3 of the material delivery conveyor of the receiving hopper 2 to increase the magnetic field strength at said end 3.

[0136] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises an arrangement 6 for collecting material from the output of the material delivery arrangement 2 passing the magnetic separation arrangement 4. Such material (a mixture of non-ferrous material and ferrous material not picked up by the magnetic separation arrangement 4) falls past magnetic drum 5 and to the collection arrangement 6. We refer to this movement of ferrous material as ‘passing’ the drum 5.

[0137] The arrangement 6 for collecting material from the output 3 of the feeder of hopper 2 passing the magnetic separation assembly 4 comprises a conveyor 7. Conveyor 7 is an inclined conveyor 7 for transporting non-ferrous material up a slope of the inclined conveyor

[0138] 7. Conveyor 7 is oriented perpendicularly to a direction of delivery of material by the feeder 2 however the conveyor 7 may form any angle with the direction of delivery of material by the feeder 2, such as a transverse angle.

[0139] Advantageously, a portion of the material passing the magnetic separation arrangement 4, in particular the rotatable magnetic drum 5 thereof, falls to the arrangement 6 for collecting material from the output of the feeder. From there, the conveyor 7 permits the movement of said material away from the material handling arrangement 1 to be further processed or transported as necessary.

[0140] The arrangement 6 for collecting material from the output 3 of the feeder of hopper 2 passing magnetic arrangement 4 is located below the rotatable magnetic drum 5 in order to collect material falling past the drum 5. It is also located below hopper 2, in particular, below output 3 of the feeder of hopper 2.

[0141] The material delivery arrangement of the receiving arrangement / hopper 2 comprises a screening arrangement 21 for screening material received by the receiving arrangement / hopper 2.

[0142] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises an arrangement 8 for collecting material from at least one output of the screening arrangement 21.

[0143] The arrangement 8 for collecting material from at least one output of the screening arrangement 21 comprises at least one conveyor 9 for delivering material out of arrangement

[0144] 8. A lower portion of conveyor 9 is located below the hopper 2, below the output 3 of feeder, and below screening arrangement 21 so that screened material can fall under gravity to the arrangement 8.

[0145] Conveyor 9 is an inclined conveyor.

[0146] Advantageously, material passing through the at least one output of the screening arrangement 21 falls to the arrangement 8 for collecting material from the at least one output of the screening arrangement 21.

[0147] The powered actuation arrangement causing relative movement between the support arrangement and the drum 5 comprises at least one length adjustable actuator 10, such as at least one length adjustable mechanical actuator and / or at least one length adjustable hydraulic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one length adjustable pneumatic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one length adjustable electromechanical actuator. In the embodiments depicted in figures 1 and 2 the actuator is a linear actuator 10.

[0148] Actuator 10 is mounted between the rotating magnetic drum 5 and the support arrangement of the material handling apparatus 1. In particular, actuator 10 is mounted hingedly to the support arrangement of material handling apparatus 10 at clevis 11. A second linear actuator 10 is mounted between the drum 5 and the support structure of the material handling apparatus 10 on the opposing side of the drum 5, which is obscured in figures 1 and 2. A framework is provided to support magnetic drum 5 and receive linear actuator 10 mounting wherein the drum 5 is allowed to rotate relative to the framework. Two Actuators 10 are mounted on opposing lateral side portions of the magnetic separation arrangement 4. Actuators 10 are mounted via support arrangement including drum mounting bracket 36.

[0149] The magnetic drum supporting arrangement, in particular drum mounting bracket 36, is connected to a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum in use.

[0150] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises an arrangement 44 for collecting ferrous material from the output of the feeder passing over the magnetic separation arrangement 4 on an outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 in use.

[0151] Arrangement 44 for collecting ferrous material comprises a conveyor.

[0152] Conveyor of arrangement 44 is aligned with the feeder.

[0153] Material handling apparatus 1 comprises side walls 46 secured to the magnetic drum supporting arrangement and movable with the rotatable magnetic drum 5 towards and away from the output of the feeder. Advantageously, as the rotatable magnetic drum 5 moves in use, the side walls 46 secured to the magnetic drum supporting arrangement overlap with one or more side walls of the material feeder and / or the one or more side walls of the conveyor of the arrangement 44 for collecting ferrous material for preventing material spilling over onto other pieces of machinery in the vicinity.

