Types of magnets
Apr 1, 1999 12:00 PM, SOUND & VIDEO CONTRACTOR STAFF
Alnico magnets: The Alnico magnet is composed of aluminum, nickel and cobalt, and consequently, it is relatively strong and stable. Alnico is beneficial for high-heat applications, but it is susceptible to demagnetization. Cobalt became expensive in the '70s due to a limited world supply, which is what prompted many manufacturers to switch to ceramic materials.
Ceramic Magnets: The Ceramic magnet is rigid and brittle, but it does provide good performance and economy. Ceramic magnets are resistant to demagnetization, making them useful in high-power applications.
Rare earth magnets Neodymium and samarium cobalt magnets offer the highest energy magnetic fields available in permanent magnets. These are ideal for applications that require high energy but are space limited. These magnets offer a weight savings in the design process, but due to their lack of mass, they can be difficult to cool.
Neodymium iron boron (NeFeB): This material is extremely strong, has a high resistance to demagnetization, and although it is relatively expensive, its high energy output makes it extremely cost effective. These are used in many demanding assembly and industrial applications where price is a concern.
Samarium cobalt (SmCo): Samarium cobalt is also extremely strong and has high resistance to demagnetization, but the material is more stable than neodymium and therefore more useful in high temperature applications (250degrees Celsius to 300degrees Celcius). Samarium cobalt is ideal for applications where temperature fluctuates over a wide range.
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