CM PML-6 / N45 - magnetic gripper

Strengths as well as weaknesses of rare earth magnets.

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

• They do not lose magnetism, even after approximately ten years – the reduction in strength is only ~1% (theoretically),
• They show high resistance to demagnetization induced by external field influence,
• By using a reflective coating of gold, the element acquires an modern look,
• Neodymium magnets ensure maximum magnetic induction on a contact point, which allows for strong attraction,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they can operate (depending on the form) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Due to the option of flexible molding and adaptation to custom requirements, neodymium magnets can be manufactured in a broad palette of geometric configurations, which expands the range of possible applications,
• Key role in modern technologies – they are utilized in hard drives, electromotive mechanisms, medical equipment, also modern systems.
• Compactness – despite small sizes they generate large force, making them ideal for precision applications

Disadvantages of neodymium magnets:

• At strong impacts they can break, therefore we advise placing them in steel cases. A metal housing provides additional protection against damage and increases the magnet's durability.
• NdFeB magnets lose strength when exposed to high temperatures. After reaching 80°C, many of them experience permanent drop of power (a factor is the shape as well as 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 stable to moisture, when using outdoors
• Due to limitations in creating nuts and complicated forms in magnets, we propose using cover - magnetic mechanism.
• Possible danger related to microscopic parts of magnets pose a threat, in case of ingestion, which becomes key in the context of child safety. It is also worth noting that small components of these magnets are able to complicate diagnosis medical after entering the body.
• Due to neodymium price, their price is higher than average,

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

Information about lifting capacity was defined for optimal configuration, including:

• with the application of a sheet made of low-carbon steel, ensuring maximum field concentration
• whose thickness equals approx. 10 mm
• with a plane free of scratches
• under conditions of gap-free contact (metal-to-metal)
• for force acting at a right angle (in the magnet axis)
• at room temperature

What influences lifting capacity in practice

It is worth knowing that the working load may be lower subject to the following factors, starting with the most relevant:

• Air gap (betwixt the magnet and the metal), because even a very small distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause a drastic drop in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to varnish, corrosion or dirt).
• Force direction – note that the magnet holds strongest perpendicularly. Under sliding down, the holding force drops drastically, often to levels of 20-30% of the maximum value.
• Substrate thickness – for full efficiency, the steel must be adequately massive. Paper-thin metal limits the attraction force (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Material composition – not every steel reacts the same. Alloy additives worsen the attraction effect.
• Surface structure – the more even the surface, the better the adhesion and stronger the hold. Roughness creates an air distance.
• Thermal environment – heating the magnet causes a temporary drop of induction. 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 vertically applied force, however under parallel forces the lifting capacity is smaller. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet and the plate lowers the holding force.