| abstract |
A magnetic assembly for removing metallic particles from a closed pressurized flow path of lubricating oil, such as is used in engines, comprised of a magnetic member positioned against a canister of a typical engine oil filter. A ferrous material flux amplifier band is positioned against the exterior surface of the magnetic member. Alternatively, the magnetic member can be mounted on the inside surface of the canister with the canister itself acting as a flux amplifier. The magnetic member is magnetized so that it has alternating regions of polarity on both its inside and outside surfaces. The flux amplifier band covers substantially the entire outer surface of the magnetic member with it functioning to increase the intensity of the magnetic field inside the canister generated from the magnetic member. The thickness of the flux amplifier must be greater than the thickness of the canister and preferably at least two times its thickness so as to contain and direct the magnetic flux. The magnetic member can be constructed of a plurality of separate magnets arranged in a side-by-side abutting manner, or could be formed from an integral sheet of material. The surface of the magnetic member that is in direct contact with the canister precisely conforms to the exterior configuration of the canister. |