[0154] The present invention also provides a magnetic drum supporting arrangement for allowing a rotatable magnetic drum 5 to move towards and away from a surface of an unseparated material stream delivery means / feeder and the outer surface of the rotatable magnetic drum 5, the rotatable magnetic drum supporting means comprising a drum bracket arrangement 36 and a fixed position supporting arrangement 38, wherein in use the drum bracket arrangement 38 mounts the rotatable magnetic drum 5 on the fixed position supporting arrangement 38 by supporting a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum 5, wherein the fixed position supporting arrangement 38 is securable in a fixed position relative to the material delivery means / feeder, wherein the drum bracket arrangement 36 comprises one or more components movable on the fixed position supporting arrangement 38 in use for moving the rotatable magnetic drum 5 in a direction towards and away from the unseparated material stream delivery means / feeder.

[0155] The drum bracket arrangement 36 is suitable for mounting the rotatable magnetic drum 5 at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum 5.

[0156] The drum bracket arrangement 36 comprises two drum mounting brackets 36 (see figure 12 showing both two brackets 36), the two drum mounting brackets 36 being locatable at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 for supporting a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 in use.

[0157] The fixed position supporting arrangement is suitable for supporting the drum bracket arrangement at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum 5.

[0158] The fixed position supporting arrangement 38 is securable on a framework of a mobile magnetic separation machine 1.

[0159] The two fixed position supporting brackets 38 each comprise a base portion 41 for supporting the drum mounting brackets 36 directly on a supporting surface of the base portion 41, wherein the drum mounting brackets 36 are slidable directly over the base portion 41 of the fixed position supporting brackets 38 of the fixed position supporting arrangement.

[0160] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises a guide arrangement for guiding the relative movement of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 and the magnetic drum support arrangement. The guide arrangement comprises a rail 40 formed in the drum mounting bracket 36 of the support arrangement and a channel formed in fixed position mounting bracket 38 of the support arrangement, wherein the brackets 36, 38 are movable relative to one another along a path defined by the guide arrangement.

[0161] The fixed position supporting arrangement is securable on a self-supporting magnetic separation apparatus, optionally a self-supporting modular magnetic separation apparatus (not shown).

[0162] The material handling apparatus 1 comprises a guide arrangement for guiding the relative movement of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 and the support arrangement.

[0163] The guide arrangement comprises a rail 40 formed in the drum mounting brackets 36 and a channel formed in the fixed position supporting brackets 38, wherein the first and second components 36, 38 are movable relative to one another along a path defined by the guide arrangement.

[0164] In the depicted embodiments, the fixed position supporting arrangement is securable on a framework of a mobile magnetic separation machine. The fixed position securing arrangement is securable in a fixed position relative to the unseparated material stream delivery arrangement for example if the unseparated material stream delivery arrangement is also securable to the same framework of a mobile magnetic separation machine.

[0165] An arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material (not shown) from a lower upstream portion 13 (see figure 5) of an inclined portion 14 of the one or more of material delivery conveyor of receiving arrangement / hopper 2 and / or conveyor of 7 of the arrangement 6 for collecting material from the output of the material delivery conveyor of hopper 2 passing the magnetic separation arrangement 4.

[0166] The arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a first configuration (see figure 3) in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and a second configuration (see figure 4 and 5) in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted, and a plurality of configurations therebetween (not shown).

[0167] Advantageously, material which has fallen down either of the two aforesaid conveyors which cannot be moved along said conveyors by the movement of the conveyor tracks / belts can be removed from the lower portion 13 of the conveyors by the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material. This removes or lessens the strain that accumulation of trapped material can cause on the conveyors. The strain of accumulated trapped material includes strain on the motor of the conveyors which can become damaged by the heightened power requirement that such strain causes. The strain of the accumulated trapped material can become so great that the respective conveyor is entirely put out of activity by the trapped material, which is a problem obviated by the provision of the arrangement for permitting removal of large, trapped material from a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of the one or more of said conveyors. Removal of trapped material also generally improves the operating efficiency of the material handling apparatus before such catastrophic consequences occur.

