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Continue ShoppingNeodymium magnets, Samarium Cobalt magnets, AlNiCo magnets and Ceramic magnets are all types of magnets. They are composed of materials which, once given a magnetic charge, will retain their magnetism for years.
Not all permanent magnets are the same. Many magnets can be used for many things. How to select the right material for my application?
Each magnetic material has unique features resulting in specific advantages and disadvantages for a given application. So, which one to choose from?
Let's talk about each their pros and cons
Neodymium is the strongest magnet available (roughly 10 times higher than ceramic magnets). It is also less expensive that Samarium Cobalt material due to its composition (an alloy made of neodymium (Nd), iron (Fe) and boron (B)).
Pros: Strongest material with medium cost
However, it doesn't have the high heat resistance or corrosion resistance of Samarium Cobalt, which could exclude it from use in certain applications. Neodymium magnets are also very brittle and will crack under stress.
Cons: Maximum operating temperature (grade N42) is 80°C/176°F and very brittle.
Other features:
Samarium Cobalt alloy has high strength, a good corrosion resistance and high operating temperature needed in many applications.
Pros: High operating temperature, high strength for his weight
However, since it contains cobalt, it is more expansive than other materials. You may want to consider using this alloy for applications where performance requirements outweigh cost.
Cons : High cost
Other features:
Aluminum-Nickel-Cobalt (AlNiCo) alloy uses less cobalt than Samarium Cobalt, making it more affordable. The best option for high heat applications.
Pros: Low cost alloy with highest operating temperature
Since the AlNico alloy is not as strong as the other magnet materials, it will require a larger size magnet in order to obtain suitable performance.
Cons: Low strength
Other features:
Hard ferrite magnet, commonly called ceramic magnet, are the first generation of permanent magnets. They provide low-cost solutions with high corrosion resistance.
Pros: Low cost, Corrosion resistant
Since these magnets are extremely brittle, machining requires diamond tooling and limits the final product to simple shapes.
Cons: Very brittle
Other features:
If you need a strong permanent magnet and you are not limited with the maximum operating temperature your best option would be our neodymium magnets. We have a large selection of shapes in stock available for next business day delivery.
In the case you would need a magnet with a higher operating temperature such as the Samarium Cobalt or AlNiCo magnets please contact our magnet specialists and they will provide you with more informations.
As for hard ferrite or ceramic magnets, we carry a few of them in stock. If you cannot find the hard ferrite magnet you are looking for, contact us and we will see how we could help you with your requirement.
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