If you are the one percent of the magnet business represented by someone replacing a magnetic latch in your cabinet kitchen cabinet, this information is not for you. If on the other hand you are building kitchen cabinets or any other industrial application that uses a magnet, read on!
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Today’s magnets are strong, lightweight, and inexpensive. They are a commercial commodity. This means they are mass produced in a wide variety of sizes, types, and strength. Because they are mass produced chances are the magnet you want is being made somewhere by someone to a standard shape or size for your application. How to find that magnet is what this article is all about.
Most Magnets are made overseas and are sold and distributed through well-established channels. Working your way up that chain is important to finding good Value. For the one percent of the magnet business that is in repair or replacement then big box retailers and neighborhood hardware’s are where to start. For small quantities (less than 1,000-10,000 magnets) then an industrial supplier like Monroe Engineering will serve as a good resource. Where the manufacturer of a product using lots of magnets goes is the stock and sell distributor. This is the partner that has the relationship with the manufacturer you need. Because their business is based on very high volumes, they will offer the best combination of cost, timing, and quality.
When you reach out to a distributor the more information you provide the better served you will be. With that in mind here is “what you need to know to order a magnet”.
Each of the shapes listed comes in a wide variety of strengths and sizes. Every magnet starts life as one of these shapes. You can do secondary processes like a half dome on a bar, but that will require a tooling and process fee. Not a problem if you are buying millions, but a big cost driver at low volume. Standard magnets shapes are:
Arcs
Discs
Blocks
Cylinders/Rods
Bars
Strips
Rings
Spheres
Cubes
Cones
Flexible strips and sheets
Adhesive backed strips and sheets
Magnets are very hard and in addition to chipping and breaking they can corrode or “rust”. Nearly all magnets are coated or painted for appearance and longevity. These coatings are:
Nickel: If your Magnet is bright silver it is coated with Nickle steel
Plastic: Any color you can imagine but most are black/brown
Rubber: Also, typically a dark color
Molded plastic or rubber: Magnets can be imbedded in products during plastic injection molding.
Unlike biology which gives us definitions of subgroups like genus and species, manufacturing terms and descriptions are rarely so straightforward. Because magnets are so widely used in so many applications, buying them would start with what your magnet is doing. Here are the basic categories of Magnets:
Industrial Lift Magnets: These are used for material handling in a manufacturing or production environment. There are two sub types. Both are “switched” so the magnet can be made inert. Electromagnetic lift magnets require a source of electricity. These magnets can be made very strong to lift very heavy loads. If, however, the electricity goes away so does the magnetic attraction and the load heads toward the floor. More commonly used is a pair of magnets inside a casing with a mechanical lever to reverse the Polarity of two magnets inside. These magnets are in widespread use in many Industries. They are rated by load capacity in Kilograms and pounds. They are typically made to hold three times the rating.
Industrial Sweeping and Tank Magnets: Machine Shops and metal fabricators generate metal “chips” which if they do not imbed themselves in a dirty floor are best picked up with a magnet. Industrial platers and coaters use magnets on the end of a hoist to pick up small metal parts lost in the tanks.
Pot Magnets: Pot magnets are the attaching of a magnet inside a steel cover. The steel cover then becomes the attaching point for things like hooks, studs, fasteners, and clips. These are used in households, office settings, manufacturing. Basically, they work anywhere you want to hang or attach something lightweight to metal.
Permanent Magnets: A permanent magnet means just that. It will retain its magnetic characteristics unless it is exposed to extreme temperature.
Electro Magnets: A magnet that is inert until an electrical charge is applied using a coil around a steel or Iron core. These can be made very powerful and can lift a train off the tracks or pick or launch and airplane off the deck of a carrier.
Temporary Magnet: Becomes magnetic when in the presence of a magnetic field. Rub a paper clip on a magnet and for a short period of time it will retain the magnetic property, albeit very weakly.
Motor Magnets: Typical in the shape of an arc or radius depending on the size of the motor. These can be tiny or gigantic, but every motor has them and there’s a lot of motors out there. Motor magnets are far and away the most common application for magnets in terms of percentage of magnets used at 35% of all magnets made.
Catches, Latches, and Clasps: Plastic encased magnetic latches and catches are used in furniture, cabinets and appliances universally. They are typically “light duty” magnets made to be strong enough to hold a small door closed but light enough to pull open by hand. They are made by the billions to standard sizes and strengths. Less than 10% of all magnets made are in these application
Electronics: This is the largest and most varied category. Every electronic device uses magnetic energy. DVD players, Televisions, X ray machines, Switches, Relays, Solenoids, Sensors, Cell Phones, Wave Guides, and on and on. To say the world operates on magnets would not be far from the truth.
Heavy Duty Magnets: Just about any magnet that lifts a load heavier than a human can is considered heavy duty.
Light duty Magnets: Think small, any magnet a human can manipulate easily would be light duty.
