Choosing a Rare Earth Magnet

The term rare-earth element magnet may be a generic name wont to describe two sorts of magnetic material: samarium cobalt and neodymium iron boron. Both of those magnetic alloys utilize Rare Earth Magnet elements because the magnetic constituents and therefore the characteristics offered by both material types lend themselves to specific applications.

Over 30 years ago, neodymium magnets were developed by General Motors and Sumitomo Specialty Metals in response to the rising cost of samarium cobalt. Since its inception, neodymium iron boron has undergone a numerous enhancements, and today, this material is that the hottest and widely used magnet alloy. It’s also important to understand that there are many patents covering the assembly of sintered neodymium iron boron magnets. Here at Dura, the neodymium iron boron we supply is licensed and compliant to all or any applicable patents.

Of all magnetic materials (including other rare earths), neodymium iron boron offers the very best available magnetic energy density with (BH)Max values starting from 33 to 52 MGOe. This property allows designers to use relatively small amounts of magnetic alloy in comparison to other magnetic materials.

Although the smaller magnets and increased savings related to neodymium might suggest choosing a high strength neodymium magnet is that the most suitable option for all applications, this is often not always the case. Ignoring important characteristics like operating temperature or the magnet’s ability to face up to corrosion may cause premature failure and substandard performance. Alternative heat grades of neodymium iron boron and various surface treatments are available when the trials of the appliance demand it.

Most of the main Motor arc Magnets manufacturers (including Dura) offer charts and data describing the physical characteristics of obtainable magnets grades, including rare-earth element magnets. This information may be a huge help when selecting a rare-earth element magnet, but it's only a start line.

The different magnetic and physical properties of those two magnetic alloys means choosing the right rare-earth element magnet is more complex than locating a web vendor offering an appropriate size. Ultimately, selecting the right rare-earth element magnet is application driven, and your best bet is to talk with an engineer to debate your specific needs.