SMZR 25x225 / N52 - magnetic separator with handle

Strengths as well as weaknesses of neodymium magnets.

Besides their exceptional strength, neodymium magnets offer the following advantages:

• They have constant strength, and over around 10 years their performance decreases symbolically – ~1% (in testing),
• They feature excellent resistance to magnetic field loss due to opposing magnetic fields,
• A magnet with a smooth silver surface is more attractive,
• Neodymium magnets create maximum magnetic induction on a their surface, which increases force concentration,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they are capable of working (depending on the shape) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Thanks to flexibility in shaping and the capacity to adapt to unusual requirements,
• Wide application in modern technologies – they are commonly used in computer drives, drive modules, medical devices, and multitasking production systems.
• Thanks to their power density, small magnets offer high operating force, with minimal size,

Problematic aspects of neodymium magnets: tips and applications.

• To avoid cracks under impact, we suggest using special steel holders. Such a solution secures the magnet and simultaneously improves its durability.
• We warn that neodymium magnets can lose their strength at high temperatures. To prevent this, we recommend our specialized [AH] magnets, which work effectively even at 230°C.
• Magnets exposed to a humid environment can corrode. Therefore while using outdoors, we advise using waterproof magnets made of rubber, plastic or other material protecting against moisture
• Due to limitations in creating threads and complex shapes in magnets, we propose using cover - magnetic mount.
• Potential hazard to health – tiny shards of magnets are risky, in case of ingestion, which becomes key in the aspect of protecting the youngest. Additionally, small components of these magnets are able to be problematic in diagnostics medical after entering the body.
• Due to expensive raw materials, their price is higher than average,

Maximum magnetic pulling force – what affects it?

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

• using a plate made of mild steel, serving as a magnetic yoke
• with a thickness of at least 10 mm
• with an ground touching surface
• without the slightest insulating layer between the magnet and steel
• during pulling in a direction vertical to the mounting surface
• at room temperature

Determinants of lifting force in real conditions

Effective lifting capacity is affected by specific conditions, including (from priority):

• Distance (between the magnet and the plate), as even a microscopic clearance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause a reduction in force by up to 50% (this also applies to paint, corrosion or debris).
• Force direction – catalog parameter refers to detachment vertically. When attempting to slide, the magnet exhibits significantly lower power (typically approx. 20-30% of nominal force).
• Metal thickness – the thinner the sheet, the weaker the hold. Part of the magnetic field passes through the material instead of generating force.
• Material composition – not every steel reacts the same. Alloy additives worsen the attraction effect.
• Surface condition – smooth surfaces ensure maximum contact, which increases field saturation. Uneven metal weaken the grip.
• Thermal conditions – NdFeB sinters have a sensitivity to temperature. At higher temperatures they lose power, and at low temperatures they can be stronger (up to a certain limit).

* Lifting capacity was assessed using a steel plate with a smooth surface of suitable thickness (min. 20 mm), under vertically applied force, whereas under attempts to slide the magnet the holding force is lower. Moreover, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate reduces the holding force.