Towable Electromagnetic Sweepers for Airport Runways

Airport Foreign Object Debris (FOD) is a serious issue facing the aerospace and aviation industry. FOD results in an estimated cost of $4 billion annually for maintenance and downtime. FOD is any type of object in an airport setting that has the capacity to cause personal injury or damage to aircraft. Metal contaminants on the runway can result in punctured tires and airframes, the chipping of propeller blades, and even engine failure. During takeoff, the debris on the runaway can be propelled by the jet blast, resulting in the injury of aircraft personnel. Successfully removing harmful metal debris from an airport runway requires creative solutions. Bunting has custom-built and engineered three large and durable Towable Electromagnetic Sweepers (model EMRS24) for removing hazardous ferrous metal debris from an Indonesian airport runway. 

Bunting stands as a premier global entity in the realm of magnetic separators, boasting expertise in eddy current separators, metal detectors, and electrostatic separators. Its global manufacturing facilities reside in Newton, Kansas in the United States. The Bunting European manufacturing facilities are in Redditch, just outside Birmingham, and Berkhamsted, both in the United Kingdom.

The Towable Electromagnetic Sweeper is engineered with a specific aim: to remove ferrous debris from a variety of surfaces including airport runways, roads, shipping ports, expansive car parks, and sizable warehouses or manufacturing facilities. Its functionality hinges on an intricately crafted electromagnetic block, meticulously designed to generate a robust magnetic field capable of efficiently lifting and retaining both large and small ferrous metals.

Bunting Towable Electromagnetic Sweepers were Custom-Built for an Indonesian Airport

During operation, the Towable Electromagnetic Sweeper seamlessly affixes to the rear of a vehicle, whether it’s a service vehicle or SUV. Supported by two sturdy wheels and featuring a user-friendly tow hitch, the primary magnetic block ensures a quick and secure connection. As the sweeper functions, it efficiently lifts ferrous metal debris from the ground onto its magnetic surface. Positioned within the vehicle cab for easy access, controls empower the operator to activate or deactivate the magnet, enabling the swift release of any trapped ferrous metal debris.

Towable Electromagnetic Sweepers are designed for outdoor use, ideal for towing at speeds ranging from 5 to 6 mph. Available in a variety of widths, ranging from 1200mm to 2440mm, these sweepers can also be tailored to meet specific requirements through custom designs.

The trio of Electromagnetic Sweepers commissioned for Indonesia boasts a magnetic width of 2440mm each, weighing approximately 1500 kg. Powering the electromagnet is a 220VAC generator, coupled with a gasoline-driven Honda engine nestled within a protective framework. The start and stop push button feature auto-reverse functionality, facilitating the lifting and release of captured tramp ferrous metal. A rotating flash beacon atop the control panel serves as a visual indicator of the magnet’s operational status.

“We design and build Towable Electromagnetic Sweepers for airports around the world,” says Phil Tree, Bunting’s Technical Sales Manager. “This is a practical method of clearing runways of ferrous metal detritus and preventing dame to aircraft tires.”

Contact us today to discuss your application or request a quote.