| Formwork layout | Table or bed dimensions, side-form length, magnet spacing, and the number of magnets per form section. | The layout determines how loads are distributed and whether magnets fit around corners, recesses, and embedded items. | Prepare a dimensioned drawing and confirm the magnet’s footprint, height, and access for release. |
| Concrete pressure and separation load | Form height, concrete placement rate, mix properties, vibration method, and the design load acting to lift or move each side form. | Required holding capacity depends on the actual loads and load path; element size alone is not enough to select a magnet. | Have the formwork load and safety requirements checked by a qualified engineer. Do not treat a catalogue pull-force figure as a complete design calculation. |
| Required holding force | Calculated design demand per magnet, magnet quantity, and the expected direction of loading. | Select capacity based on the complete assembly and real contact conditions, with the specified safety margin. | Confirm how the rated force was measured. Air gaps, uneven contact, coatings, and debris can reduce effective holding performance. |
| Formwork material and contact surface | Steel grade and thickness, surface flatness, paint or coating, welds, and any local gaps beneath the magnet. | Magnetic holding performance depends on a suitable ferromagnetic contact surface and close, clean contact. | Match the magnet to the actual formwork steel and surface condition; verify performance on a representative setup. |
| Placement accuracy and geometry | Required edge position, dimensional tolerances, form profiles, and clearance around inserts or reinforcement. | The magnet’s base and locating features should hold the form in its intended position without obstructing the casting layout. | Check the fit on the production bed, including corner access, stop positions, and the space needed for release tools if applicable. |
| Vibration and impact | Internal or external vibration, vibration duration, nearby impact, and movement during concrete placement. | Repeated vibration can expose weak positioning, poor contact, or inadequate restraint; magnetic force should not be assumed to prevent every form of movement. | Assess the full restraint arrangement and monitor a trial pour under the intended vibration conditions. |
| Temperature and exposure | Ambient and contact temperatures, hot formwork, direct sunlight, moisture, and cleaning chemicals. | Allowable temperature and environmental resistance vary by magnet construction and protective materials. | Obtain the specific operating limits and care instructions for the selected model; avoid relying on a generic temperature rating. |
| Production cycle and handling | Castings per shift, setup frequency, operator access, lifting or repositioning method, and release time. | Frequent changeovers increase the importance of ergonomic handling, repeatable placement, and a practical release method. | Review the workflow with operators and verify that the magnet can be positioned, activated, released, and stored safely. |
| Release mechanism and access | Available clearance, release direction, tool access, and whether the form configuration limits access to the switch or lever. | A suitable release mechanism helps make demoulding controlled and repeatable without prying against vulnerable surfaces. | Test release on the actual form layout and follow the manufacturer’s operating procedure. |
| Cleaning and maintenance | Concrete residue, steel filings, dust, water exposure, cleaning frequency, and storage conditions. | Debris or damage at the contact face can interfere with seating and reduce reliable contact over time. | Set an inspection and cleaning routine. Check contact faces, switches, fasteners, and housings for wear or damage. |
| Trial and acceptance criteria | Representative formwork, operating sequence, required dimensional tolerances, and inspection records. | A controlled trial helps confirm fit, handling, positioning, and performance under the project’s actual conditions. | Document the trial results and approve the final arrangement before routine production. |