[0168] The first configuration (figure 3), second configuration (figure 4 and 5), and plurality of configurations therebetween are capable of being selectively operated and maintained. Control for this purpose may be provided by an electrical / electronic arrangement (control system, not shown) comprising a manually operable switch connected to an actuating arrangement of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material. A switch for this purpose may be a toggle switch or momentary switch. Control of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material may be pre-programmable (for example automatically operating on the basis of a timer or schedule), in which case a programmable solid-state drive may be used to store control instructions to communicate to an actuator of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material.

[0169] In another possible arrangement, the first state, second state, and plurality of states therebetween may be controlled in a manner responsive to sensor data indicative of the state of the lower region 13 provided by one or more sensors in or near the lower region 13.

[0170] In another possible arrangement, the first state, second state, and plurality of states therebetween may be controlled remotely by a user using a handheld wireless transmitting device and a wireless receiving module (neither shown) of the apparatus 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material.

[0171] The arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a chute 15 (see figure 5, only part of the chute being shown in figure 4) and a panel 16 for closing an aperture 17 (figure 4) located at a lower portion of the chute 15 and a powered actuation arrangement 18 for varying the position of the panel 16 relative to an opening of the aperture 17 between the closed configuration where the panel 16 covers the opening of the aperture 17 and the open configuration where the panel 16 does not cover the opening of the aperture 17 and any of the plurality of configurations therebetween.

[0172] The panel 16 is movably mounted on the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material. In particular, the panel 16 is hingedly movably mounted on the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material.

[0173] The panel 16 is movably mounted on an upper portion of the chute 15.

[0174] The panel 16 is movably mounted on an upper portion of the chute 16 via a supporting arrangement 19 extending between and securable to opposing upper wall portions of the chute 16.

[0175] The powered actuation arrangement 18 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises two powered actuators mounted outside opposing side walls of the chute 16 (only one 18 is shown in figures 3, 4, and 5).

[0176] The powered actuation arrangement 18 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises at least one length adjustable actuator 18, such as at least one length adjustable mechanical actuator and / or at least one length adjustable hydraulic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable pneumatic actuator and / or at least one length adjustable electromechanical actuator.

[0177] The powered actuation arrangement 18 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises at least one linear actuator 18, such as at least one linear mechanical actuator and / or at least one linear hydraulic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear pneumatic actuator (cylinder) and / or at least one linear electromechanical actuator.

[0178] The at least one actuator 20 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material is mounted between the chute 15 and the panel 16.

[0179] The at least one actuator 20 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material is hingedly mounted between the chute 15 and the panel 16.

[0180] The at least one actuator 20 of the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material is hingedly mounted to both the chute 15 and the panel 16.

[0181] The powered actuation arrangement for varying the position of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 comprises two length adjustable actuators, one of which 10 is visible in the drawings.

[0182] The actuators 10 for varying the position of the rotatable magnetic drum 5 are locatable at two lateral side portions of the rotatable magnetic drum 5.

[0183] Components 36 are non-movable relative to an axis of rotation of the drum 5 in use. The actuators 10 are mountable between drum 5 and non-movable components 38 of the support arrangement. Non-movable components 38 are the fixed position supporting brackets 38 later described of the fixed position supporting arrangement.

[0184] The actuators 10 are linear actuators 10.

[0185] The material handling apparatus is locatable via the supporting assembly in a magnetic separation assembly. For example, the supporting assembly comprises components 36, 38 which comprise two laterally located drum mounting brackets 36 and two laterally located fixed position supporting brackets 38. The fixed position supporting brackets 38 may be formed in one piece with a larger frame of a magnetic separation assembly or may be secured on a larger frame of a magnetic separation assembly such as a mobile magnetic separation assembly (1 , figures 1 and 2) or part thereof (figure 15 and 16).

