Abstract
One of the possible magnetic separation processes, the highgradient magnetic separation, is analysed. Mathematical model of separation for two alternative constructions, namely deflecting and matrix separators, is presented. The model enables the efficiency of separation to be analysed as a function of selected parameters. The performance of the matrix separator, as well as the phenomena that take place during the matrix replacement are described. Computed values of the magnetic force acting on the matrix that moves in the magnetic field are presented. A laboratory superconducting magnetic separator is described.