MW 10x8 / N38 - cylindrical magnet

Advantages as well as disadvantages of neodymium magnets NdFeB.

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

• Their magnetic field is maintained, and after approximately 10 years, it drops only by ~1% (according to research),
• Their ability to resist magnetic interference from external fields is impressive,
• In other words, due to the glossy gold coating, the magnet obtains an stylish appearance,
• They possess intense magnetic force measurable at the magnet’s surface,
• They are suitable for high-temperature applications, operating effectively at 230°C+ due to advanced heat resistance and form-specific properties,
• The ability for precise shaping or adaptation to individual needs – neodymium magnets can be manufactured in a wide range of shapes and sizes, which amplifies their functionality across industries,
• Wide application in advanced technical fields – they serve a purpose in computer drives, electric motors, diagnostic apparatus or even other advanced devices,
• Compactness – despite their small size, they generate strong force, making them ideal for precision applications

Disadvantages of rare earth magnets:

• They can break when subjected to a strong impact. If the magnets are exposed to physical collisions, they should be placed in a protective case. The steel housing, in the form of a holder, protects the magnet from breakage and enhances its overall durability,
• They lose field intensity at extreme temperatures. Most neodymium magnets experience permanent loss in strength when heated above 80°C (depending on the geometry and height). However, we offer special variants with high temperature resistance that can operate up to 230°C or higher,
• Due to corrosion risk in humid conditions, it is common to use sealed magnets made of synthetic coating for outdoor use,
• Limited ability to create precision features in the magnet – the use of a housing is recommended,
• Possible threat due to small fragments may arise, when consumed by mistake, which is significant in the protection of children. Furthermore, minuscule fragments from these magnets can complicate medical imaging when ingested,
• High unit cost – neodymium magnets are pricier than other types of magnets (e.g., ferrite), which may limit large-scale applications

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

The given holding capacity of the magnet represents the highest holding force, calculated in ideal conditions, namely:

• with the use of low-carbon steel plate acting as a magnetic yoke
• with a thickness of minimum 10 mm
• with a polished side
• with zero air gap
• with vertical force applied
• in normal thermal conditions

Practical lifting capacity: influencing factors

The lifting capacity of a magnet is influenced by in practice the following factors, ordered from most important to least significant:

• 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 measured on a smooth steel plate of 20 mm thickness, when a perpendicular force was applied, however under attempts to slide the magnet the holding force is lower. In addition, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate lowers the holding force.