[0186] The support arrangement comprises a drum bracket arrangement comprising a drum mounting bracket 36 for supporting a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum 5, wherein the powered actuation arrangement being operable to cause relative movement between the drum bracket arrangement and one or more components of the support arrangement.

[0187] The drum mounting brackets 36 are the components non-movable relative to an axis of rotation of the drum.

[0188] There is also provided a magnetic arrangement adjusting arrangement (figures 11 , 12, 13) for adjusting the position of a magnetic arrangement within rotatable magnetic drum 5 relative to an interior-facing surface of the rotatable magnetic drum 5. The magnetic arrangement refers to an arrangement of magnets within drum 5. The arrangement of magnets may be permanent or electromagnets, including a magnetic arrangement permitting agitation. The magnetic arrangement adjusting arrangement is suitable for causing movement of the arrangement of magnets in response to movement of one or more components of the magnetic arrangement adjusting arrangement. The one or more components suitable for causing movement of the magnetic arrangement comprises an adjusting component in the form of lever 22 securable to form a pivot 26 aligned with an axis of the rotatable magnetic drum 5. Movement of the lever 22 actuates movement of the magnetic arrangement within the rotatable magnetic drum 5 by causing rotation within the drum 5 of a support, such as a tubular support, which mounts the magnetic arrangement within the drum 5. The lever 22 comprises a plurality of arrangements in the form of three through holes one of which is labelled 28 for receiving mechanical connections of an arrangement for actuating rotation of the lever 22 about the pivot 26 in use. In the embodiment depicted in figures 11 to 13 the arrangement for actuating rotation of lever 22 is a turnbuckle 30. In the embodiment shown, turnbuckle 30 is secured in one of the through holes of the lever 22, however an arrangement for actuating rotation of lever 22 may be secured in any of the through holes 28. Each of the through holes 28 for receiving mechanical connections for actuating rotation of the lever 22 about the pivot 26 are located at a plurality of different radial directions on the lever 22 when viewed from a direction along the axis of the rotatable magnetic drum (figure 12) when the lever 22 is secured as part of the pivot 26 as shown. By this is meant that separate lines drawn from the centre of pivot 26 to the centre of each of the through holes 28 would be disposed at an angle to each other when viewed as in figure 13.

[0189] The lever 22 comprises four limbs arranged as a cruciform. Three of the four limbs comprise through holes 28 for receiving mechanical connections of the turnbuckle 30, wherein the three limbs comprising the through holes 28 extend in different radial directions relative to the pivot 26. One of the three limbs comprising through holes 28 extends in a radial direction relative to the pivot 26 and two of the limbs comprising through holes 28 for receiving mechanical connections of the turnbuckle 30 extend laterally in opposite directions perpendicular with the radial direction in which the one limb extending in the radial direction extends, i.e., in tangential directions.

[0190] The lever 22 is in the form of a plate 22 (see figures 11 and 12 which should thickness of flat plate lever 22).

[0191] The lever 22 is elongate and the limbs with through holes 28 are located towards one end of the lever 22 opposite the pivot 26. Lever 22 is approximately as long as the drum 5 measured from the pivot 26 to each of the through holes 28.

[0192] The pivot 26 is formed at an end of a portion of the lever 22 which tapers outwardly from a proximal portion of the lever 22 towards the pivot 26.

[0193] In the arrangement of the movable magnetic drum described previously, it is necessary for the turnbuckle 30 to be mounted on the movable part of the drum support assembly, which is achieved by turnbuckle mounting bracket 34 in the depicted embodiment which is securable to the drum mounting bracket 36.

