HH 16x5.3 [M3] / N38 - through hole magnetic holder

Pros and cons of neodymium magnets.

Besides their magnetic performance, neodymium magnets are valued for these benefits:

• They do not lose strength, even after around ten years – the decrease in lifting capacity is only ~1% (according to tests),
• They do not lose their magnetic properties even under external field action,
• By applying a lustrous layer of gold, the element has an proper look,
• They show high magnetic induction at the operating surface, making them more effective,
• Due to their durability and thermal resistance, neodymium magnets can operate (depending on the shape) even at high temperatures reaching 230°C or more...
• Thanks to freedom in shaping and the ability to customize to unusual requirements,
• Huge importance in innovative solutions – they are utilized in magnetic memories, electromotive mechanisms, medical equipment, and technologically advanced constructions.
• Thanks to efficiency per cm³, small magnets offer high operating force, occupying minimum space,

Cons of neodymium magnets and ways of using them

• They are fragile upon too strong impacts. To avoid cracks, it is worth securing magnets in special housings. Such protection not only shields the magnet but also improves its resistance to damage
• Neodymium magnets lose their power under the influence of heating. As soon as 80°C is exceeded, many of them start losing their power. Therefore, we recommend our special magnets marked [AH], which maintain durability even at temperatures up to 230°C
• Magnets exposed to a humid environment can rust. Therefore during using outdoors, we advise using water-impermeable magnets made of rubber, plastic or other material resistant to moisture
• Limited possibility of creating nuts in the magnet and complex shapes - preferred is casing - magnet mounting.
• Health risk related to microscopic parts of magnets are risky, when accidentally swallowed, which gains importance in the context of child health protection. Furthermore, small elements of these devices can complicate diagnosis medical after entering the body.
• High unit price – neodymium magnets are more expensive than other types of magnets (e.g. ferrite), which hinders application in large quantities

Optimal lifting capacity of a neodymium magnet – what affects it?

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

• on a plate made of mild steel, optimally conducting the magnetic field
• possessing a thickness of at least 10 mm to avoid saturation
• with an ground contact surface
• with zero gap (without paint)
• for force applied at a right angle (pull-off, not shear)
• at temperature approx. 20 degrees Celsius

Magnet lifting force in use – key factors

Please note that the magnet holding will differ subject to the following factors, starting with the most relevant:

• Distance (between the magnet and the plate), as even a microscopic distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) results in a decrease in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to paint, corrosion or dirt).
• Pull-off angle – remember that the magnet has greatest strength perpendicularly. Under shear forces, the capacity drops significantly, often to levels of 20-30% of the nominal value.
• Substrate thickness – to utilize 100% power, the steel must be sufficiently thick. Paper-thin metal restricts the attraction force (the magnet "punches through" it).
• Material type – the best choice is pure iron steel. Cast iron may attract less.
• Smoothness – ideal contact is obtained only on smooth steel. Rough texture create air cushions, weakening the magnet.
• Thermal environment – temperature increase results in weakening of induction. Check the thermal limit for a given model.

* Holding force was checked on a smooth steel plate of 20 mm thickness, when a perpendicular force was applied, in contrast under parallel forces the lifting capacity is smaller. Additionally, even a minimal clearance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate reduces the load capacity.