Neodymium magnets, the strongest rare-earth permanent magnets, are widely used in various industries, because of their versatile applications as well as their ability to resist demagnetization at a very high level. A rare-earth magnet is created by using rare-earth chemical elements taken from the official periodic table. Keep in mind that you can’t weld or solder these magnets, as heat will lead to their demagnetization and set them on fire.
These magnets lose very little amount of their magnetic strength over the years, which is approx. 1% in every ten years. Now, this article covers some questions which are frequently asked on the topic of neodymium magnets. They are as follows:-
- Can I perform any kind of machining action upon neodymium magnets?
Due to the brittle and hard nature of neodymium magnets, it is recommended not to perform any kind of machining action like drilling, cutting, welding, etc. on them. Machining of these magnets can damage, demagnetize or break them, because of very high pressure and heat. Cracking or chipping can occur in these magnets on machining. However, you can coarsely ground these magnets, if a substantial quantity of suitable coolant is used.
- Why do we have to control temperature in case of neodymium magnets?
Neodymium magnets have very high sensitivity when it comes to heat. On the basis of their grades, they will get demagnetized by heat. If we take the example of the magnet which is graded as N40, then we can see that the temperature of 80⁰C, or more than that, demagnetizes it and reduces its strength.
- Why do we coat neodymium magnets?
Neodymium magnets, also known as Neo, NdFeB or NIB magnets are made up of Iron, Neodymium and Boron. Air exposure as well as salt water leads to the rust formation on magnets, because of the presence of iron in them. Hence, in order to avoid oxidation and corrosion of the magnets, coatings like, tin, gold, zinc, epoxy, silver and nickel are applied to them.
This also strengthens the brittle magnets, and has no effect upon their performance. A coating is chosen according to the preference of the company or magnets’ features and applications.
- What are the applications of neodymium magnets?
There are various applications of neodymium magnets in various fields such as industry, health and medicine, science, education and even, household purposes. So, you don’t have to worry if your household appliances like ovens, stoves, microwaves or refrigerators will get damaged by putting these magnets on them.
- How do we manufacture neodymium magnets?
Iron, Neodymium and Boron are mixed together in their respective powdered forms. This mixture is converted into molds by applying a huge amount of pressure on it. Then, sintering process is used to heat the material in a vacuum. After that, the material is cooled down and sliced or ground, according to the shape desired by us.
- From where can I purchase neodymium magnets?
There are various reputable and reliable suppliers in the country from whom you can buy rare earth magnets like NdFeB, rubberized magnets, AlNiCo, Ferrite, SmCo, etc. These organizations manufacture custom magnets and supply them to both national as well as international markets. Also, they provide services for minimum purchase orders depending upon the payments made by clients.