[0194] One embodiment of the present invention would involve a mobile magnetic separation machine 1 comprising a feeder and magnetic drum separator which is movable longitudinally towards and away from the feeder. When there are no oversized material pieces in the feeder, the magnetic drum 5 may be located at a position close to the output end of the material delivery arrangement such that the minimum separation between the outer surface of the drum and the feeder output is small. When there is detected an oversized piece of material in the feeder, the magnetic drum 5 can be moved longitudinally away from the feeder by the powered actuation arrangement 10 and the drum supporting arrangement 36, 38 so as to increase the distance between the outer surface of the drum and the feeder. The oversized piece of material then falls from the feeder to the arrangement 6 for collecting non-ferrous material. From there the oversized material may be conveyed along inclined conveyor 7 or may, depending on the size of the material roll down the inclined conveyor towards the arrangement 12 for permitting removal of large, trapped material (chute) which may be closed or open as previously described. Oversized material pieces can then be received from the chute exit and further processed as required. If the chute panel 16 is open, oversized material pieces may fall out of the chute 12 as and when the oversized material pieces arrive at the chute 12, but the chute 12 being closed allows the oversized material pieces to be contained in the chute and withdrawn in batches. This may be particularly advantageous where the exit of the chute is not always located over a suitable arrangement for receiving the oversized pieces of material so that the mobile magnetic separation machine 1 may be moved, or an arrangement for receiving the oversized pieces of material may be moved, under the exit of the chute only when oversized material pieces have accumulated in the chute.

[0195] The skilled person will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

[0196] It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application. In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

[0197] The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

[0198] The skilled person will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

[0199] It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

[0200] In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

[0201] The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A material handling apparatus for the separation of material comprising a magnetic separation arrangement locatable at an output of a delivery means for delivering an unseparated material stream to the magnetic separation arrangement, wherein the magnetic separation arrangement comprises a rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a powered actuation means and a support means for laterally and / or longitudinally movably supporting the rotatable magnetic drum, the powered actuation means causing relative movement between the support means and the rotatable magnetic drum.

2. A material handling apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the support means comprises a support structure having two or more components movable relative to each other for allowing the rotatable magnetic drum to move for opening and closing a gap between the delivery means and the rotatable magnetic drum.

3. A material handling apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the powered actuation means is locatable at two lateral side portions of the magnetic separation arrangement.

4. A material handling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the components movable relative to each other for allowing the rotatable magnetic drum to move laterally and / or longitudinally are non-movable relative to an axis of rotation of the drum in use.

5. A material handling apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the powered actuation means is mountable between the rotatable magnetic drum and one or more nonmovable components of the support means.

6. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the powered actuation means comprises at least one length adjustable actuator.

7. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the powered actuation means comprises at least one linear actuator.

8. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the support means comprises a drum bracket means for supporting a shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the powered actuation means being operable to cause relative movement between the drum bracket means and one or more components of the support means.

9. A material handling apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the drum bracket means is suitable for mounting the rotatable magnetic drum at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum.

10. A material handling apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the drum bracket means comprises two drum mounting brackets, the two drum mounting brackets being locatable at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum for supporting the shaft of the rotatable magnetic drum.

11. A material handling apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the support means comprises a fixed position supporting means being suitable for supporting the drum bracket means at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum.

12. A material handling apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the support means comprises the fixed position support means securable in a fixed position relative to an unseparated material stream delivery means, wherein the powered actuation means being operable to cause relative movement between the rotatable magnetic drum and the fixed position support means.

13. A material handling apparatus according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the fixed position supporting means comprises two fixed position supporting brackets locatable at two lateral sides of the rotatable magnetic drum.

14. A material handling apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the two fixed position supporting brackets each comprise a base portion for movably supporting one or more components of the support means non-movable relative to an axis of rotation of the drum in use.

15. A material handling apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the two fixed position supporting brackets each comprise a base portion for slidably supporting one or more components of the support means non-movably secured to the rotatable magnetic drum in use.

16. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the fixed position supporting means is securable on a framework of a mobile magnetic separation machine.

17. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the material handling apparatus comprises a guide means for guiding the relative movement of the rotatable magnetic drum and the support means.

18. A material handling apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the guide means comprises a rail formed in a first component of the support means and a channel formed in a second component of the support means, wherein the first and second components are movable relative to one another along a path defined by the guide means.

19. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising a magnetic arrangement adjusting means for adjusting the position of a magnetic arrangement within the rotatable magnetic drum relative to the support means, wherein the magnetic arrangement adjusting means is suitable for causing movement of the magnetic arrangement in response to movement of one or more components of the magnetic arrangment adjusting means, the magnetic arrangement adjusting means comprises an adjusting component securable at a pivot means aligned with an axis of the rotatable magnetic drum for actuating movement of the magnetic arrangement within the rotatable magnetic drum, wherein the adjusting componentcomprises a plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot in use, wherein each of the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot means on the adjusting component are located at a plurality of different angular positions on the adjusting component when viewed from a direction along the axis of the rotatable magnetic drum when the adjusting component is secured as part of the pivot in use.

20. A material handling apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the adjusting component comprises a plurality of limbs comprising the means for receiving mechanical connections of the means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component, wherein two or more of the limbs comprising the means for receiving mechanical connections extend in different radial directions relative to the pivot means.

21. A material handling apparatus according to claim 20, wherein one of the plurality of limbs comprising the means for receiving mechanical connections of the means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component extends in a radial direction relative to the pivot means and wherein one or more of the plurality of limbs extend in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction in which the one limb extending in the radial direction extends.

22. A material handling apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the one or more limbs extending in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction extend in a tangential direction perpendicular to the radial direction in which one of the limbs extends.

23. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 21 or 22, wherein the one or more of the plurality of limbs extending in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction comprise two of the plurality of limbs extending laterally in respect of the adjusting component in a direction forming an angle with the radial direction in which one of the limbs extends.

24. A material handling apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the adjusting component comprises a cruciform component comprising four limbs, one of which is the limb which extends in a radial direction, another two of which are the limbs extending laterally, and a fourth of the four limbs of the cruciform is a limb comprising the pivot means.

25. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the adjusting component comprises a plate component comprising the pivot means and the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections.

26. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the adjusting component comprises a one-piece component comprising the pivot means and the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections.

27. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 26, wherein the plurality of means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuatingrotation of the adjusting component about the pivot means are through holes formed in the adjusting component28. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 27, wherein the adjusting component is elongate and wherein the means for receiving mechanical connections are located at an opposite distal end portion of the adjusting component relative to the pivot means.

29. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 28, wherein the adjusting component is approximately as long as the radius of a typical rotatable magnetic drum measured from the pivot means to the means for receiving mechanical connections of a means for actuating rotation of the adjusting component about the pivot in use.

30. A material handling apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising a means for permitting removal of large, trapped material from a lower upstream portion of an inclined portion of a conveyor, wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a first configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and a second configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted.

31. A material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the first configuration is a closed configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is prevented and the second configuration is an open configuration in which removal of large, trapped material is permitted.

32. A material handling apparatus according to claim 30 or 31 , wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises one or more components for forming a chute.

33. A material handling apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a panel for closing an aperture defined between one or more perimeter edge surface portions of the panel and one or more internally facing surface portions of the chute.

34. A material handling apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the means for permitting removal of large, trapped material comprises a powered actuation means for varying the position of the panel relative to an opening of the aperture between the closed configuration where the panel covers the opening of the aperture and the open configuration where the panel does not cover the opening of the aperture.

35. A material handling apparatus according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the panel is movably mountable on one or more components of the chute.

36. A material handling apparatus according to claim 35, wherein the panel is hingedly movably mountable on one or more components of the chute.

37. A material handling apparatus according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the panel is movably mountable on an upper portion of the chute via a supporting means extending between opposing upper wall portions of the chute.

38. A material handling apparatus according to any of claims 30 to 37, wherein the powered actuation means comprises at least one powered actuator mountable on an exterior facing surface of the one or more components for forming the chute.

39. A material handling apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the at least one powered actuator is hingedly mounted to a first actuator securing means secured to the chute and hingedly mounted to a second actuator securing means component connected to the panel.

40. A material handling apparatus according to any of claims 30 to 39, wherein the components for forming the chute comprise one or more side wall-forming components for containing large, trapped material between opposite edge portions of the inclined conveyor in use, the one or more of the side wall-forming components being securable in line with a first side edge portion of the inclined conveyor and one or more of the side wall-forming components being securable in line with a second side edge portion of the inclined conveyor opposite the first side edge portion of the inclined conveyor.

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