MPL 30x15x2 / N38 - lamellar magnet

Advantages and disadvantages of neodymium magnets.

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

• They retain attractive force for nearly ten years – the loss is just ~1% (based on simulations),
• They are extremely resistant to demagnetization induced by external magnetic fields,
• Thanks to the smooth finish, the plating of Ni-Cu-Ni, gold-plated, or silver gives an aesthetic appearance,
• The surface of neodymium magnets generates a powerful magnetic field – this is one of their assets,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they are capable of working (depending on the form) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Thanks to versatility in forming and the capacity to modify to unusual requirements,
• Fundamental importance in electronics industry – they find application in HDD drives, electromotive mechanisms, medical devices, and industrial machines.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer impressive pulling force in compact dimensions, which enables their usage in miniature devices

Disadvantages of NdFeB magnets:

• At very strong impacts they can break, therefore we recommend placing them in steel cases. A metal housing provides additional protection against damage, as well as increases the magnet's durability.
• We warn that neodymium magnets can reduce their power at high temperatures. To prevent this, we suggest our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• They rust in a humid environment - during use outdoors we suggest using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• Limited possibility of making threads in the magnet and complicated forms - recommended is cover - mounting mechanism.
• Potential hazard to health – tiny shards of magnets are risky, when accidentally swallowed, which gains importance in the aspect of protecting the youngest. Furthermore, small components of these magnets can be problematic in diagnostics medical when they are in the body.
• With budget limitations the cost of neodymium magnets can be a barrier,

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

The force parameter is a measurement result executed under standard conditions:

• with the application of a yoke made of low-carbon steel, ensuring full magnetic saturation
• whose transverse dimension equals approx. 10 mm
• characterized by even structure
• with zero gap (without coatings)
• during detachment in a direction vertical to the mounting surface
• at conditions approx. 20°C

Practical aspects of lifting capacity – factors

In practice, the actual lifting capacity is determined by a number of factors, presented from most significant:

• Clearance – the presence of any layer (paint, tape, air) acts as an insulator, which reduces capacity rapidly (even by 50% at 0.5 mm).
• Loading method – declared lifting capacity refers to pulling vertically. When attempting to slide, 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 passes through the material instead of converting into lifting capacity.
• Material type – the best choice is high-permeability steel. Hardened steels may attract less.
• Surface finish – full contact is possible only on smooth steel. Any scratches and bumps create air cushions, weakening the magnet.
• Temperature influence – hot environment weakens pulling force. Too high temperature can permanently demagnetize the magnet.

* Lifting capacity testing was performed on a smooth plate of suitable thickness, under perpendicular forces, however under attempts to slide the magnet the load capacity is reduced by as much as 5 times. In addition, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet and the plate reduces the lifting capacity.