CM PML-10 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Strengths as well as weaknesses of neodymium magnets.

In addition to their long-term stability, neodymium magnets provide the following advantages:

• Their power remains stable, and after approximately ten years it decreases only by ~1% (theoretically),
• Neodymium magnets are extremely resistant to magnetic field loss caused by magnetic disturbances,
• The use of an metallic layer of noble metals (nickel, gold, silver) causes the element to look better,
• The surface of neodymium magnets generates a concentrated magnetic field – this is one of their assets,
• Due to their durability and thermal resistance, neodymium magnets can operate (depending on the form) even at high temperatures reaching 230°C or more...
• Thanks to freedom in forming and the capacity to modify to complex applications,
• Key role in advanced technology sectors – they serve a role in hard drives, electric motors, precision medical tools, and other advanced devices.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer impressive pulling force in tiny dimensions, which allows their use in small systems

Problematic aspects of neodymium magnets and ways of using them

• To avoid cracks under impact, we suggest using special steel holders. Such a solution protects the magnet and simultaneously increases its durability.
• We warn that neodymium magnets can lose their strength at high temperatures. To prevent this, we suggest our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• They oxidize in a humid environment - during use outdoors we suggest using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• Due to limitations in realizing threads and complex forms in magnets, we recommend using cover - magnetic holder.
• Health risk related to microscopic parts of magnets pose a threat, in case of ingestion, which becomes key in the context of child health protection. Additionally, small elements of these products are able to be problematic in diagnostics medical after entering the body.
• Due to neodymium price, their price is relatively high,

Optimal lifting capacity of a neodymium magnet – what contributes to it?

Breakaway force was determined for the most favorable conditions, including:

• with the contact of a sheet made of special test steel, ensuring maximum field concentration
• whose thickness reaches at least 10 mm
• with an polished contact surface
• under conditions of no distance (metal-to-metal)
• under axial application of breakaway force (90-degree angle)
• at standard ambient temperature

Determinants of lifting force in real conditions

Holding efficiency is influenced by working environment parameters, including (from priority):

• Distance (between the magnet and the metal), as even a microscopic clearance (e.g. 0.5 mm) leads to a drastic drop in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to paint, rust or dirt).
• Loading method – catalog parameter refers to pulling vertically. When attempting to slide, the magnet holds much less (typically approx. 20-30% of nominal force).
• Wall thickness – thin material does not allow full use of the magnet. Magnetic flux penetrates through instead of generating force.
• Material composition – not every steel reacts the same. Alloy additives weaken the attraction effect.
• Plate texture – ground elements ensure maximum contact, which improves field saturation. Rough surfaces weaken the grip.
• Temperature influence – high temperature reduces magnetic field. Too high temperature can permanently demagnetize the magnet.

* Lifting capacity was measured using a steel plate with a smooth surface of suitable thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular detachment force, however under attempts to slide the magnet the holding force is lower. In addition, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate reduces the load capacity.