RM R2 - 13000 Gs / N52 - magnetic distributor

Advantages as well as disadvantages of rare earth magnets.

Apart from their strong magnetic energy, neodymium magnets have these key benefits:

• Their power is maintained, and after around 10 years it drops only by ~1% (theoretically),
• They have excellent resistance to magnetic field loss when exposed to external fields,
• A magnet with a smooth gold surface looks better,
• Magnets are characterized by impressive magnetic induction on the outer side,
• Through (appropriate) combination of ingredients, they can achieve high thermal resistance, allowing for operation at temperatures approaching 230°C and above...
• Thanks to versatility in shaping and the capacity to modify to individual projects,
• Significant place in future technologies – they are commonly used in magnetic memories, electric motors, precision medical tools, also multitasking production systems.
• Compactness – despite small sizes they offer powerful magnetic field, making them ideal for precision applications

Characteristics of disadvantages of neodymium magnets and ways of using them

• They are prone to damage upon heavy impacts. To avoid cracks, it is worth protecting magnets using a steel holder. Such protection not only shields the magnet but also increases its resistance to damage
• NdFeB magnets demagnetize when exposed to high temperatures. After reaching 80°C, many of them experience permanent drop of strength (a factor is the shape and dimensions of the magnet). We offer magnets specially adapted to work at temperatures up to 230°C marked [AH], which are very resistant to heat
• They rust in a humid environment - during use outdoors we recommend using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• Limited ability of creating nuts in the magnet and complicated forms - recommended is casing - mounting mechanism.
• Health risk to health – tiny shards of magnets can be dangerous, in case of ingestion, which gains importance in the context of child health protection. Additionally, small elements of these devices can complicate diagnosis medical in case of swallowing.
• With mass production the cost of neodymium magnets is a challenge,

Maximum magnetic pulling force – what it depends on?

The declared magnet strength refers to the limit force, obtained under laboratory conditions, meaning:

• with the contact of a yoke made of low-carbon steel, ensuring full magnetic saturation
• whose thickness reaches at least 10 mm
• with an ideally smooth touching surface
• without any air gap between the magnet and steel
• during pulling in a direction perpendicular to the plane
• in temp. approx. 20°C

Practical aspects of lifting capacity – factors

Please note that the magnet holding will differ depending on elements below, starting with the most relevant:

• Distance – existence of any layer (paint, dirt, air) interrupts the magnetic circuit, which lowers capacity steeply (even by 50% at 0.5 mm).
• Angle of force application – highest force is available only during perpendicular pulling. The resistance to sliding of the magnet along the plate is typically several times smaller (approx. 1/5 of the lifting capacity).
• Substrate thickness – for full efficiency, the steel must be adequately massive. Paper-thin metal limits the lifting capacity (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Steel grade – ideal substrate is pure iron steel. Stainless steels may attract less.
• Surface condition – smooth surfaces ensure maximum contact, which increases force. Uneven metal reduce efficiency.
• Thermal factor – hot environment weakens magnetic field. Too high temperature can permanently demagnetize the magnet.

* Lifting capacity testing was performed on a smooth plate of suitable thickness, under perpendicular forces, whereas under parallel forces the holding force is lower. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet and the plate reduces the holding force.