Rare Earth Magnets: Todays lightweight and powerful magnets exist because some minerals can be magnetized to a greater degree than steel or Iron alone. This can further improve by combining some of them. The development of these magnets included the process by which they are made, which was patented. Most rare earth magnets have been produced only under license to these patents. Rare Earth Minerals are just that. Unlike coal there are small deposits spread around the planet with most in Asia. The rare Earth Magnets are:
Neo: Made from Neodymium, Iron and Boron. Neodymium is a mineral used both in lasers and magnets. By far the most common of all the rare earth magnets.
Ceramic Ferrite: The ceramic component resists corrosion so this magnet does not require extra coating. A tradeoff between power and cost.
Smco: Samarium Cobalt performs 2 times better at high temperatures than Neo and is more stable in performance over a range of temperature
Alnico: One of the early rare earth magnets made primarily of Aluminum, Nickle, and Cobalt. Resistant to corrosion and chemicals while stable up to 535 degrees. These are still used in Industrial settings and things like guitar pickups.
Horseshoe Magnets: The universal symbol of the magnet was simply a way to align the poles of a magnet for strength while making it easy to grasp. Simple, elegant, and effective for its time.
Magnets are rated several ways and unless you are an engineer the basic unit of measure is lbs. Or kilograms of force required to separate a magnet in full contact with a direct pull. Note the words “Direct Pull”. I was once challenged to pull apart two small but powerful magnets with my hands. Since magnets do not resist shear as well as direct force, I simply slid them apart sideways. Getting them back together became the problem. That is why a refrigerator magnet might be hard to peel off but can be slid around.
Sometimes magnets are not in direct contact with the item being lifted. The ability of the magnetic field to hold a given amount of weight through an air gap Is also measured. That is why your refrigerator magnet will only hold so thick a stack of documents. The magnetic field must reach through the thickness of paper.
Ultimately a magnet is measured by its “Maximum Energy Product”. This is the number of Mega Gauss Oersteds. (mgoe) The higher this value the greater the magnetic field and relative strength of the magnet will be.
Modern Neo Magnets are rated with the letter N followed by a number. The highest current rating is N-52. If the rating is followed by a letter that denotes its relative resistance to temperature. If there is no letter it is considered to meet the std for that rating.
Should you want to check the breakaway force of a magnet the Magnet Distributor and Fabricator Association has published a std. MDFA-101-95
At the end of the day “you can never have too much magnet” when it comes to matching a magnet to an application
Magnets started as a naturally occurring mineral in the form of Lodestone. The earth itself is a giant magnet. Modern magnets use different materials to achieve their great strength, but the principle of their performance is the same as the lodestone discovered about 600 BC Not all minerals are magnetic. Magnetic material like lodestone is not uniformly present in the earth’s crust. By simple definition, a magnet “Is an object that has an energy field which attracts metals like Iron, steel, and cobalt.” The word object is used because inert material can be magnetized by the creation of an electrical field around it. The “magnetic field” is a flow of energy outside the body of the object going from one pole to the other……. Negative to Positive. A metal object within that field is attracted to the object generating the field. Modern magnets are made of powder that is charged after aligning the particles to a uniform direction, literally making millions of tiny magnets work together once the powder is compressed and heated in a process called sintering. The stronger the magnet the greater the pull and reach of the magnetic field.
Now that you know the basics of how to describe your magnet application and requirements it is time to find a partner. First, talking to the factory is out of the question in most applications. Most magnets are produced in Asia under license. They are bought in bulk and standard sizes by stock and sell distributors. The distributors are only as good as their Asian suppliers, their ability to stock a wide array of products is a function of financial strength. Because of their complexity it is quite easy to make a mistake when speccing a magnet on the internet. Do not hesitate to reach out to a search result that meets the basic criteria of your magnet. If a human being picks up the quickly and seems knowledgeable you are on your way to a good low-cost solution.
In today’s digital age, purchasing strong magnets online has never been easier—or more overwhelming. With countless options available at your fingertips, finding the right magnet for your specific needs can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Whether you’re an engineer designing cutting-edge technology, a hobbyist building DIY projects, or a business owner sourcing materials for industrial applications, choosing the right magnet is crucial. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make informed decisions when buying strong magnets online.
Strong magnets, particularly rare-earth magnets like neodymium (NdFeB) and samarium cobalt (SmCo), are indispensable in modern applications due to their exceptional magnetic properties. Here’s why they’re so popular:
1. Unmatched Strength: Neodymium magnets, for example, are the strongest permanent magnets available, capable of holding hundreds of times their weight.
2. Compact Size: Despite their power, strong magnets are often small and lightweight, making them ideal for space-constrained designs.
3. Versatility: From electric motors and wind turbines to medical devices and crafts, strong magnets serve a wide range of industries and purposes.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: While initially more expensive than traditional magnets, their durability and efficiency often result in long-term savings.
However, with great power comes great responsibility—choosing the wrong magnet can lead to inefficiencies, safety hazards, or even project failure. That’s where this guide comes in.
Before diving into the buying process, it’s essential to understand the different types of strong magnets you’ll encounter online:
1. Neodymium Magnets
· Strengths : Incredibly powerful, compact, and affordable.
· Applications : Electric motors, speakers, hard drives, jewelry clasps, and magnetic separators.
