With the depleting iron reserves and difficult market conditions, precision in separation efficiency is of utmost importance. Classical local control options are predominant in the industry, but their inability to adjust to resolve application problems of interest has furthered the need of developing and implementing continuous control methodologies.This paper highlights the recent development in control of Outotec SLon vertically pulsating high gradient magnetic separator (VPHGMS) including programmable logic controllers (PLC) coupled with distributed control system (DCS), on-site human-machine interface (HMI) control panel, advanced process control, continuous online sampling using Courier 8 and additional modernisation packages including level control and cooling monitoring. These modern control options result in improved efficiencies, promote safer operation and at the same time reduce operational manpower needs.CITATION:Jain, R, Sherrell, I and Jansson, P, 2017. Automation for efficient separation with the Outotec SLon vertically pulsating high gradient magnetic separator, in Proceedings Iron Ore 2017, pp 211-214 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).