RM R2 - 13000 Gs / N52 - magnetic distributor

Advantages and disadvantages of rare earth magnets.

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

• They virtually do not lose strength, because even after 10 years the decline in efficiency is only ~1% (in laboratory conditions),
• They retain their magnetic properties even under close interference source,
• A magnet with a shiny nickel surface has better aesthetics,
• Neodymium magnets achieve maximum magnetic induction on a contact point, which ensures high operational effectiveness,
• Neodymium magnets are characterized by extremely high magnetic induction on the magnet surface and are able to act (depending on the form) even at a temperature of 230°C or more...
• Thanks to versatility in shaping and the capacity to modify to specific needs,
• Key role in modern industrial fields – they serve a role in magnetic memories, electromotive mechanisms, medical devices, as well as complex engineering applications.
• Compactness – despite small sizes they offer powerful magnetic field, making them ideal for precision applications

Problematic aspects of neodymium magnets: weaknesses and usage proposals

• To avoid cracks under impact, we suggest using special steel housings. Such a solution secures the magnet and simultaneously improves its durability.
• When exposed to high temperature, neodymium magnets suffer a drop in force. Often, when the temperature exceeds 80°C, their strength decreases (depending on the size, as well as shape of the magnet). For those who need magnets for extreme conditions, we offer [AH] versions withstanding up to 230°C
• They rust in a humid environment. For use outdoors we recommend using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• Due to limitations in producing nuts and complicated shapes in magnets, we recommend using a housing - magnetic mount.
• Possible danger related to microscopic parts of magnets pose a threat, in case of ingestion, which gains importance in the context of child health protection. Furthermore, small elements of these devices can complicate diagnosis medical when they are in the body.
• Higher cost of purchase is one of the disadvantages compared to ceramic magnets, especially in budget applications

Highest magnetic holding force – what affects it?

The lifting capacity listed is a result of laboratory testing conducted under specific, ideal conditions:

• on a block made of mild steel, perfectly concentrating the magnetic field
• possessing a massiveness of at least 10 mm to ensure full flux closure
• with an polished contact surface
• under conditions of gap-free contact (metal-to-metal)
• under perpendicular force direction (90-degree angle)
• at standard ambient temperature

Lifting capacity in real conditions – factors

Bear in mind that the working load will differ subject to elements below, starting with the most relevant:

• Clearance – existence of any layer (paint, dirt, air) acts as an insulator, which lowers capacity rapidly (even by 50% at 0.5 mm).
• Load vector – highest force is available only during pulling at a 90° angle. The force required to slide of the magnet along the surface is standardly many times smaller (approx. 1/5 of the lifting capacity).
• Substrate thickness – to utilize 100% power, the steel must be sufficiently thick. Paper-thin metal limits the lifting capacity (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Material composition – not every steel attracts identically. High carbon content weaken the attraction effect.
• Plate texture – ground elements guarantee perfect abutment, which increases force. Uneven metal reduce efficiency.
• Temperature – temperature increase causes a temporary drop of induction. It is worth remembering the thermal limit for a given model.

* Lifting capacity was determined by applying a smooth steel plate of suitable thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular detachment 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.