CM PML-10 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Strengths and weaknesses of rare earth magnets.

Besides their remarkable strength, neodymium magnets offer the following advantages:

• They virtually do not lose power, because even after 10 years the decline in efficiency is only ~1% (based on calculations),
• They show high resistance to demagnetization induced by presence of other magnetic fields,
• A magnet with a shiny nickel surface has an effective appearance,
• The surface of neodymium magnets generates a powerful magnetic field – this is a distinguishing feature,
• Through (appropriate) combination of ingredients, they can achieve high thermal strength, allowing for operation at temperatures approaching 230°C and above...
• Thanks to freedom in constructing and the ability to customize to client solutions,
• Wide application in electronics industry – they are used in mass storage devices, electric drive systems, advanced medical instruments, as well as modern systems.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer impressive pulling force in compact dimensions, which makes them useful in small systems

Disadvantages of NdFeB magnets:

• To avoid cracks under impact, we suggest using special steel holders. Such a solution secures the magnet and simultaneously improves its durability.
• Neodymium magnets lose their power under the influence of heating. As soon as 80°C is exceeded, many of them start losing their power. Therefore, we recommend our special magnets marked [AH], which maintain durability even at temperatures up to 230°C
• When exposed to humidity, magnets usually rust. For applications outside, it is recommended to use protective magnets, such as those in rubber or plastics, which secure oxidation and corrosion.
• Due to limitations in producing nuts and complex shapes in magnets, we propose using casing - magnetic mechanism.
• Health risk related to microscopic parts of magnets are risky, if swallowed, which is particularly important in the aspect of protecting the youngest. Additionally, small components of these magnets can disrupt the diagnostic process medical after entering the body.
• Due to expensive raw materials, their price is higher than average,

Detachment force of the magnet in optimal conditions – what affects it?

Magnet power is the result of a measurement for the most favorable conditions, assuming:

• on a plate made of mild steel, effectively closing the magnetic field
• possessing a thickness of at least 10 mm to ensure full flux closure
• characterized by smoothness
• without any insulating layer between the magnet and steel
• during pulling in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface
• at temperature room level

Determinants of practical lifting force of a magnet

In real-world applications, the actual lifting capacity depends on many variables, ranked from crucial:

• Distance – existence of any layer (rust, dirt, air) acts as an insulator, which lowers capacity steeply (even by 50% at 0.5 mm).
• Loading method – declared lifting capacity refers to detachment vertically. When applying parallel force, the magnet holds much less (often approx. 20-30% of maximum force).
• Element thickness – to utilize 100% power, the steel must be adequately massive. Thin sheet limits the lifting capacity (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Metal type – different alloys reacts the same. Alloy additives worsen the interaction with the magnet.
• Surface structure – the smoother and more polished the surface, the larger the contact zone and higher the lifting capacity. Unevenness creates an air distance.
• Thermal environment – temperature increase results in weakening of force. Check the maximum operating temperature for a given model.

* Lifting capacity was determined by applying a smooth steel plate of suitable thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular detachment force, whereas under parallel forces the lifting capacity is smaller. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet and the plate decreases the holding force.