Magnetic separators use high-strength magnets to capture and remove ferrous particles and parts (sometimes known as tramp metal) from gravel, sand, powders, pellets, wood chips, food products, and other solid materials in bulk conveying applications. This helps prevent the ferrous particles and parts from contaminating the product, getting into machinery downstream and causing damage, and potentially creating a spark that could ignite explosive materials. Separators commonly use ceramic or rare earth magnets. Ceramic magnets can effectively capture large ferrous contaminants such as nuts, bolts, or staples. Rare earth magnets are capable of capturing fine or weakly magnetic material such as rust or scale.