Low-cost magnetic sweeper could save tires, enhance mobility          

A simple idea out of District 4 could help prevent flat tires — a giant magnetic sweeper bar mounted to a patrol vehicle. Best of all, the innovation could help more than just ITD employees.

See innovation to right.

“What gave me the idea was 50 or so of these,” District 4 Operations Technician DJ Price said, holding up an 8-inch nail (pictured below). “They were all over the road.”

About 100 yards down the road were the remains of several blown tires. Not only was his concern for how he could help people prevent tire damage, but also efficiently picking up metal debris from the road – a magnetic sweeper seemed logical.

“We’re already out on the road, driving slowly when we’re patrolling along the shoulder,” Price said. “That is where most of the metal chunks are.”

In May, he was approved to spend $200 on his idea and almost immediately started using the 5-foot magnet during his patrols. But the application of the magnet could be just as useful around ITD yards and shops, where hand-held magnets are usually used.

Learning by trial and error, Price said he has found the best results when mounting the magnet about two inches from the ground and traveling 5-7 mph.

Because mounting it with a chain isn’t ideal, Price and others are exploring permanent mounts that can be hoisted up and down when driving at higher speeds.

“Some guys are looking to use the hoists and mount at the back of the truck, but I’d rather pick up the screws and sharp objects before driving over them,” Price said.

Published 09-01-17