NC NeoCube 5 mm kwadraty / N38 - neocube

Advantages as well as disadvantages of neodymium magnets NdFeB.

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

• They have unchanged lifting capacity, and over nearly 10 years their attraction force decreases symbolically – ~1% (in testing),
• Their ability to resist magnetic interference from external fields is among the best,
• By applying a bright layer of gold, the element gains a clean look,
• The outer field strength of the magnet shows remarkable magnetic properties,
• Thanks to their exceptional temperature resistance, they can operate (depending on the shape) even at temperatures up to 230°C or more,
• With the option for customized forming and personalized design, these magnets can be produced in various shapes and sizes, greatly improving engineering flexibility,
• Important function in cutting-edge sectors – they find application in data storage devices, electromechanical systems, clinical machines along with sophisticated instruments,
• Thanks to their efficiency per volume, small magnets offer high magnetic performance, with minimal size,

Disadvantages of NdFeB magnets:

• They are prone to breaking when subjected to a sudden impact. If the magnets are exposed to mechanical hits, it is suggested to place them in a steel housing. The steel housing, in the form of a holder, protects the magnet from fracture and enhances its overall resistance,
• High temperatures may significantly reduce the holding force of neodymium magnets. Typically, above 80°C, they experience permanent weakening in performance (depending on height). To prevent this, we offer heat-resistant magnets marked [AH], capable of working up to 230°C, which makes them perfect for high-temperature use,
• Magnets exposed to humidity can rust. Therefore, for outdoor applications, it's best to use waterproof types made of non-metallic composites,
• Using a cover – such as a magnetic holder – is advised due to the limitations in manufacturing complex structures directly in the magnet,
• Possible threat linked to microscopic shards may arise, if ingested accidentally, which is significant in the context of child safety. It should also be noted that tiny components from these products may complicate medical imaging when ingested,
• Higher purchase price is one of the drawbacks compared to ceramic magnets, especially in budget-sensitive applications

Maximum lifting force for a neodymium magnet – what it depends on?

The given lifting capacity of the magnet means the maximum lifting force, assessed under optimal conditions, that is:

• with mild steel, serving as a magnetic flux conductor
• having a thickness of no less than 10 millimeters
• with a polished side
• in conditions of no clearance
• under perpendicular detachment force
• at room temperature

Key elements affecting lifting force

The lifting capacity of a magnet depends on in practice key elements, from primary to secondary:

• Air gap between the magnet and the plate, because even a very small distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause 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.

* Lifting capacity was assessed using a smooth steel plate of suitable thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular pulling force, whereas under attempts to slide the magnet the load capacity is reduced by as much as fivefold. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate decreases the lifting capacity.