The magnetic element, consisting of a group of magnetic tubes, is arranged to cause the material flow entering the body to impinge against the tubes and filter through the magnetic field, completely covering the open area. This arrangement takes advantage of the material change in direction and the difference in inertia between the unwanted iron and the material carrying it. The magnetic circuit is designed so the entrapped iron will have a tendency to work around and cling to the down–stream side of the tubes. This action prevents iron particles from being washed off by the continuous flow of material.