· Limitations : Susceptible to corrosion unless coated and lose strength at high temperatures.
2. Samarium Cobalt Magnets
· Strengths : Excellent temperature stability, corrosion resistance, and longevity.
· Applications : Aerospace, military, and medical equipment.
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· Limitations : More expensive than neodymium magnets.
3. Alnico Magnets
· Strengths : High-temperature tolerance and classic appearance.
· Applications : Sensors, guitar pickups, and vintage machinery.
· Limitations : Lower strength compared to rare-earth magnets.
4. Ferrite Magnets
· Strengths : Cost-effective, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for large-scale applications.
· Applications : Refrigerator magnets, loudspeakers, and automotive parts.
· Limitations : Weaker than rare-earth magnets.
Understanding these options will help you narrow down your search based on your project’s requirements.
To ensure you select the best magnet for your needs, consider the following factors:
1. Magnet Strength (Pull Force)
The pull force indicates how much weight a magnet can hold. It’s measured in pounds or kilograms and depends on the magnet’s size, grade, and material. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the magnet meets your load-bearing requirements.
2. Size and Shape
Magnets come in various shapes, including discs, blocks, rings, spheres, and cylinders. The shape should align with your application’s design constraints. For example:
· Disc magnets are versatile and commonly used in crafts and closures.
· Ring magnets are ideal for rotors in electric motors.
· Block magnets provide maximum surface area for mounting.
3. Grade
The grade of a magnet refers to its maximum energy product, which determines its strength. Neodymium magnets, for instance, range from N35 (weakest) to N52 (strongest). Higher grades cost more but offer superior performance.
4. Temperature Resistance
If your application involves extreme temperatures, choose a magnet designed to withstand those conditions. For example:
· Neodymium magnets typically operate up to 80°C–200°C, depending on the grade.
· Samarium cobalt magnets excel in environments exceeding 300°C.
5. Corrosion Resistance
Neodymium magnets are prone to rusting unless coated with materials like nickel, zinc, or epoxy. If your project involves exposure to moisture or chemicals, opt for corrosion-resistant coatings or alternative materials like samarium cobalt or ferrite.
6. Safety Concerns
Powerful magnets pose risks such as pinching injuries, interference with electronic devices, and accidental attraction to ferromagnetic objects. Always review safety guidelines provided by the supplier.
Purchasing strong magnets online requires careful planning. Follow these steps to streamline the process:
1. Define Your Requirements
Clearly outline the purpose, size, shape, strength, and environmental conditions of your application. This will help you filter out unsuitable options early on.
2. Research Reputable Suppliers
Not all online retailers are created equal. Look for suppliers with:
· Positive customer reviews.
· Detailed product descriptions and specifications.
· Transparent return policies and warranties.
· Certifications indicating quality assurance (e.g., ISO standards).
3. Compare Prices
While price shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor, it’s important to compare costs across multiple vendors. Be wary of unusually low prices, as they may indicate inferior quality.
4. Check Shipping Policies
Magnets are classified as hazardous materials due to their potential to interfere with navigation systems during transport. Ensure the supplier complies with shipping regulations and offers secure packaging to prevent damage.
5. Request Samples (If Possible)
For critical applications, request samples to test the magnet’s performance before committing to a bulk order.
6. Place Your Order
Once you’ve identified the perfect magnet and verified the supplier’s credibility, proceed with your purchase confidently.
Even experienced buyers can fall into traps when purchasing magnets. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Ignoring Temperature Limits: Failing to account for thermal expansion or contraction can lead to magnet failure.
2. Overlooking Coatings: Uncoated neodymium magnets are prone to rust and degradation, especially in humid environments.
3. Underestimating Strength: Choosing a magnet that’s too weak for your application can compromise safety and functionality.
4. Neglecting Safety Protocols: Mishandling powerful magnets can result in injuries or damage to nearby electronics.
5. Skipping Research: Relying solely on price or aesthetics without considering technical specifications can lead to poor performance.
To further inspire your purchase, here are some popular uses for strong magnets:
1. Industrial Machinery: Magnetic separators, conveyor belts, and lifting systems.
2. Automotive Industry: Sensors, actuators, and electric vehicle motors.
3. Consumer Electronics: Speakers, headphones, and smartphone cases.
4. Crafts and DIY Projects: Jewelry making, fridge organization, and art installations.
5. Renewable Energy: Wind turbines and generators.
6. Medical Devices : MRI machines and prosthetics.
Buying strong magnets online doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the types of magnets available, evaluating key factors like strength and temperature resistance, and partnering with reputable suppliers, you can find the perfect magnet for your project. Whether you’re tackling a professional engineering challenge or indulging in a creative hobby, strong magnets offer unparalleled versatility and performance.
At Rochester Magnet, we’re committed to providing high-quality magnetic solutions tailored to meet your unique needs. Explore our extensive catalog of strong magnets and let us help you bring your ideas to life. With the right magnet in hand, the possibilities are endless.
Website: www.rochestermagnet.com
Location: 119 Despatch Dr East Rochester, NY
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