RM R8 ULTRA - 13000 Gs / N52 - magnetic distributor

Pros as well as cons of rare earth magnets.

Besides their high retention, neodymium magnets are valued for these benefits:

• They have constant strength, and over around 10 years their attraction force decreases symbolically – ~1% (according to theory),
• They have excellent resistance to magnetism drop as a result of external magnetic sources,
• By applying a reflective layer of gold, the element presents an nice look,
• Magnets exhibit maximum magnetic induction on the surface,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they can operate (depending on the shape) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Thanks to the ability of free forming and customization to custom needs, magnetic components can be produced in a wide range of forms and dimensions, which increases their versatility,
• Versatile presence in advanced technology sectors – they are commonly used in data components, electric drive systems, medical equipment, and technologically advanced constructions.
• Compactness – despite small sizes they generate large force, making them ideal for precision applications

Cons of neodymium magnets: application proposals

• They are prone to damage upon too strong impacts. To avoid cracks, it is worth protecting magnets in a protective case. Such protection not only protects the magnet but also improves its resistance to damage
• We warn that neodymium magnets can lose their power at high temperatures. To prevent this, we recommend our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• Due to the susceptibility of magnets to corrosion in a humid environment, we suggest using waterproof magnets made of rubber, plastic or other material stable to moisture, in case of application outdoors
• Limited possibility of making threads in the magnet and complex shapes - preferred is a housing - magnetic holder.
• Health risk related to microscopic parts of magnets pose a threat, when accidentally swallowed, which gains importance in the aspect of protecting the youngest. Furthermore, tiny parts of these magnets are able to disrupt the diagnostic process medical when they are in the body.
• High unit price – neodymium magnets have a higher price than other types of magnets (e.g. ferrite), which can limit application in large quantities

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

The specified lifting capacity concerns the limit force, measured under ideal test conditions, namely:

• using a plate made of high-permeability steel, serving as a magnetic yoke
• whose thickness equals approx. 10 mm
• characterized by even structure
• under conditions of no distance (surface-to-surface)
• during pulling in a direction vertical to the plane
• at room temperature

Key elements affecting lifting force

During everyday use, the real power depends on many variables, listed from most significant:

• Distance (betwixt the magnet and the metal), as even a very small distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause a decrease in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to varnish, corrosion or debris).
• Direction of force – highest force is reached only during perpendicular pulling. The force required to slide of the magnet along the surface is usually several times smaller (approx. 1/5 of the lifting capacity).
• Substrate thickness – for full efficiency, the steel must be sufficiently thick. Paper-thin metal limits the attraction force (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Metal type – different alloys reacts the same. High carbon content weaken the attraction effect.
• Smoothness – ideal contact is possible only on polished steel. Rough texture reduce the real contact area, reducing force.
• Temperature – temperature increase causes a temporary drop of induction. Check the thermal limit for a given model.

* Holding force was checked on a smooth steel plate of 20 mm thickness, when the force acted perpendicularly, whereas under attempts to slide the magnet the load capacity is reduced by as much as 75%. Additionally, even a small distance {between} the magnet and the plate lowers the load capacity.