Neodymium Magnets

Neodymium magnets, also known as neo magnets, NdFeB magnets, or rare earth magnets, are the most powerful type of permanent magnet commercially available. Neodymium is a rare earth element belonging to the lanthanide series of the periodic table, which is why these magnets are sometimes referred to as earth magnets. When combined with iron and boron, it forms a compound with a very high coercivity and remanence, leading to the creation of these incredibly strong magnets capable of attracting any ferromagnetic material.

Read our guide on neodymium magnets to learn more.

How Strong are Neodymium Magnets?

The strength of neodymium magnets is quantified using a grading system that typically ranges from N33 to N52. This grading system directly correlates with the earth magnet's maximum energy product, a measure of its magnetic strength.

The "N" prefix indicates that it's a neodymium magnet. The number following "N" represents the maximum energy product in mega gauss-oersteds (MGOe). For example, an N52 magnet has a higher maximum energy product than an N33 magnet.

However, this increased strength comes at the cost of increased brittleness. Higher-grade magnets are more susceptible to chipping and breaking, especially under mechanical stress or impact.

What Types of Neodymium Magnets are Available?

We offer a diverse range of neodymium magnets to suit various applications, each with unique shapes and functionalities:

• Bar Magnets: Rectangular in shape, these magnets provide a strong, linear magnetic field and are often used in holding and separating applications.
• Block Magnets: Larger, cuboid-shaped magnets that deliver a powerful magnetic force, suitable for industrial and heavy-duty applications.
• Disc Magnets: Circular and flat, these magnets offer a concentrated magnetic field and are commonly used in sensors, speakers, and holding devices.
• Pot Magnets: Encased in a steel pot, these magnets focus the magnetic field on one face, providing a very strong holding force, ideal for mounting and fixing applications.
• Shallow Pot Magnets: A variation of pot magnets with a shallower pot depth, offering a compact design while retaining strong holding capabilities.
• Ring Magnets: Doughnut-shaped magnets that create a strong magnetic field around their central hole, used in speakers, motors, and magnetic couplings.

Will They Lose Their Strength Over Time?

Neodymium magnets (NdFeB) are permanent magnets that can be susceptible to high temperatures and become demagnetised. Over a 10 year period the loss in magnetic power would be un-noticeable.

Neodymium Magnets (Rare Earth Magnets) vs Ferrite Magnets (Ceramic Magnets)

While both neodymium and ferrite magnets are widely used, they differ significantly in their properties and applications.

Strength:

• Neodymium Magnets: Offer significantly higher magnetic strength, allowing for smaller, more powerful designs.
• Ferrite Magnets: Provide weaker magnetic fields compared to neodymium, requiring larger sizes for equivalent performance.

Size:

• Neodymium Magnets: Due to their high strength, they can be made much smaller for the same magnetic force.
• Ferrite Magnets: Require larger dimensions to achieve comparable magnetic strength, limiting their use in space-constrained applications.

Cost:

• Neodymium Magnets: Generally more expensive due to the rare earth materials and complex manufacturing processes.
• Ferrite Magnets: Offer a more cost-effective solution, making them suitable for high-volume applications.

Temperature Resistance

• Neodymium Magnets: Have lower temperature resistance, losing strength at higher temperatures.
• Ferrite Magnets: Exhibit better temperature stability, maintaining performance in high-temperature environments.

Corrosion Resistance

• Neodymium Magnets: Are prone to corrosion and require protective coatings.
• Ferrite Magnets: Offer excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for outdoor and harsh environments.

Brittleness/Durability:

• Neodymium Magnets: Are more brittle and susceptible to chipping or breaking.
• Ferrite Magnets: Are more durable and resistant to mechanical damage.

Applications:

• Neodymium Magnets: Used in high-performance applications such as motors, speakers, and medical devices.
• Ferrite Magnets: Commonly used in speakers, motors, and holding applications where cost and temperature stability are critical.

Avoid Common Mistakes when Buying Strong Magnets

When purchasing rare earth magnets, be aware of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid Overspecifying: Select a magnet with the appropriate strength for your application, excessively strong magnets can increase costs and making handling more challenging.
• Consider Coatings: Choose magnets with suitable coatings, like nickel or epoxy, to prevent corrosion, especially in humid environments.
• Account for Temperature: Ensure the magnet's operating temperature matches your application's requirements to maintain consistent performance.

Applications of Neodymium Magnets

Due to their exceptional strength and compact size, neodymium magnets are integral to numerous industrial applications:

• Manufacturing and Automation: Strong magnets provide precise part handling in robotic grippers and automated assembly lines. Magnetic separators using rare earth magnets remove ferrous contaminants from production lines, ensuring product purity.
• Aerospace and Automotive: High-performance motors and generators in electric vehicles and aircraft depend on neodymium magnets for their power density. Magnetic sensors using these magnets offer accurate feedback in critical systems.
• Energy and Power Generation: Wind turbines and generators utilise powerful neodymium magnets to maximise energy output from compact designs. These earth magnets are essential for creating efficient electric motors and generators.
• Industrial Lifting and Holding: Heavy-duty lifting neodymium magnets are often used in material handling. Magnetic clamping systems with strong magnets provide secure workholding in machining and welding.
• Electronics and Telecommunications: Neodymium magnets are crucial in designing compact speakers, actuators, and sensors in electronic devices. These magnets are utilised in data storage and telecommunications equipment for their stable magnetic fields.

Your Trusted Neodymium Magnets Supplier & Manufacturer

RS is a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality neodymium magnets in Australia, catering to diverse industrial and commercial needs. We offer a comprehensive range of rare earth magnets for sale in various shapes and grades. Shop using our convenient filters and buy strong magnets from brands like Eclipse and more.

For more information on delivery across Australia, please visit our delivery page.