CM PML-10 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Strengths as well as weaknesses of neodymium 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% (in laboratory conditions),
• They have excellent resistance to weakening of magnetic properties as a result of external magnetic sources,
• The use of an shiny coating of noble metals (nickel, gold, silver) causes the element to present itself better,
• Magnetic induction on the surface of the magnet remains very high,
• Through (appropriate) combination of ingredients, they can achieve high thermal strength, enabling functioning at temperatures approaching 230°C and above...
• Possibility of detailed modeling and optimizing to specific requirements,
• Universal use in innovative solutions – they serve a role in mass storage devices, electric motors, advanced medical instruments, and technologically advanced constructions.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer strong magnetic field in tiny dimensions, which allows their use in compact constructions

Disadvantages of NdFeB magnets:

• They are prone to damage upon heavy impacts. To avoid cracks, it is worth protecting magnets using a steel holder. Such protection not only protects the magnet but also increases its resistance to damage
• We warn that neodymium magnets can lose their strength at high temperatures. To prevent this, we recommend our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• They oxidize in a humid environment. For use outdoors we advise using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• We suggest cover - magnetic mount, due to difficulties in producing nuts inside the magnet and complex forms.
• Possible danger to health – tiny shards of magnets are risky, when accidentally swallowed, which becomes key in the context of child safety. Additionally, tiny parts of these magnets can be problematic in diagnostics medical in case of swallowing.
• High unit price – neodymium magnets cost more than other types of magnets (e.g. ferrite), which increases costs of application in large quantities

Maximum lifting force for a neodymium magnet – what contributes to it?

The load parameter shown concerns the maximum value, measured under laboratory conditions, specifically:

• with the application of a yoke made of low-carbon steel, ensuring full magnetic saturation
• with a cross-section no less than 10 mm
• with a plane cleaned and smooth
• with total lack of distance (no impurities)
• for force applied at a right angle (pull-off, not shear)
• at conditions approx. 20°C

Practical aspects of lifting capacity – factors

Real force is influenced by specific conditions, such as (from priority):

• Air gap (betwixt the magnet and the metal), as even a microscopic clearance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause a reduction in force by up to 50% (this also applies to paint, rust or dirt).
• Force direction – declared lifting capacity refers to pulling vertically. When applying parallel force, the magnet holds significantly lower power (often 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 type – the best choice is pure iron steel. Stainless steels may generate lower lifting capacity.
• Surface structure – the smoother and more polished the plate, the better the adhesion and higher the lifting capacity. Roughness acts like micro-gaps.
• Thermal factor – hot environment weakens magnetic field. Exceeding the limit temperature can permanently demagnetize the magnet.

* Lifting capacity testing was carried out on a smooth plate of optimal thickness, under a perpendicular pulling force, however under parallel forces the load capacity is reduced by as much as 5 times. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet and the plate reduces the load capacity.