ZM XMAG2 105 elementów - magnetic toy

Pros and cons of NdFeB magnets.

In addition to their magnetic efficiency, neodymium magnets provide the following advantages:

• They virtually do not lose strength, because even after ten years the decline in efficiency is only ~1% (based on calculations),
• Magnets very well resist against demagnetization caused by external fields,
• By applying a shiny layer of gold, the element has an modern look,
• The surface of neodymium magnets generates a powerful magnetic field – this is one of their assets,
• Thanks to resistance to high temperature, they are able to function (depending on the shape) even at temperatures up to 230°C and higher...
• Considering the possibility of flexible molding and customization to specialized needs, magnetic components can be manufactured in a broad palette of shapes and sizes, which increases their versatility,
• Huge importance in modern technologies – they are used in hard drives, electric drive systems, medical equipment, also other advanced devices.
• Compactness – despite small sizes they generate large force, making them ideal for precision applications

Cons of neodymium magnets: tips and applications.

• Susceptibility to cracking is one of their disadvantages. Upon intense impact they can fracture. We recommend keeping them in a strong case, which not only protects them against impacts but also increases their durability
• Neodymium magnets lose their power under the influence of heating. As soon as 80°C is exceeded, many of them start losing their force. Therefore, we recommend our special magnets marked [AH], which maintain stability even at temperatures up to 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 immune to moisture, in case of application outdoors
• Limited possibility of creating nuts in the magnet and complicated forms - recommended is cover - magnetic holder.
• Possible danger to health – tiny shards of magnets can be dangerous, if swallowed, which gains importance in the aspect of protecting the youngest. Additionally, tiny parts of these devices are able to complicate diagnosis medical in case of swallowing.
• With mass production the cost of neodymium magnets can be a barrier,

Maximum holding power of the magnet – what it depends on?

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

• using a sheet made of low-carbon steel, functioning as a ideal flux conductor
• with a thickness no less than 10 mm
• with an ideally smooth contact surface
• without the slightest insulating layer between the magnet and steel
• for force applied at a right angle (in the magnet axis)
• in stable room temperature

Magnet lifting force in use – key factors

Real force impacted by specific conditions, such as (from priority):

• Air gap (between the magnet and the metal), as even a microscopic distance (e.g. 0.5 mm) can cause a decrease in lifting capacity by up to 50% (this also applies to paint, corrosion or dirt).
• Force direction – declared lifting capacity refers to pulling vertically. When applying parallel force, the magnet holds significantly lower power (typically approx. 20-30% of nominal force).
• Base massiveness – too thin plate causes magnetic saturation, causing part of the power to be escaped to the other side.
• Steel grade – ideal substrate is high-permeability steel. Hardened steels may have worse magnetic properties.
• Base smoothness – the more even the surface, the larger the contact zone and higher the lifting capacity. Unevenness acts like micro-gaps.
• Temperature – heating the magnet causes a temporary drop of induction. It is worth remembering the maximum operating temperature for a given model.

* Holding force was measured on a smooth steel plate of 20 mm thickness, when the force acted perpendicularly, in contrast under parallel forces the holding force is lower. Moreover, even a small distance {between} the magnet’s surface and the plate lowers the lifting capacity.