MPL 5x5x1.5 / N38 - lamellar magnet

Advantages and disadvantages of neodymium magnets NdFeB.

Besides their stability, neodymium magnets are valued for these benefits:

• Their strength is maintained, and after around 10 years, it drops only by ~1% (according to research),
• They remain magnetized despite exposure to magnetic surroundings,
• Because of the brilliant layer of nickel, the component looks aesthetically refined,
• Magnetic induction on the surface of these magnets is very strong,
• With the right combination of compounds, they reach significant thermal stability, enabling operation at or above 230°C (depending on the form),
• Thanks to the possibility in shaping and the capability to adapt to individual requirements, neodymium magnets can be created in diverse shapes and sizes, which increases their application range,
• Significant impact in new technology industries – they are utilized in hard drives, rotating machines, healthcare devices along with other advanced devices,
• Compactness – despite their small size, they generate strong force, making them ideal for precision applications

Disadvantages of neodymium magnets:

• They are prone to breaking when subjected to a powerful impact. If the magnets are exposed to physical collisions, we recommend in a protective enclosure. The steel housing, in the form of a holder, protects the magnet from damage and additionally enhances its overall resistance,
• They lose magnetic force at extreme temperatures. Most neodymium magnets experience permanent reduction in strength when heated above 80°C (depending on the form and height). However, we offer special variants with high temperature resistance that can operate up to 230°C or higher,
• They rust in a wet environment. If exposed to rain, we recommend using moisture-resistant magnets, such as those made of plastic,
• The use of a protective casing or external holder is recommended, since machining threads in neodymium magnets is not feasible,
• Safety concern due to small fragments may arise, in case of ingestion, which is important in the family environments. Moreover, minuscule fragments from these products might interfere with diagnostics after being swallowed,
• In cases of tight budgets, neodymium magnet cost is a challenge,

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

The given holding capacity of the magnet corresponds to the highest holding force, calculated in the best circumstances, that is:

• with the use of low-carbon steel plate serving as a magnetic yoke
• with a thickness of minimum 10 mm
• with a polished side
• with no separation
• with vertical force applied
• at room temperature

Practical lifting capacity: influencing factors

Practical lifting force is dependent on elements, by priority:

• Air gap between the magnet and the plate, as even a very small distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) causes a drop in lifting force of up to 50%.
• Direction of applied force, because the maximum lifting capacity is achieved under perpendicular application. The force required to slide the magnet along the plate is usually several times lower.
• Thickness of the plate, as a plate that is too thin causes part of the magnetic flux not to be used and to remain wasted in the air.
• Material of the plate, because higher carbon content lowers holding force, while higher iron content increases it. The best choice is steel with high magnetic permeability and high saturation induction.
• Surface of the plate, because the more smooth and polished it is, the better the contact and consequently the greater the magnetic saturation.
• Operating temperature, since all permanent magnets have a negative temperature coefficient. This means that at high temperatures they are weaker, while at sub-zero temperatures they become slightly stronger.

* Holding force was checked on the plate surface of 20 mm thickness, when the force acted perpendicularly, in contrast under shearing force the holding force is lower. In addition, even a small distance {between} the magnet and the plate decreases the lifting capacity.