Theory of high-gradient magnetic filter performance

A unique general model for high-gradient magnetic filters is presented. The functional dependence of the filter performance on the system's physical and geometrical parameters is derived. The derived theoretical expression makes it possible to explain both of the two different, apparently opposite, experimental results reported in the literature. The new quality factor does not include the suspension viscosity, but instead depends on the suspension density, which leads to the application of the formula for a larger class of filtration media including liquids, gases, and vapors.