CM PML-10 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Advantages and disadvantages of neodymium magnets.

Besides their high retention, neodymium magnets are valued for these benefits:

• They have stable power, and over nearly 10 years their attraction force decreases symbolically – ~1% (in testing),
• Neodymium magnets prove to be exceptionally resistant to loss of magnetic properties caused by magnetic disturbances,
• The use of an metallic layer of noble metals (nickel, gold, silver) causes the element to have aesthetics,
• They are known for high magnetic induction at the operating surface, which improves attraction properties,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they can operate (depending on the form) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Possibility of exact modeling as well as adapting to precise conditions,
• Key role in future technologies – they find application in data components, electric motors, diagnostic systems, and multitasking production systems.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer strong magnetic field in tiny dimensions, which makes them useful in small systems

Disadvantages of NdFeB magnets:

• Brittleness is one of their disadvantages. Upon intense impact they can fracture. We advise keeping them in a strong case, which not only protects them against impacts but also increases their durability
• We warn that neodymium magnets can lose their power at high temperatures. To prevent this, we recommend our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• When exposed to humidity, magnets usually rust. For applications outside, it is recommended to use protective magnets, such as magnets in rubber or plastics, which secure oxidation as well as corrosion.
• Limited ability of creating nuts in the magnet and complex forms - recommended is casing - mounting mechanism.
• Possible danger related to microscopic parts of magnets can be dangerous, when accidentally swallowed, which is particularly important in the aspect of protecting the youngest. It is also worth noting that small elements of these products can complicate diagnosis medical after entering the body.
• With mass production the cost of neodymium magnets can be a barrier,

Maximum lifting force for a neodymium magnet – what affects it?

The force parameter is a result of laboratory testing executed under standard conditions:

• using a base made of high-permeability steel, acting as a ideal flux conductor
• possessing a massiveness of at least 10 mm to avoid saturation
• characterized by even structure
• under conditions of gap-free contact (metal-to-metal)
• during detachment in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface
• at temperature approx. 20 degrees Celsius

Practical aspects of lifting capacity – factors

Real force is affected by specific conditions, mainly (from priority):

• Gap between surfaces – even a fraction of a millimeter of distance (caused e.g. by varnish or dirt) significantly weakens the pulling force, often by half at just 0.5 mm.
• Loading method – declared lifting capacity refers to pulling vertically. When attempting to slide, the magnet holds much less (typically approx. 20-30% of maximum force).
• Plate thickness – insufficiently thick plate does not close the flux, causing part of the power to be lost into the air.
• Material composition – different alloys attracts identically. Alloy additives weaken the interaction with the magnet.
• Smoothness – ideal contact is obtained only on polished steel. Any scratches and bumps create air cushions, reducing force.
• Heat – NdFeB sinters have a negative temperature coefficient. When it is hot they are weaker, and in frost they can be stronger (up to a certain limit).

* Holding force was tested on a smooth steel plate of 20 mm thickness, when the force acted perpendicularly, in contrast under shearing force the load capacity is reduced by as much as fivefold. Additionally, even a small distance {between} the magnet and the plate lowers the lifting capacity.