RM R8 ULTRA - 13000 Gs / N52 - magnetic distributor

Advantages as well as disadvantages of neodymium magnets.

In addition to their long-term stability, neodymium magnets provide the following advantages:

• They virtually do not lose strength, because even after 10 years the decline in efficiency is only ~1% (based on calculations),
• They possess excellent resistance to weakening of magnetic properties due to external fields,
• The use of an elegant layer of noble metals (nickel, gold, silver) causes the element to look better,
• Neodymium magnets achieve maximum magnetic induction on a contact point, which allows for strong attraction,
• Neodymium magnets are characterized by very high magnetic induction on the magnet surface and can work (depending on the shape) even at a temperature of 230°C or more...
• Considering the ability of precise shaping and adaptation to custom needs, magnetic components can be modeled in a broad palette of geometric configurations, which increases their versatility,
• Huge importance in innovative solutions – they find application in magnetic memories, brushless drives, medical equipment, also other advanced devices.
• Relatively small size with high pulling force – neodymium magnets offer impressive pulling force in tiny dimensions, which enables their usage in small systems

Disadvantages of neodymium magnets:

• Susceptibility to cracking is one of their disadvantages. Upon strong impact they can break. We recommend keeping them in a strong case, which not only protects them against impacts but also raises their durability
• NdFeB magnets lose force 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 extremely resistant to heat
• They rust in a humid environment - during use outdoors we suggest using waterproof magnets e.g. in rubber, plastic
• We recommend cover - magnetic holder, due to difficulties in creating threads inside the magnet and complicated forms.
• Potential hazard to health – tiny shards of magnets can be dangerous, when accidentally swallowed, which is particularly important in the context of child safety. Furthermore, tiny parts of these products are able to complicate diagnosis medical when they are in the body.
• Due to expensive raw materials, their price exceeds standard values,

Magnetic strength at its maximum – what it depends on?

The lifting capacity listed is a theoretical maximum value executed under specific, ideal conditions:

• on a block made of mild steel, optimally conducting the magnetic field
• possessing a thickness of minimum 10 mm to ensure full flux closure
• with a plane cleaned and smooth
• without any clearance between the magnet and steel
• under vertical force direction (90-degree angle)
• at temperature approx. 20 degrees Celsius

Lifting capacity in practice – influencing factors

Holding efficiency is affected by working environment parameters, such as (from priority):

• Gap between magnet and steel – even a fraction of a millimeter of separation (caused e.g. by varnish or dirt) drastically reduces the magnet efficiency, often by half at just 0.5 mm.
• Force direction – note that the magnet has greatest strength perpendicularly. Under sliding down, the holding force drops drastically, often to levels of 20-30% of the nominal value.
• Metal thickness – thin material does not allow full use of the magnet. Magnetic flux passes through the material instead of converting into lifting capacity.
• Steel grade – ideal substrate is high-permeability steel. Cast iron may have worse magnetic properties.
• Surface finish – full contact is obtained only on polished steel. Any scratches and bumps reduce the real contact area, reducing force.
• Thermal environment – temperature increase causes a temporary drop of induction. Check the maximum operating temperature for a given model.

* Lifting capacity was determined using a polished steel plate of optimal thickness (min. 20 mm), under perpendicular detachment force, whereas under attempts to slide the magnet the holding force is lower. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate decreases the holding force.