CM PML-3 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Strengths as well as weaknesses of neodymium magnets.

In addition to their magnetic efficiency, neodymium magnets provide the following advantages:

• They do not lose power, even over nearly 10 years – the decrease in power is only ~1% (according to tests),
• They retain their magnetic properties even under external field action,
• By applying a decorative layer of gold, the element has an modern look,
• Magnets exhibit very high magnetic induction on the surface,
• Through (adequate) combination of ingredients, they can achieve high thermal resistance, enabling functioning at temperatures approaching 230°C and above...
• Thanks to the potential of flexible molding and customization to specialized needs, magnetic components can be created in a wide range of geometric configurations, which expands the range of possible applications,
• Significant place in high-tech industry – they are used in hard drives, electric motors, advanced medical instruments, also technologically advanced constructions.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer high power in tiny dimensions, which allows their use in miniature devices

Disadvantages of neodymium magnets:

• To avoid cracks upon strong impacts, we suggest using special steel holders. Such a solution protects the magnet and simultaneously increases its durability.
• Neodymium magnets lose strength when exposed to high temperatures. After reaching 80°C, many of them experience permanent weakening of strength (a factor is the shape and dimensions of the magnet). We offer magnets specially adapted to work at temperatures up to 230°C marked [AH], which are extremely resistant to heat
• Due to the susceptibility of magnets to corrosion in a humid environment, we suggest using waterproof magnets made of rubber, plastic or other material immune to moisture, in case of application outdoors
• Due to limitations in creating threads and complex shapes in magnets, we propose using casing - magnetic holder.
• Health risk to health – tiny shards of magnets pose a threat, when accidentally swallowed, which becomes key in the context of child health protection. It is also worth noting that small elements of these products can complicate diagnosis medical after entering the body.
• Higher cost of purchase is one of the disadvantages compared to ceramic magnets, especially in budget applications

Maximum holding power of the magnet – what contributes to it?

Magnet power is the result of a measurement for optimal configuration, taking into account:

• on a base made of structural steel, optimally conducting the magnetic flux
• whose transverse dimension equals approx. 10 mm
• with an ideally smooth contact surface
• with total lack of distance (no impurities)
• under axial force vector (90-degree angle)
• in neutral thermal conditions

Magnet lifting force in use – key factors

During everyday use, the actual holding force is determined by several key aspects, ranked from the most important:

• Air gap (between the magnet and the plate), as even a very small distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) results in a reduction in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to varnish, rust or debris).
• Force direction – catalog parameter refers to detachment vertically. When attempting to slide, the magnet holds significantly lower power (often approx. 20-30% of nominal force).
• Substrate thickness – to utilize 100% power, the steel must be sufficiently thick. Thin sheet limits the attraction force (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Plate material – mild steel attracts best. Higher carbon content lower magnetic permeability and lifting capacity.
• Surface finish – ideal contact is obtained only on polished steel. Rough texture create air cushions, weakening the magnet.
• Thermal environment – heating the magnet causes a temporary drop of induction. Check the thermal limit for a given model.

* Lifting capacity was measured by applying a polished steel plate of optimal thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular detachment force, whereas under parallel forces the holding force is lower. Moreover, even a slight gap {between} the magnet and the plate decreases the holding force.